Stephen F. Austin Campground

Stephen F. Austin State Park’s close proximity to Houston makes it a great mountain biking getaway. Whether you come for the afternoon or set up camp for the week, some of your best memories will be made on the trail. Head down the Brazos Bottom Trail for some pristine scenery, and stop by the Brazos River to cool off. Or jump on the Barred Owl Trail, which will lead you to a scenic overlook, where you’ll be unable to resist a selfie with the mighty Brazos River.

Primitive fishing can be done from the riverbank, but you’ll likely only catch catfish. But hey, what’s wrong a relaxing day by the shore?

It’s hard to pick the wrong trail at Stephen F. Austin State Park. Routes range from easy to very easy, so you won’t be faced with many steep climbs out here. But you will find miles and miles of primitive bottomland and hardwood forest, all teeming with wildlife. Expect to be awed the power of the Brazos River and the beauty of the scenery. Short nature trails are great for kids, or for those eager to learn a little more about the flora and fauna.

The best place to spot the wild creatures of Stephen F. Austin State Park is the wildlife viewing station, where you’ll see Pileated Woodpeckers, armadillos, and white-tailed deer. The viewing station is at the end of the Cottonwood Trail, though plenty of diverse wildlife and birdlife can be spotted from any of the trails that meander through the hardwoods and old-growth forests.