HOUSTON – Hey there, fellow adventurers! As winter fades away and the flowers begin to bloom, spring in Texas is the perfect time for families to venture out and explore. As a mom on a mission to ensure maximum fun during our travels, here’s my round-up of the coolest spring nature destinations in the Lone Star State.
Santa Ana National Refuge
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Lush trails, chasing after colorful birds, and crossing a tree bridge for the ultimate bird’s eye view awaits you at the Santa Ana National Refuge! It’s like stepping into a real-life nature documentary, and trust me, your little adventurers will be buzzing with excitement.
- Distance from Houston: 5 hours
- Admission: Daily passes are $5 per vehicle and yearly passes are $10 per vehicle. The first Sunday of every month is FREE!
Llano River State Park
Who’s up for a splash-tastic adventure? Head on over to the Llano River, where the water’s cool and the vibes are even cooler! Head to the visitor center and pick your kids up a FREE junior ranger explorer pack, packed with goodies to conquer the great outdoors. From floating down the river to casting a line for the catch of the day, there’s no shortage of fun to be had.
- Distance from Houston: 5 hours
- Admission: Adults are $5 daily. Children 12 years and under are free. Camping is between $10 - $20.
Rockport Beach
Rockport Beach is your ticket to sun-soaked bliss and sandy shenanigans. Managed by Blue Wave Beaches, this slice of paradise boasts squeaky-clean sands and low tide waters for every swimmer to enjoy.
- Distance from Houston: 3 hours
- Admission: $10 daily or $40 annual vehicle parking fee.
Comal River
Grab your tubes, slap on some sunscreen, and prepare for a tubing adventure like no other. With gentle currents and heart-pounding tube chutes, it’s the perfect blend of chill vibes and adrenaline rushes. The Comal River is known for its shorter float and calmer waters making it perfect for families.
- Distance from Houston: 3 hours
- Admission: Expect to spend $15-22 per person, including shuttle, tube rental, and parking fees.
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Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center
Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center is a haven of adventure and tranquility. Surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery, you are transported to a world where time slows down and nature takes center stage. Through hands-on activities like nature walks, guided photography grotto hikes and star gazing, there is something for everyone to relax and enjoy the serenity of the environment.
- Distance from Houston: 3 hours
- Admission: Varies based on tours between $5 - $50.
So, grab your crew, pack your sense of adventure (and some sunscreen), and get ready to make memories that’ll last a lifetime. When it comes to family fun in Texas, the sky’s the limit!
Have other spots your family loves to visit in the spring in Texas? Share your favorites in the comments section below!