Tracking the Migrations of Sharks

Scientists are learning more about the incredible migrations of shark species in order to help protect them. Read about some of the latest research in this story for The Revelator. 

Dutch Oven Cooking

At Lake Tawakoni State Park near Dallas, birdwatch, fish, hike, camp and learn how to cook just about anything Dutch oven style as part of the Texas Outdoor Family workshops. 

Birds and more at Brazos Bend State Park

Brazos Bend State Park is a birding hotspot, with hundreds of species living here or passing through on migrations. Visitors can also spot alligators and other wildlife, hike miles of trails, or check out the Houston Museum of Science George Observatory. 

Sea Rim State Park

Fish, camp, kayak, wildlife watch, or just hang out on one of the most remote beaches in Texas. The park offers loaner fishing gear and kayak rentals, along with a six-person cabin to rent and a floating tent platform. 

Bat Signal at the Sinkhole

 Devil's Sinkhole State Natural Area is famous for the bats that spend summer in the 350-foot deep collapsed cave. Guests can join viewing tours May through October from Rocksprings. 

Hanging out with the Hawks

In March and April, migrating hawks stream through Bentsen Rio Grande State Park in south Texas. The park has a hawk tower and rents binoculars, the better to see the birds, and visitors can help count them for conservation. 

Star-filled Skies at South Llano River State Park

 With official Dark Sky designation, this Texas Hill Country park offers stellar stargazing, as well as hiking, wildlife watching, and river frontage. Read about how to best enjoy what the park has to offer. 

Christmas Traditions at Historic Fort Leaton

This circa-1800s compound on the Rio Grande celebrates the holidays with centuries old traditions, including a posada, luminarias, tamales, and pinatas. Read how to experience it for yourself.  

A Kiss from a Longhorn

 Copper Breaks State Park is home to the official Longhorn herd of Texas, and visitors can feed them by hand, or lips, getting what the rangers call a Longhorn kiss. Read how to get yours! 

Baby Bison, Prairie Dogs and More

Catch a glimpse of baby bison (and their large parents), prairie dogs, and bats at Caprock Canyons State Park. Read more in this piece for the Texas State Parks 100th Anniversary series.  

Sand Dunes without the Beach

 Texas has several inland sand dune sites perfect for sledding down and exploring. Read more about these destinations, how best to enjoy them, and fun facts about sand.

Glamping in Palo Duro State Park

Another in my 2023 series for Texas Highways during the 100th anniversary of Texas State Parks -- upscale camping in rugged Palo Duro Canyon.  

Wild and wonderful caves

Thousands of caves, sinkholes, and spring lie beneath much of Texas. Here are some amazing ones that you can explore. 

Bird Blinds + State Parks

Read fun facts and tips on enjoying the phenomenal birding to be had at state parks in Texas, and the volunteers who make it possible. 

Archery at Lockhart State Park

 Back in 2023, I did a series on the Texas Highways website for the 100th anniversary of Texas State Parks, featuring different fun activities at parks across the state. Apparently never posted them here! This one is about taking archery lessons at Lockhart State Park. 

The Rio Grande Beaver

The Rio Grande beaver, a subspecies of the American beaver, lives only along the Rio Grande from northern New Mexico to South Texas. Like their cousins, these busy critters are ecosystem engineers, increasing the biodiversity of their habitats. Read more in this piece for Texas Parks and Wildlife Magazine. 

Replanting seagrass meadows

Latest in my series for The Revelator on coastal ecosystem restoration: big results from tiny seeds in replanted seagrass beds. Read it here.