List: Enjoy the great outdoors this holiday season with festive events at Texas State Parks

TEXAS, USA — As temps cool down around the state, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is encouraging families to explore the outdoors this holiday season.

Texas State Parks are hosting different seasonal activities for the entire family to enjoy, including themed guided walks, crafting events and more.

The TPWD highly encourages anyone planning a trip to a Texas State Park to reserve their day pass in advance since some parks are expected to reach their capacity limit.

You can reserve day passes here or by calling 512-389-8900.

Preregistration is required for some events.

November Events at Texas State Parks

• Dutch Oven Friendsgiving

  • Nov. 26, 2–3 p.m.
  • Lake Corpus Christi State Park
  • Learn about Dutch oven cooking and taste Thanksgiving-inspired dishes prepared using a camp-style Dutch oven.

• Turkey Craft Activity

  • Nov. 28, 10–11 a.m.
  • Fort Parker State Park (Group Pavilion)
  • Create a turkey craft to take home for your holiday dinner. Supplies are provided.

• Black Friday Outdoors

  • Nov. 29
  • Various state parks
  • Skip the shopping and enjoy outdoor activities at multiple state parks. Walk off Thanksgiving calories and embrace the fresh air.

• Christmas at the Sauer-Beckmann Farm

  • Nov. 30, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
  • Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site
  • Experience how early Texans prepared for Christmas. Learn to string popcorn, make cedar wreaths and dip candles at this living history event.

December Events at Texas State Parks

• Corn Husk Crafts

  • Dec. 1, 10–11 a.m.
  • Goliad State Park and Historic Site
  • Create traditional corn husk dolls or angels in this family-friendly crafting event.

• Holiday Card Painting Workshop

  • Dec. 7, 1–3 p.m.
  • Palo Duro Canyon State Park
  • Learn to paint custom holiday cards in a fun and relaxing setting, perfect for artists of all levels.

• Campfire Christmas Stories

  • Dec. 7, 6–7 p.m.
  • Martin Creek Lake State Park (Twin Oak Amphitheater)
  • Sit by a cozy campfire and enjoy classic Christmas stories with a Texas twist. Bring a chair or blanket and dress for the weather.

• Boxing Day Bird Walk

  • Dec. 26, 9–10:30 a.m.
  • Galveston Island State Park
  • Join a guided bird walk on the beach to spot winter wildlife, suitable for all levels of birdwatchers.

• Snowman Craft Without Snow

  • Dec. 28, 2–3 p.m.
  • Fort Boggy State Park (Gazebo)
  • Learn to make a snowman without snow in this fun and creative activity. Registration is required.