Pack a picnic, lace up your walking shoes, and head outside. Explore parks with playgrounds, trails, open spaces, and beautiful scenery for every kind of adventure.

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Rio Vista Park

This is one of our favorite places to cool off during the summer. Families can swim, tube, picnic, or simply splash in the clear river while kids enjoy the open spaces. Bring water shoes and plan to stay a while.

555 Cheatham St, San Marcos, TX 78666

11th Street Park

This little park is a great place to stretch your legs after exploring downtown. Kids can burn off some energy on the playground while parents relax under the shade trees. It’s also right along the beautiful Medina River.

1102 Maple St, Bandera, TX 78003

Blanco State Park

This little state park may be small, but it’s one of our favorite places to spend a relaxing afternoon. Families can swim, fish, picnic, or simply enjoy the shade along the spring-fed Blanco River. It’s an easy stop when you want to slow down and enjoy the outdoors.

101 Park Road 23, Blanco, TX 78606

Bindseil Park

Located along the Blanco River, this peaceful park is a great place for a picnic, a short walk, or letting kids play near the water. The shady trees and open green space make it a relaxing break during a day of exploring town. Bring a blanket and enjoy the slower pace.

300 Pecan St, Blanco, TX 78606

Boerne City Lake Park

This local favorite is perfect for swimming, kayaking, fishing, or enjoying a picnic by the water. There’s plenty of room for kids to play, and the calm lake makes it especially inviting during the warmer months. It’s an easy place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

1 City Lake Rd, Boerne, TX 78006

Inks Lake State Park

Inks Lake is one of our favorite places for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and simply enjoying the outdoors. The calm water makes it especially family friendly, and the park offers plenty of hiking and picnic spots, too. If you’re looking for a relaxing day outside, this is a great choice.

3480 Park Road 4 W, Burnet, TX 78611

Pedernales Falls State Park

If your family loves the outdoors, Pedernales Falls is a must. The layered limestone waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and swimming areas make it easy to spend an entire day exploring. Bring water shoes and a picnic—you’ll probably want to stay awhile.

2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park

History comes alive at the boyhood home of President Lyndon B. Johnson. Families can tour historic buildings, learn about life in early Texas, and discover how Johnson City helped shape one of America’s presidents. It’s educational without feeling like a typical history lesson.

100 E Ladybird Ln, Johnson City, TX 78636

The Coming King Sculpture Prayer Garden

Whether you’re visiting for the views, the artwork, or a quiet moment, this hilltop garden is one of Kerrville’s most memorable stops. The massive sculptures and sweeping Hill Country scenery are impressive, even if you’re not visiting for religious reasons. It’s peaceful, beautifully landscaped, and completely free to explore.

520 Benson Dr, Kerrville, TX 78028

Louise Hays Park

This riverside park is one of Kerrville’s best gathering places for families. Kids can enjoy the playground while adults relax beneath the shade trees or stroll along the Guadalupe River. Throughout the year, it’s also home to concerts, festivals, and community events.

202 Thompson Dr, Kerrville, TX 78028

Riverside Nature Center

Nature-loving families will enjoy this small but charming center tucked along the river. Easy walking trails, butterfly gardens, native plants, and birdwatching opportunities make it a peaceful place to slow down. It’s an easy stop that pairs perfectly with a visit to Louise Hays Park.

150 Francisco Lemos St, Kerrville, TX 78028

Lakeside Park

This beautiful park sits right along Lake Marble Falls and has something for everyone. Kids love the playground and open grassy areas, while parents can relax under the shade or enjoy a picnic by the water. It’s a great place to slow down between activities.

305 Buena Vista Dr, Marble Falls, TX 78654

Hidden Falls Adventure Park

If your family enjoys off-road adventures, Hidden Falls is hard to beat. Hundreds of miles of trails welcome ATVs, UTVs, dirt bikes, and four-wheel-drive vehicles of every skill level. Even if you’re new to off-roading, rentals and guided experiences make it easy to join the fun.

7030 Ranch Rd 1431, Marble Falls, TX 78654

Kerrville-Schreiner Park

This large riverside park offers hiking trails, kayaking, fishing, camping, and plenty of room for kids to burn off energy. It’s one of our favorite outdoor spots in Kerrville if you want more than just a quick playground stop. Bring a picnic and plan to stay awhile.

2385 Bandera Hwy, Kerrville, TX 78028

Kerrville River Trail

Stretching along the Guadalupe River, this scenic trail is perfect for walking, biking, or simply enjoying the views. You’ll pass parks, bridges, public art, and plenty of places to stop and watch the water. It’s one of the easiest ways to experience the heart of Kerrville.

700 Thompson Dr, Kerrville, TX 78028

Bandera City Park & Playground

This riverside park is one of our favorite spots to relax in Bandera. The playground is perfect for younger kids, and the Medina River provides plenty of space for wading, skipping rocks, or simply enjoying the scenery. Pack a picnic if you have the time.

1102 Maple St, Bandera, TX 78003