12 Parks and Trails Within 60 Miles of Houston, Texas

1. Brazos Bend State Park (45 miles southwest)

• Why Visit? Home to alligators, diverse wildlife, and scenic wetland trails.
• Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and stargazing at the George Observatory.
• Website: Brazos Bend State Park

2. Galveston Island State Park (57 miles southeast)

• Why Visit? A coastal escape with both beach and bay ecosystems.
• Activities: Hiking, kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching.
• Website: Galveston Island State Park

3. Lake Houston Wilderness Park (35 miles north)

• Why Visit? A peaceful forest retreat with over 4,700 acres of woodlands.
• Activities: Hiking, kayaking, camping, and mountain biking.
• Website: Lake Houston Wilderness Park

4. Armand Bayou Nature Center (20 miles southeast)

• Why Visit? A protected coastal preserve featuring wetlands, prairies, and wildlife.
• Activities: Hiking, canoeing, and guided wildlife tours.
• Website: Armand Bayou Nature Center

5. Sheldon Lake State Park & Environmental Learning Center (20 miles northeast)

• Why Visit? A wetlands park with a historic fish hatchery and boardwalk trails.
• Activities: Fishing, birdwatching, and climbing the 82-foot observation tower.
• Website: Sheldon Lake State Park

6. Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center (25 miles north)

• Why Visit? A dense forest park along Spring Creek with diverse trails and wildlife.
• Activities: Hiking, canoeing, and historical nature exhibits.
• Website: Jesse H. Jones Park

7. Cullinan Park (30 miles southwest)

• Why Visit? A hidden gem with scenic wetlands, lakes, and birdwatching opportunities.
• Activities: Hiking, fishing, and nature photography.
• Website: Cullinan Park

8. Memorial Park & Houston Arboretum (5 miles west of downtown)

• Why Visit? One of the largest urban parks in the U.S. with a dedicated nature preserve.
• Activities: Hiking, running, biking, and nature education.
• Website: Memorial Park Conservancy

9. Bay Area Park (25 miles southeast)

• Why Visit? A serene waterside park with access to Armand Bayou.
• Activities: Hiking, kayaking, fishing, and picnic areas.
• Website: Bay Area Park

10. Stephen F. Austin State Park (55 miles west)

• Why Visit? A historic riverfront park with dense woodlands and peaceful hiking trails.
• Activities: Hiking, camping, birdwatching, and golfing nearby.
• Website: Stephen F. Austin State Park

11. San Jacinto Battleground & State Historic Site (25 miles east)

• Why Visit? Home to Texas history, the San Jacinto Monument, and scenic trails.
• Activities: Hiking, history tours, and birdwatching along the bayou.
• Website: San Jacinto Battleground

12. The Woodlands Waterway & George Mitchell Nature Preserve (35 miles north)

• Why Visit? A beautiful forested escape with a mix of urban green spaces and trails.
• Activities: Hiking, biking, and kayaking.
• Website: George Mitchell Nature Preserve

These parks and trails provide hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, and nature escapes all within 60 miles of Houston. Whether you’re looking for wetlands, forests, or coastal scenery, there’s something for everyone! 🚀🌿