1. Stephen F. Austin State Park
Interpretive Ranger Ben Horstmann made an interesting presentation about
ranger duties and many aspects of Stephen F. Austin State Park, which is a 45
minute drive out I-10 west to San Felipe. The beautiful park that occupies the
moss-draped pecan bottoms along the Brazos River, Mexican land that was
granted to Stephen F. Austin, the “Father of Texas”, for the first Anglo colony in
Texas. The park contains hiking and biking trails, in addition to full-hookup RV
sites, 20 shelters, 40 tent camping sites, group facilities including a lodge that
sleeps 26, and a dining hall. Nearby the San Felipe State Historic Site is
operated under the management of the Texas Historical Commission.
Washington–on-the-Brazos State Historic Site where Texians met to declare
independence from Mexico is also nearby.
Ranger Ben, who is from Iowa and has only been at the park for 2 years, is in
charge of 5 miles of trails, volunteers and natural resources since he has a BS
degree in biology with specialization in environmental science. He spearheaded
the development of an unused pavilion into an Interpretive Center, which will be
open in November. The center will have exhibits and presentations to the public
and especially to children with whom he has the most fun.
He announced a new program from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for
families called Texas Outdoor Family. The program is designed to teach a family
the basic outdoor skills needed to enjoy a great overnight camping experience
and includes workshops. Camping equipment is provided for only $55.00.
Contact Ranger Ben at ben.horstmann@tpwd.state.tx.us for more information.
Information about all Texas parks can be found at www.tpwd.state.tx.us.