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School’s out for summer! We’re kicked off the kids’ summer break and hit the road on the last day of school to embark on our first ever camping trip in Texas.

We were avid campers when we lived in the Pacific Northwest, but have not had the opportunity to explore any Texas campsites since we’ve moved here until now.

Huntsville State Park, nestled in the Sam Houston National Forest, offers an idyllic setting for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. With its diverse range of activities, including fishing, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife, this state park is a perfect destination for families seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In this blog post, we will delve into the exciting activities and attractions that make Huntsville State Park a great getaway for families with kids.

 

Fishing Fun

Huntsville State Park boasts a great fishing dock accessible from the campsites via a short trail to tranquil lake that’s teeming with fish, making it an ideal spot for a family fishing expedition. Pack your fishing gear and enjoy some quality time with your kids on the water’s edge. Common catches include largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. Don’t forget to obtain a fishing license, available at the park office, and familiarize yourself with any size or bag limits. Engaging in this classic outdoor pastime is a fantastic way to teach your kids patience, the art of angling, and the importance of conservation.

 

Hiking Trails Galore

Exploring the beauty of nature through hiking is a must-do activity at Huntsville State Park. The park offers a variety of well-marked trails that cater to different skill levels, ensuring there’s something for everyone in the family. The Prairie Branch Loop Trail, for instance, is a beginner-friendly trail that winds through the park’s diverse ecosystems, offering glimpses of towering pine trees, peaceful meadows, and serene lake views. The Chinquapin Trail, a moderate-level hike, presents a slightly more challenging terrain and rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas along the way. Encourage your kids to become nature detectives as you discover unique plants, animal tracks, and hidden treasures during your hike.

Wildlife Encounters: Huntsville State Park is a sanctuary for a wide array of wildlife, presenting countless opportunities for your kids to marvel at nature’s wonders up close. Keep your eyes peeled for the park’s resident white-tailed deer, squirrels, and rabbits as they meander through the forest. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be delighted to spot an array of feathered friends, including woodpeckers, warblers, and even the elusive bald eagle. Remind your kids to observe these creatures from a respectful distance and to refrain from feeding them, as maintaining their natural behaviors is vital for their well-being.  We did see a couple of alligators in the lake so be sure to watch out and take precaution while in and on the lake!

 

Fun On The Lake

Huntsville State Park Boathouse rents canoes, kayaks and paddleboats by the hour, all day or overnight.

Huntsville State Park Boathouse rents canoes, kayaks and paddleboats by the hour, all day or overnight.

 

Our Campsite

We got lucky booking our campsite so late in the season as we got a really good site facing the lake with lots of trees.

Camping Delights: After an eventful day of fishing, hiking, and wildlife encounters, unwinding at one of Huntsville State Park’s campsites is the perfect way to cap off your adventure. The park offers a variety of camping options, from tent sites nestled in the shade of towering trees to RV sites with modern amenities. Gather around the campfire to share stories, roast marshmallows, and bask in the tranquility of the outdoors. Our kids enjoyed the simplicity of nature, stargazing, and simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance of our campsite.

Conclusion: Huntsville State Park is a family-friendly haven that offers an abundance of activities for kids and adults alike. From fishing escapades to invigorating hikes and memorable wildlife encounters, this Texas gem has it all. So, pack your camping gear, don your hiking boots, and embark on an adventure that will create cherished memories for the whole family. A trip to Huntsville State Park is a gateway to reconnecting with nature, fostering a sense of exploration, and creating a bond that will last a lifetime.

What are your favorite state parks and campsite in Texas?

 

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One of our favorite summer family traditions is to go camping, or car camping, or as I sometimes refer to it as glamping.

Every year since Jonah was born, we’ve always traveled to Deception Pass for its convenient location from Seattle, proximity to water and the scenic views. This year, I thought we’d try a different campground and state park to change things up, and explore more of our beautiful state. Another reason I sought out different accommodations was to have a more turn-key and convenient experience with our now mobile toddler. Setting up camp isn’t the easiest task, especially when you have an 18-month old who thinks anything that looks dangerous, sharp, or hot is fun. Enter cabin camping, not a new concept, but new for our family.  John loves to rough it and roughing it is what he does well and with ease via backpacking or car camping.

Up for the new experience, John agreed to the change in camping accommodations this year as long as I agreed not to pack as much glam (yeah right).

We booked a cabin at Camano Island State Park, just an hour and a half north of Seattle by car. Known for its rocky shoreline and beach, I always love camping by the water, not to mention the scenic drive and views of the surrounding mountains not too far from home.

 

Being that there are only five cabins at Camano Island State Park, I loved the idea of our campsite being more private, not crammed with too many neighbors, and the added convenience of not having to set up a tent! The cabin came furnished with beds, a refrigerator, freezer, microwave, chairs, and table, and a rolling cart for food prep. Some friends joined us for the weekend and were able to book the last cabin just across from ours. The kids freely explored around the cabin sites, trails, and rode around on their bikes and scooters while us parents relaxed and enjoyed lots of wine and beer by the fire.

 

There happened to be a boat festival down on the beach and the kids had the opportunity to craft their own wooden boats.

 

We ate well, drank well, explored the nature setting and spent time with good friends. Now that we’ve experienced cabin camping, I think this may be the route our family will take going forward.