Hiking and camping are always a good combination, even in Texas, which has some very challenging landscape and climate for both the hiker and camper. Throughout the Lone Star State many places abound for hiking or camping, including the scrub desert of the west and the thick swampy forest of the east. However, outdoor activities that incorporate both activities are more limited, but still cover some captivating countryside.
Packing In
Texas may not have a large number of offerings with its system of overnight backcountry campgrounds, but the few sites that the state does provide, consist of adventuresome walks through some fascinating west Texas canyon and mountain country. The best known trails can be found in Big Bend and Guadelupe National Parks, as well as Maple Canyon and Palo Duro--no backcountry camping--state parks.
Nature Trails
Some of the most stimulating short walks are provided by nature centers and arboretums, which are scattered throughout the state of Texas. Informative arboretums and botanical gardens can be found in Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Athens, Humble, Kerrville, Nacogdoches and Weslaco. One of the best times to visit these wooded retreats is in the early spring when the forests and fields are returning to life. An interpretative walk through a nature preserve at the hands of a trained naturalist can greatly add to the understanding of the natural environment of Texas.
When to Go
Since the summers in Texas are long and hot, most hikers should limit their outdoor activity to a short walk or perhaps a day at the beach. However, spring and fall in many parts of the state brings on a floral display that is quite colorful and prolific. Spring in the central Texas country prairie, when the bluebonnet blooms, is particular colorful, as are the autumn colors in a few remote canyons and rivers. For a colorful three- or four-day, fall hike try McKittrick Canyon in Guadelupe National Park, where the maple forest turns a fiery red, more reminiscent of the Ozarks or Smoky Mountains than anywhere in Texas.
Water
Hikers need to be very mindful of water and water quality, even in the humid eastern parts of the state. Day hikers need to be sure that each person in the party is carrying at least a half gallon for a day trip. Similar warnings should be heeded by backpackers, who need to know beforehand, if potable water is available at overnight campsites. Always check with a ranger about water availability before you depart. And always remember that strenuous summer hiking in the desert and canyon country is not advised, because of the extreme heat, which can easily exceed 100 degrees F.
Warnings
All campers need to be aware of possible encounters with poisonous snakes, reptiles, wild animals and insects. Death from snakebite is rare, but campers should be aware that the four major types of poisonous snakes do reside in the state. This includes the coral snake, copperhead, water moccasin and several types of rattlesnakes. Most snake incidents happen when someone inadvertently steps on a snake, so watch where you walk. Still the biggest problems may come from insects, especially in the hot and humid east.
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