Sheldon Lake State Park

With a multitude of parks and outdoor activities, Houston can be a great place for the outdoor enthusiast to explore. Winter can be an especially great time to get outside and enjoy the sunny weather while beating the summer heat and humidity. For those looking for more elevated adventures, there are several state parks within driving distance that capture the natural beauty of the region. Visit any (or all) of the parks below to escape the city and catch some breathtaking views. 

Brazos Bend State Park 
This state park offers traditional park ventures such as hiking and birding and is also located on a lake, allowing for unique water activities such as boating and fishing and wildlife sightings that include alligators, oh my! Located just 45 miles from downtown Houston, Brazos Bend Park’s proximity makes it perfect for a day trip or weekend-long camping outing. 

Galveston Island State Park 
The next time you head south to Galveston for some much-needed island time, make a stop at Galveston Island State Park. Here, you will enjoy the crashing of ocean waves amongst coastal birds and wildlife. Although this is the perfect spot to simply relax, you can also get your exercise on in various ways such as mountain biking or paddling. Weather the ocean or bay is your preference, this park has both coasts for you to enjoy! 

Huntsville State Park 
Marvel in 21 miles of beauty and the majestic trees of the East Texas Pineywoods at Huntsville State Park in the Same Houston National Forrest. Also located on a lake, Huntsville State Park offers a wide array of things to do such as renting canoes, kayaks and paddle boats, picnicking and geocaching.

Lake Livingston State Park 
With well-manicured trails and gorgeous scenery, it’s clear why people continue to make Livingston State Park a destination to relax and unwind. With recently renovated sites, this park is known for its cleanliness, quality service, spaciousness and unbeatable sunsets. Although popular, the park is still quiet and serene. Plan in advance and book a reservation prior to visiting this beloved state park. 

Sheldon Lake State Park & Learning Center 
This 2,800-acre outdoor education and recreation park is just a half hour from downtown Houston and has activities for the entire family to join. With no entry fee and a public fishing lake with no license required, this is a great spot for a spontaneous outing. This green and blue oasis is home to several animals and plant species. Come experience nature’s beauty and an abundance of wildlife on the edge of one of the country’s largest cities! 

Stephen F. Austin State Park 
Stephen F. Austin State Park is another park to add to your list of places to visit. Along the miles of hiking and biking trails, you can expect to see several different species of birds, such as owls and yellow-billed cuckoos, as well as white-tailed deer, raccoons, opossums, armadillos, rabbits and squirrels. Planning a trip in the summer? Make sure to catch the fireflies as they put on a show just as it is getting dark from May through June. 

As you can see, Houston is not only great for fine dining and exciting nightlife, it’s also close to many unique outdoor hotspots. The nearby state parks are only a few of the staycation activities you have at your fingertips when you call Houston home. Click here for more ways to explore our region.