Dancing with the Stars | Now Open: Indian Lodge + Devils River | How to Handle Heat | Chill Out Video | & More!

Reservations | Find a Park | Activities | More

How to Have a Stellar Summer

Stargazing is a cool way to get outside in summer. You'll find less light pollution in state parks than in town, and a better view of the cosmos. On summer nights you can star bathe with the Milky Way, the Perseids Meteor Shower, planets and more.

To get to know the night sky, attend star parties at your parks. Consider getting a star-map app to help I.D. what you see.

Some parks are so dark they're considered International Dark Sky Parks. See what the night sky can look like in different parks in the Texas Parks & Wildlife magazine's beautiful photo essay State Parks by Night.

Now Open: Devils River Unit & Indian Lodge

The Dan A. Hughes Unit at Devils River State Natural Area is now open. Find out more in our magazine story New Devils River Unit Set to Open in 2025. And don't miss the Devils River episode of our new podcast Better Outside.

Reservations are required to visit Devils River SNA. Reserve passes online or by calling customer service before you visit.

Woman gazing off balcony at Indian Lodge

The iconic hotel in Davis Mountains State Park, Indian Lodge, recently reopened. It had a makeover: new AC, landscaping, pool facelift and more.

The onsite Black Bear Restaurant (yes, they're seen around the lodge!) also got a makeover. Get all the details in our magazine article Indian Lodge Restored and Refreshed.

Tips to Help You Handle the Heat

Summer in Texas is hot, y'all – especially in the sun. But don't let that stop you from safely enjoying your parks. Keep these tips top of mind to help you keep your cool:

Hydrate – Drink 16 oz. of water every hour.
Stay Salty – Eat salty snacks to replace salt lost to sweating.
Dress Smart – Wear a wet bandana around your neck, a hat and loose, breathable clothing.
Pup Safety – Offer your dog water, snacks and shade breaks regularly. Be aware of hot trails and rocks – paws can blister.

Find more tips on how to handle the heat in our press release 7 Heat Safety Tips to Protect You From the Texas Summer Heat. Find out how to protect your pets in our video Heat Safety for Dogs.

Chill Out Video: Lake Whitney in Summer

Relax for a couple of minutes as you enjoy the dragonflies, butterflies, quiet campsites and calm waters of Lake Whitney. Watch as the park slips gracefully from day into night in our video of Lake Whitney in summer.

Summer Fun = Playing GOSH!

If you like treasure hunts, Texas and taking selfies, you'll enjoy the Great Outdoor Scavenger Hunt (GOSH).

There are 6 Texas regions to explore, with a state park challenge in every region. Play to win prizes from Texas State Parks, Whole Earth Provision Co., Texas Historical Commission and Families in Nature.

Check out the rules and rewards of the game, then join us in playing GOSH! this summer – it's fun for all ages!

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