Hill Country State Natural Area, Texas

Lace up the ol’ hiking boots cause you’ve got over 5,000 acres of hill country to explore! From hiking and biking over trickling spring-fed streams and rocky limestone hills to taking a plunge in the bracing cool waters of a swimming hole, you’ll stay plenty busy at Hill Country State Natural Area. Horseback riding is a top notch activity here, too; literally, as you’ll find notches high up on hitching posts as well as water for horses scattered throughout the nature area, along with miles of equestrian trails to explore. But bring drinking water for yourself - this stuff’s for galloping creatures only. When it comes to camping, choose between “roughin’ it” and “roughin’ it even more”: there’s walk-in, equestrian, and even backcountry campsites up for grabs. Designated natural areas like Hill Country are more primitive and less features-rich than state parks, so be sure to pack everything you think you’d need for a day or two of backcountry fun.