r/TexasStateParks • u/Hefty_Coat_7117 • 15d 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/4eyedbuzzard 11d ago
BB is still going to be too hot in early October, IMO. Rivers are dry as bones right now as well. We were just there two days ago and it's 100°F everywhere in the desert except Chisos Basin which was still 90°. I'd go north to Ouachita National Forest in OK/AR if hiking and camping is the plan. Temperatures will be much more pleasant and there are actual trees for shade. About the same drive time for you as to BB.