7 Natural Wonders Unique To The Lone Star State That Should Be On Everyone's Texas Bucket List
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Katie Lawrence
Author
From the crystal-clear waters of Jacob’s Well to the rugged vastness of Big Bend, there are countless natural wonders in Texas that set our state apart from all others. These are seven of the very best, and each one deserves a spot on your bucket list — some even rank among the top natural wonders in the US! Are you ready to explore some of the most scenic places the Lone Star State has to offer?
Padre Island National Seashore, Texas, USA
The longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island on earth, Padre Island National Seashore consists of 66 miles of pristine South Texas coastline. From swimming in the deep blue waters to watching a Kemp’s ridley sea turtle hatchling release, there's so much to do here! It's our very own tropical paradise right here in the Lone Star State. Learn more on the National Park Service website.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, 16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, USA
The iconic Enchanted Rock is a pink granite monolith that towers over 400 feet into the Central Texas sky. Visitors can embark on 11 miles of hiking trails, including one that leads all the way up to the summit. The ancient Native American lore surrounding the rock only adds to its mysticism! Learn more on the Texas Parks & Wildlife website.
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Hamilton Pool Preserve (Dripping Springs)
A popular summer swimming spot, Hamilton Pool Preserve is the result of thousands of years of persistent water erosion. Its blue-green waters and 50-foot waterfall attract thousands of tourists each year, and it's easily one of the most photographed places in Texas. Learn more on the Travis County Parks website.
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Jacobs Well, Texas 78676, USA
Jacob's Well is another Hill Country treasure, boasting a crystal-clear, spring-fed pool with a 140-foot-deep underwater cave system at its center. While only authorized professionals are allowed to explore the caves, anyone (with a reservation) is allowed to swim in the spring. Tread water over the well for the thrill of a lifetime! Learn more on the Hays County website.
Big Bend National Park, TX, USA
No list of Texas natural wonders would be complete without Big Bend. One of the least-visited national parks in the country, this unspoiled desert oasis has some of the best hikes and darkest night skies in the world. It belongs on everyone's Texas bucket list! Learn more on the National Park Service website.
Caddo Lake State Park, 245 Park Rd 2, Karnack, TX 75661, USA
Another record-setting place in Texas, Caddo Lake is the largest cypress forest in the world. Its also one of the only natural lakes in Texas, and its lush vegetation and abundant wildlife (including over 70 species of fish!) make it an ideal destination for hikers, paddlers, anglers, and every nature lover in between. Learn more on the Texas Parks & Wildlife website.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park (Canyon)
The second-largest canyon in America, Palo Duro is smaller than only the Grand Canyon itself. Its rust-colored rock formations define the landscape of the Texas Panhandle, and more than 30 miles of multiuse trails beg to be explored. There is also luxury glamping in the park for those who want to spend the night in style! Learn more on the Texas Parks & Wildlife website.
How many of these natural wonders in Texas have you visited? Would you add any others to the list? Tell us in the comments below! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for an epic road trip that takes you to some of the most beautiful places in Texas.
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