Passport to Texas

Spring Break: Camping at a state park with the family.

Spring Break: Family Fun Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

Spend time with the family outdoors this spring break.

I believe it’s very important for families to spend time outdoors. Especially in the metropolitan areas, (where) people aren’t able
to fully experience nature in a natural setting.

Doug Huggins works with state parks in the Houston area, but when we spoke, he worked at Bastrop State Park. Parks buffer visitors from the hubbub of city life.

16—It’s a good place to see nature; to look at the flora and fauna, and get out of the city and feel like you’re away from it all… and you can leave all the hustle, bustle and business behind, and slow down for a little while to think about what’s going on right here right now.

Spring break can be sunny and warm or cold and wet; whatever the weather you can enjoy the Texas outdoors. If an overnight stay is in your future, and the weather warrants, consider cabins—like those at Bastrop State Park.

20—They’re nice and cozy. They also have heaters and they have fire rings outside so you can have fires and roast marshmallows and make s’mores. It’s a great place to spend time with the family; and in the winter time we still have some people that come out who take advantage of the bluebird days when it’s mild and the sun is out, to look at what winter residents we have at the park.

Find a link to state park information and reservations at passporttotexas.org

That’s our show… Funding provided in part by Ram Trucks. Guts. Glory. Ram

For Texas Parks and Wildlife…I’m Cecilia Nasti.

Time outdoors makes families healthier, happier and smarter — because Life’s Better Outside.

Recreation: Healthier, Happier, Smarter Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

There’s big push to get children outdoors. But kids aren’t the only ones who benefit from fresh air and sunshine. Survey says: Adults of all ages—as well as the kiddos—can achieve a better quality of life by committing to spending time in the wide open spaces…as well as the forested spaces…or watery spaces… Education and outreach director, Nancy Herron, shares some thoughts.

40— When you spend time outdoors you can be healthier, happier and smarter.

Those are some big claims there, Nancy. What do we mean by that?

Actually there is a lot of research that’s out there that shows that people of all ages actually do have benefits from being outside in nature, and that does include improvements to your health, your stress level, your sense of self esteem and confidence. Even being more cooperative. Can you believe that? Communities are more cooperative; families bond better in the out of doors. These are interesting things that we now know that we took for granted, and we just didn’t realize. That there’s a whole bevy of benefits from being outdoors.

Get healthier… happier…and smarter in the New Year when you spend time outdoors. Because, Life’s Better Outside…and so are you.

Happy New Year from Texas Parks and Wildlife and all of us at Passport to Texas …I’m Cecilia Nasti.

Camping with the Family

Recreation: Maximizing Your Camping Experience Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

This is Passport to Texas

It’s fall camping season, and Robert Owen with the Texas Outdoor Family program says if you keep the following suggestions in mind, you’ll have a great time on your next campout.

57—Plan ahead for your activities. Make sure you have a good pair of comfortable shoes to go along with your weekend; while you’re spending time on the trail you’ll want to keep your feet comfortable.

And also [bring some] binoculars – the winter months provide great opportunities for bird watching at Texas State Parks, and wildlife watching as well.

Would you say that going to texasstateparks.org is a good place for people to begin their camping trip?

Absolutely. It’s broken down into a map view, so you can find a park that’s nearby home or if you’re looking for a reason to get out and explore someplace new. It will tell you all about what the park has to offer; you can check out the park map there, and get a feel for what each campsite may offer. And, there may be a schedule of interpretive activities as well.

Thanks, Robert.

That’s our show for today. .. Funding provided in part by Ram Trucks. Guts. Glory. Ram

For Texas Parks and Wildlife…I’m Cecilia Nasti.

Camping at Inks Lake

Camping: Texas Outdoor Families Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

Longer nights and cooler temperatures make fall an ideal time for overnight camping at a Texas State Park. But if you’re new to the activity and don’t know a tent flap from a flap jack, the Texas Outdoor Family program can help.

05—We provide them some gear and get them a little more comfortable before they actually get out there and do it on their own.

Lindsay Carter is a Park Ranger with the Texas Outdoor Family program. During weekend workshops, rangers and volunteers teach families how to set up camp and get comfortable with the gear. Then there are activities.

14—We love having planned activities for them, which is, of course, not required – but stuff that they can do if they want to hang out with us. Kayaking, geocaching, fishing, outdoor cooking…things like this. We like to have a lot of activities to keep them busy while they’re out there.

Up to six peopek per family can sign up for a one or two night workshop. It’s $65 for one-night workshops and $85 for two-night workshops. TOF provides the tents and cooking gear…

10—We ask that they bring groceries that they would like for the weekend. Sleeping bags. Pillows. We have a list on our website of things to bring. But, basically, that’s it.

Texas Outdoor Family workshops take place throughout the state beginning this month. Visit the Texas Outdoor Family page at texasstateparks.org to find one close to you.

For Texas Parks and Wildlife, I’m Cecilia Nasti.

Family Camping in Texas

Camping: Affordable Family Fun Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

Before the school bell rings for the fall semester (it’s closer than you think) gather the family for a camping getaway—or two. With parks in every region of Texas, your destination is only a short drive away.

Most state parks have campgrounds, and some of those have water and electric hook-ups. Several parks also accommodate RVs for those who wish to bring the comfort of home with them to the great outdoors. Before hitting the road, though, check to see if RV connections
are available at your chosen park’s campsites.

For the pampered camper, check out state parks that offer cabins and lodges. Historic landmarks and secluded ranches make for a relaxing getaway.

When tent camping, remember to properly dispose of food waste to discourage unwanted animals visitors; and always pack out what you pack in.

Another reminder: you are not just a visitor, you are part of the natural world, and as such, it is your responsibility to keep it healthy and inviting to others. Play nice.

If you’ve never been camping before, and feel somewhat unprepared for what’s ahead, go on and sign up for one of our Texas Outdoor Family workshops. TPW staff will school your family on outdoor basics in a fun-filled weekend. Class is in session.

Find more outdoor opportunities at texasstateparks.org.

That’s our show for today… Funding provided in part by Ram Trucks. Guts. Glory. Ram…

For Texas Parks and Wildlife…I’m Cecilia Nasti