Southern Texas is a land of surprising contrasts and its no secret as to why thousands of people flock here in the winter. From the Hill Country--hills with rivers and broad vistas--to the pine forests and to the coast, there are many activities of many kinds to explore. Urban centers like Houston or San Antonio also have their share of recreational activities.
Ride the Guadalupe River
The Guadalupe River from Canyon Lake to New Braunfels is one of the most popular places to go rafting anywhere. Campgrounds line the river, and tube, raft and canoe outfitters are just as plentiful. There are other rivers and other places to go rafting, but this is a good one.
You may rent a tube or raft from an outfitter, or take a group ride organized by one of the outfitters. The water is relatively swift, but not deep or dangerous. The Comal River branches off and goes into the town where there are water parks.
Some of the campgrounds combine the best of both if they happen to have riverfront property, and many do. You may rent and ride tubes from your campground along the river.
Windsurfing
San Padre Island National Seashore is the longest barrier island in North America, and the recreational opportunities here are endless. One option is windsurfing, which is essentially attaching a sail to a surfboard and riding in the surf or on the water. Unless you are experienced, you will need lessons, but there are several outfitters who give lessons and rent equipment.
The website Worldwinds.com says the half mile beach near Laguna Madre is one of the top windsurfing areas in the United States. The coast of Texas goes for hundreds of miles to Houston and beyond.
Hunting
Hunting, especially for whitetail deer, is a huge business in southern Texas. There are many wildlife management areas where there is public hunting. Outfitters are also available who will take you on a guided hunt. You have more freedom with public hunting, but you may have a better chance at bagging a deer if you don't know the area with an outfitter.
There are hunting seasons for guns, antique guns and archery. Licenses are required of everyone to hunt in Texas.
Private land owners often lease part of their land for hunting during the various seasons.
Lakes
There are many lakes in Texas, and fishing is a huge part of what happens from a recreation standpoint, but there are many options. Many lakes are stocked with Walleye, Bass, Crappie and other fish. Fishing with boats, from piers or from the bank are the most common means. You may also fish at any of the Texas state parks without a license in a free fishing program.
Canoeing, kayaking, and swimming areas are at most lakes around the state. Many of these lakes have trails as well for hiking or biking.
Trails
There are many types of trails in Texas, and for just about any type of travel. The cattle drive is the most famous, and you may trace the Chisolm Trail from south Texas all the way to the Kansas City stockyards. The Sante Fe Trail, along with old railroad and canal areas, are being used again as trails for biking and hiking. State parks and national wildlife areas also have trails of long and short variety.
Timing
Timing can play a huge role in having an enjoyable vacation in Southern Texas. Summers can be very hot, and very humid along the coast. Winters are very mild and comfortable. The best time to go to southern Texas is in the spring or fall, because it is not as hot and the crowds are either not there yet, or have left.
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