Over the past few months I’ve gone hiking almost every single weekend. I love the feeling of getting outdoors and pushing my body! Although I live in a somewhat flat terrain in College Station, TX I’ve found with traveling a few hours away I can get a completely different geographical setting. This post includes a mix of day hikes, aggressive backpacking and camping ideas for Fall travels. If you are looking for something laid back and shaded I would try Davy Crockett National Forest or Mission Tejas State Park where the El Camino Real begins and dates back to the late 1600’s when the Spanish settled in Texas. For more aggressive hikes try Lost Maples State Natural Area or Goodwater Loop and Trail which both offer stepper terrain! For a waterfall sighting Crockett Gardens in Goodwater Loop and Trail along with Riverplace Nature Trail in Austin both offer a pretty sighting. Below you will find a list and photographs of actual travels over the past few months designed to restore your love for nature in Texas!

Hill Country Preserve near Bandera, TX

Nestled between San Antonio and Bandera, the Hill Country Preserve is a grasslands area you can spend hours hiking. From rolling hills, to golden lit blades you’ll fall in love with this beautiful location. I’ve been there a few times and it’s always had very few visitors when I went. You can go off-roading, hiking and also take a scenic drive through the area. Stay on a local ranch using AirBnB while you visit the Cowboy Capital of Texas.

Monkey Rock at Lost Maples State Natural Area

Lost Maples State Park near Vanderpool, TX

Known for it’s fall foliage, this state park is absolutely breathtaking. It’s a moderate day hike and camping available. You can hike up the rocky hill on the East Trail and then back down to the river that runs through the park. It’s so pretty and I recommend bring plenty of water since it’s in a dry climate. Make sure to stop by and see Monkey Rock which really does look like a monkey! Also, it’s a pretty aggressive hike at certain points so be prepared to be sore the following day!

Crockett Gardens at Goodwater Loop and Trail

Goodwater Loop Trail in Georgetown, TX

This is a 28 mile loop with five campsites you can reserve. It’s the perfect location for a day hike or a full weekend of backpacking. Make sure you carve out time to see Crocket Gardens waterfall nestled off the trail on the southwest side of the loop. Great location for backpacking and has easy to moderate levels for hiking. You can camp at one of five campsites and hike around the loop. If you plan to do all 28 miles I recommend spending two nights at minimum. We managed to do half the loop in two days with our backpacks.

Riverplace Nature Trail in Austin, TX

Nestled in the rolling hills of Austin, TX this trail has a moderate level and is a beautiful day hike. Easy to access but I will warn you the hills are steep! It’s not a typical loop so when you plan your route be prepared to have to turn around and take an equal distance back to your car. The trails are easy to follow and run alongside a creek. There’s a waterfall to view and if you travel the entire trail you’ll reach a reservoir where you can sit in rocking chairs and overlook the water. Great option for feeling like you are in a secluded area but next to a city!

Mission Tejas State Park near Grapeland, TX

Located in East Texas this park has the prettiest pine trees. The trails are wide and it’s the beginning of the El Camino Real. You’ll be able to start with viewing historic sites dating back to when the spaniards visited texas in the late 1600s. The trail is shaded most of the 8.5 miles and has a beautiful creek running through it.

Mineral Wells State Park near Ft. Worth, TX

Nestled next to the most beautiful small town of Mineral Wells this state park offers camping, swimming, boating and a 6 mile loop to hike. There’s plenty do at this campground and you can rent out shelters instead of tent camping. Easily swim in the lake near, go fishing, take a long hike and build a campfire at this location. One of the coolest parts of this trip was seeing the tiny wildflowers that were shaped like little purple pineapples.

Davy Crockett National Forest near Kennard, TX

This National Forest is filled with miles and miles of Piney Woods. It’s located North of Houston about two hours and south of Marshall, TX by an hour. You can go offroading, hiking and there’s camping available. The area is filled with shade and there are a few lookout points where you can get a decent vantage point.

Whether you are looking for an aggressive hike or a backpacking adventure there’s something on the list for everyone. Make sure to wear a good pair of hiking shoes and a backpack. I also like to wear a good spf like this one! It’s got a very light scent and can be worn with or without makeup. Snacks like packets of almond butter, energy bars and protein shakes are a good idea to bring. Finally, don’t forget to stay hydrated and drink electrolytes! What are some of your favorite places to hike? I’d love to hear your recommendations!