State Park Getaways - July 2017

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department sent this bulletin at 07/12/2017 10:50 AM CDT

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Schedule a Stellar Evening

Parks are perfect for stargazing because their night skies are darker than those over cities and towns. This summer is the perfect time for sky-watching and photography because:

Perseid meteor shower peaks Aug. 12
solar eclipse occurs Aug. 21
International Space Station passes by regularly
star parties are happening at state parks

The darker the sky, the more celestial objects you'll see – and some parks are darker than others. Like South Llano River, which was certified as an International Dark Sky Park this year. Check out this list of the 14 darkest parks.

If you plan to capture the night sky with a camera, you'll be inspired by this award-winning video about a Milky Way photography workshop (it's gorgeous!). Then take a look at these top 10 stargazing tips and you'll be ready for a star-studded summer.

Boating + Free Fishing = Fun

Fishing is a classic summer pastime and you can fish for free (without a license) at state parks. A variety of fishing events makes it fun, and borrowing fishing gear through the Tackle Loaner Program makes it easy. Just bring some bait, sunblock and your smile.

Inks Lake made this year's list of America's Best Family-Friendly Places to Fish and Boat. Other parks to visit for good fishing and boating include Goose Island on the coast and Cedar Hill by Dallas. Get on the water at a state park!

Paddling is a hot sport in parks, probably because almost anyone can do it. Give it a try! Many parks offer boat rentals. Galveston Island and Martin Dies, Jr. each boast 3 official Texas Paddling Trails. Get the hang of it, then try fishing while paddling.

New Guide Includes Pull-out Map

Pick up your free copy of the new Texas State Parks Official Guide at state parks and these locations. Or have a free copy mailed to you by taking the pledge to "Take Care of Texas." Inside the guide you'll find details about each park and a pull-out map showing all 95 parks.

The free State Parks Official Guide mobile app puts your parks system at your fingertips. Use it to find activities, lodging, RV sites and more. You can filter parks by your preferred amenities, then use the in-app map to locate them and get directions. Download it today!

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