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Top 7 Texas State Parks for Summer Recreational Activities

By Danno Wise, About.com

Texas offers visitors and residents plenty of summer recreational activities. Those wishing to spend time outdoors have plenty of options, including dozens of state parks which offer visitors an opportunity to do everything from swimming to scuba diving, water skiing to mountain biking.

1. Garner State Park

Located on the Frio River in Concan, Garner State Park is one of Texas' most popular summer getaways. Whether it's swimming, fishing, paddling, or tubing, most visitors to Garner find a way to get on or in the water. However, there are also "dry" activities such as miniature golf, birding, nature trails, hiking and more.

2. Galveston Island State Park

The 2,000 acre Galveston Island State Park features beach and bay access, nature and hiking trails, a boat ramp, campsites with water and electricity and more.

3. Devil's River State Natural Area

Located just north of Del Rio on Texas' famed Devil's River, the Devil's River State Natural Area offers a variety of outdoor activities in a remote setting. Canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, fishing and swimming are just few of the many activities available.

4. Blanco State Park

Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Blanco State Park is one of the smaller state parks in Texas. However, what Blanco SP lacks in acreage, it makes up for in charm and user-friendly ammenities, including camp sites, swimming areas, and excellent access for fishing and paddle sports.

5. Lake Whitney State Park

The clear, deep waters of Lake Whitney in north central Texas are as inviting as they are scenic. Swimming, fishing, boating, water skiing and scuba diving are among the most popular recreational activites at Lake Whitney State Park.

6. Mustang Island State Park

Mustang Island State Park includes five miles of beachfront and offers visitors fishing, camping, beachcombing, swimming, surfing, birding, and other outdoor recreation options.

7. Lake Casa Blanca International State Park

Located right in the center of Laredo, one of Texas’ most impressive border cities, Lake Casa Blanca International State Park offers a wide array of outdoor activities for visitors and residents alike. The park offers a variety of both land-based and watersport activities, with the central attraction being the 1,650-acre Lake Casa Blanca.

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