Choke Canyon State Park, Texas

For some, Choke Canyon is considered the final frontier. Okay, by “some”, we mean alligators -- the park is the westernmost place in the U.S. where you’ll still commonly find gators swimming about. You may also spot wild turkey, coyote, and skunks among the park’s brush and along the lake’s banks. Pack your binoculars and take a hike on Choke Canyon’s special birding trails; woodpeckers, roadrunners, and Mexican eagles are fairly common sights. Kayak across the lake, fishing gear in tow to catch bass or crappie, or stay on land to explore some trails -- either on foot or by horseback. And just in case the natural splendors of Choke Canyon aren’t enough for you, bring your A-game to the park’s basketball and tennis courts or baseball field. However you fill your day, we have a feeling you’ll hit the sack in one of the two park campgrounds with a clear head, and creaking bones.