I am going to add some of my favorite camping and trekking activities from Abilene Texas and around the Big Country. The nickname of the central Texas area where Abilene is. I lived there for three years and visited all of these state parks. They are all driving distance from Abilene. I really enjoyed my time there and went to many places all around the area.
Useful Links
- Caprock Canyon State Park and Trailway: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/caprock-canyons
- South Llano River State Park: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/south-llano-river
- Copper Breaks State Park: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/copper-breaks
- Abilene State Park: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/abilene
Caprock Canyon State Park and Trailway
Caprock Canyon State Park is special area on the eastern slope of the Llano Estacado or the “staked plaines” in central Texas. It’s a park that includes canyons, hiking, camping, and the trailway. The park also includes bison herds and other unique flora and fauna.
The main allure of the park is the eastern escarpment cliffs. These cliffs are part of an escarpment that starts in central Texas and heads north into the panhandle of Texas, approximately 300 miles. These cliffs climb above the plains approximately one thousand feet. The red cliffs are picturesque especially in the morning and the views to the east are beautiful when you climb to the top.
One main attraction for the park is the extensive trails in the park that travel all throughout the plains and wind through the cliffs. The different camping options can be found here. The best park camping is the walk-in options found around the trails in the park. These walk-in primitive camping sites have an open area and a vault toilet. The main allure is how far these spots are and the wide-open sky is sure to mesmerize.
The geographically separated trailway is the second main feature of the park. It is 64 miles of an abandoned railway that ended service in 1989 and the park department purchased the right of way. The southern terminus is located here. The northern terminus is here. You can camp and ride horses throughout the trailway and it’s a unique opportunity to something really interesting and one-of-a-kind in Texas.
South Llano River State Park
South Llano is a gem and located only 2 hours south of Abilene. The park is located on the South Llano River and has ample camping and some trails around the park. The big lure of the park is its access to the river for hot summer days of swimming or tubing.
The river is a beautiful clear stream with small pebbles along the banks. There are fish and plants in the river and it is a quintessential central Texas summer float and swim spot.
The camping is standard state park camping. There are built up toilets, cement pads, electricity in many spots, and walk-in tent camping in the southern part of the park. It’s a great location and a worthwhile trip for those hot summer camping nights and easy access for day swimming. I’d love to go back to this place as soon as possible!
Copper Breaks State Park
Copper Breaks State Park is such a gem! I highly recommend it and it is highly off the beaten path. The park is known for its longhorn cow population as well as dark skies which are perfect for late night star viewing or pictures.
The park features a fishing lake, RV and tent camping, equine activities and trails all around the park. This high plain park also has some difficult terrain but is easily navigated. There is ample space at this park even during high season because it is so remote, obscure, and away from any major areas.
Copper Breaks was one of my favorite parks to visit while I lived in Abilene. I love the wide-open skies! I do enjoy stargazing and photos so I always tried to make my way out there to see the big ole stars! I’d highly recommend this park if you want a lazy, relaxing weekend then this is the place to go!
Abilene State Park
Abilene State Park is located about 20 miles south of the city and takes its name from its closest city. It is a smaller park but offers all kinds of amenities. It has all the standard fare but one nice addition for camping is the ability to rent yurts. These are round canvas camping tents that usually have a bed inside and other basic amenities.
Another awesome attraction is the swimming pool. The 1930s era Civilian Conservation Corp built many structures around the park to include the swimming pool buildings and the water tower next to it. The swimming pool is a wonderful respite to a hot summer day!
There is also Abilene Lake. It’s a reservoir but has recently been empty or partially full. Make sure to check before stopping in for fishing to find out the status of the lake. You can always call or check out the lake level website here.
There are tons of special areas all around Abilene Texas. The state parks are all top-notch places. They should be in any big country resident’s list of camping and trekking. Central Texas offers such diversity and great skies that this part of the nation should be on any camper or trekker’s list!
If you ever make it a few miles north and find yourself in Oklahoma, then check out these other Oklahoma camping spots here! All of these Big Country and Oklahoma camping spots are within a day’s drive from each other and are easily accessible for a central USA trip!