West Texas Shines With Hidden Gems And Outdoor Adventures
Texas is such a large state that we can sometimes feel a little secluded from more populated cities, such as San Antonio, Dallas, and Houston. It is almost as if West Texas is its own little country within Texas.
Read More: Prepare For Adventure With Texas Camping Tips
Things To Do In West Texas
While West Texas may not offer the same variety of entertainment options as larger cities, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy. Here are a few noteworthy experiences to check out in West Texas that are sure to create unforgettable memories.
1.) McDonald Observatory
The McDonald Observatory is a world-renowned astronomical research facility owned and operated by the University of Texas at Austin. Since its establishment in 1933, it has housed multiple powerful telescopes, which play a key role in assisting with dark energy research and other stellar phenomena.
2.) Davis Mountains State Park
The Davis Mountains State Park offers unique and rugged, beautiful scenic scenes, trails, and amazing star-filled skies. Patrons can hike, camp, or stay at the iconic Indian Lodge. Built in the 1930s, it has stood the test of time and is a true gem of West Texas.
3.) Fort Davis National Historic Site
The Fort Davis National Historic Site is one of the best surviving military frontier outposts from the Indian Wars era. Active from 1854 to 1891, it protected travelers and mail couriers who were traveling along the main route between El Paso and San Antonio.
4.) Monahans Sandhills State Park
The Monahans Sandhills State Park offers a plethora of unique opportunities to enjoy some West Texas sandhills. Visitors can hike, camp, ride horses, or ride ATVs on unmarked trails or sand dunes that can reach up to a height of 70 feet.
5.) Balmorhea State Park
The Balmorhea State Park is home to one of the world's largest spring-fed swimming pools. It is filled with exceedingly clear water from the Solomon Spring. Built in the 1930s, the park offers swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
These are only a handful of exceptional places you can visit while living, working, or simply passing through West Texas. Any one of these gems is sure to make a memorable experience that can easily last a lifetime.
LOOK: Here's What’s Going on at the West Texas Fair & Rodeo
LOOK: This Is What Happens When Stung By A West Texas Bee
Gallery Credit: Rudy Fernandez