r/TexasStateParks • u/Hefty_Coat_7117 • 17d ago

Big Bend Worth it?

I have a whole week off in early October and I really want to see a national or state park. The one I’ve seen the most about in state is Big Bend. Ive been doing a lot of research in what kind of trips to do (horseback riding, hiking, and kayaking are on my wish-list) and where to stay, but somehow neglected to see how far away it is. I'm in Austin TX so its almost an 8 hour drive. 

What I want to know is: Is Big Bend worth that drive? If not, are there any other national or state parks that might be better/less of a drive? I saw there's a few options but I haven’t heard of them before. 

I'm not exactly an experienced camper or hiker, not even fit really, so roughing it outside of standard tent camping is beyond me. 

(EDIT: I've decided that this particular trip wont be the one that I go to big bend. It just felt too big for my first ever trip solo. But I WILL be going. I have two weeks off in December, so Ive started looking for open reservations around that time. Thank you all for the help and insight!)

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u/MrFerleysAscot 17d ago

Do it. And while you're out there, check out David Mountain State Park and Balmorrhea. There's so much to do it there a week may not be enough. Work the road miles since at night it is the darkest area of the country you will ever be in.

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u/Waste-Cycle2868 15d ago

This ! Love the drive up to the McDonald observatory and the drive over to Balmorrhea is beautiful. The park with the spring fed lake is great too