Top 10 Best Places To Hammock In Texas In 2022

Texas has an extensive network of beautiful parks, forests, and nature preserves. Many of these areas have designated hammock-friendly hangouts where you can relax and unwind in your private hammock. Here are some of our top picks for the best places to hammock in Texas:

Top 10 Best Hammock camping in Texas
1. Lost Maples State Natural Area
2. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
3. Dinosaur Valley State Park
4. Big Bend National Park
5. Lake Livingston State Park
6. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
7. Tyler State Park
8. Caprock Canyons State Park
9. Inks Lake State Park
10. Sam Houston National Forest

Table of Contents

 

1. Lost Maples State Natural Area

 

This beautiful park in the Texas Hill Country is well known for its impressive collection of maples, but it also offers some great spots to relax and unwind in your hammock. Popular hangout areas include Cypress Creek Campground and the rimrocks between Fall Creek and Sabinal River.

 

Where Is Lost Maples State Natural Area Located?

Address: 37221 RM 187, Vanderpool, TX 78885, United States
Phone+1 830-966-3413

When should I go to Lost Maples State Park?

The best time to visit the park is when the leaves change color during the fall. The leaves usually start changing color in mid-October and reach their peak color in late October or early November.

Spring and fall are the most popular times to visit because the weather is mild and there are a variety of plants and animals to see. Most of the trails are open during these seasons, and you can go canoeing on the river.

Summer is hot and Texan, so it’s not as popular for hiking, but you can still swim in the river. Winter is cold, so only a few trails are open, and some of the amenities (like restaurants) are closed.

Can you drive through Lost Maples State Park?

Yes, you can drive through Lost Maples State Park. The park has a scenic drive past the most popular park areas, including the Maple Canyon and the valley overlook. Several hiking trails start from the scenic drive.

Can you swim at Lost Maples State Park?

Yes! Lost Maples State Park offers wonderful swimming opportunities. The Sabinal River provides a cool, clean place to swim and relax on a hot day. There are also picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails in the park. So make a day of it and enjoy the beautiful Texas Hill Country.

Where are the Lost Maples in Texas?

The Lost Maples is located in Vanderpool, TX.

The Lost Maples State Natural Area is a 3710-acre park located in the Texas Hill Country about 80 miles west of Austin. The park is known for its stands of bigtooth maples – a North American hardwood typically found only in the higher elevations of the eastern United States.

The state of Texas purchased the Lost Maples State Natural Area in 1972 with help from the federal government and the Nature Conservancy.

How is Lost Maples State Park rated?

The Lost Maples State Park is one of the most popular parks in Texas and is highly rated for its scenic beauty. The park features a variety of hikes, campgrounds, and picnicking areas. The park is also home to a variety of birds and other wildlife. Visitors can also enjoy canoeing and fishing in the Sabinal River.

Here’s what people are saying about Lost Maples State Park: 

“The drive to get there is beautiful.” 
“There are some good short hikes with nice views.” 
“The scrambling up rocks is really fun.” 
“Rocks, trees, and cliffs – a great place to explore!” 

Overall, people enjoy visiting Lost Maples State Park – even if it can be a bit of a trek. The unique geological features and beautiful scenery make it well worth the visit!

Is Lost Maples State Park good for kids?

Last fall, we visited Lost Maples, and our kids (ages 5 and 8) had a blast! It’s the perfect mix of fun activities for kids and stunning views/hiking for adults.

The ranger-led activities are geared towards youngsters and are super engaging. And there are plenty of short trails (both paved and not) with lots to look at along the way – caves, beautyberry bushes, cool rocks, clear creeks, etc.

Even our 5 year old could manage most of the hike up to Turk’s Cap outlook – one of the best views in the park! We also loved camping at Lost Maples. There are tons of great sites to choose from and plenty of room for kids to explore.

Overall, we recommend Lost Maples State Park for families with younger children. It’s a great place to learn about nature, exercise, and have fun!

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Where is the best place to hike in Lost Maples State Natural Area?

There are many great places to hike in Lost Maples State Natural Area! The best place to hike will depend on your personal preferences. Do you want a strenuous hike with lots of elevation gain? Or do you prefer a gentler hike with beautiful views? Regardless of what you’re looking for, there’s sure to be a perfect trail for you in this stunning state park.

Some of the most popular Lost Maples State Natural Area trails include the Birdblind Trail, Sunset Trail, and West Parsons Loop Trail.

The Birdblind Trail, a moderately long loop trail covering 1.1 miles, leads to an observation deck overlooking a bird Blind canyon.

The Sunset Trail is a 0.6-mile easy trail that offers beautiful sunset views of the park.

The West Parsons Loop Trail, a moderate loop trail covering 3.2 miles, winds through the terrain, including meadows and hills.

No matter your hiking preferences, you’re sure to find the perfect trail for you in Lost Maples State Natural Area. So get out there and explore!

What is the longest trail in Lost Maples State Natural Area?

Two different trails can be the longest in Lost Maples State Natural Area. The first is the Upper Turtle Rock Trail, which clocks in at a shade over 7 miles round trip.

The second is the East Ridge Trail, which comes in at just under 9 miles round trip. So it depends on how you want to define “longest”!

These trails offer hikers stunning views of the expansive canyons and cliffs that make up Lost Maples. In particular, the East Ridge Trail features some incredible vistas of Turquoise Lake, one of the most popular attractions in the state park.

Regardless of which trail you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable hiking experience in Lost Maples State Natural Area.

Photos Of Lost Maples State Natural Area

 

 

2. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

 

This expansive canyon located in the Texas Panhandle offers breathtaking views and plenty of room to hang your hammock. This park is a great spot for stargazing, and this park is also home to some popular hiking trails.

 

Where Is Palo Duro Canyon State Park Located?

Address: 11450 State Hwy Park Rd 5, Canyon, TX 79015, United States
Phone+1 806-488-2227
Length: 120 mi (190 km)

Can you drive through the Palo Duro Canyon?

YES! You can most definitely drive through the Palo Duro Canyon! The Palo Duro Canyon is a huge canyon that runs through the state of Texas. It’s about 120 miles long and 20 miles wide, so there’s plenty of room for your car to explore.

The best time to drive through the canyon is in the spring or fall when the weather is cooler, and the colors are prettier.

There are also many different scenic viewpoints that you can stop at to take pictures and enjoy the view. So grab your keys and hit the road-you’re sure to have an unforgettable adventure driving through one of America’s most amazing natural wonders!

Why is Palo Duro Canyon famous?

Palo Duro Canyon is famous for being one of the deepest and largest canyons in the United States. The canyon measures 120 miles long and 20 miles wide, with a depth of 1,000 feet. Located in the Texas Panhandle, Palo Duro Canyon is part of the Purgatoire River system and drains an area of approximately 27,700 square miles. 

The unique features that make Palo Duro Canyon famous include its red cliffs, Hoodoo formations (tall thin spires of rock formed by wind and water erosion), deserts, grasslands, and woodlands ecosystem. Palo Duro Canyon is also home to wildlife, including deer, coyotes, bobcats, javelinas, and more.

For many years, Palo Duro Canyon has been a popular destination for hikers, mountain bikers, and campers. Many people visit the canyon to experience its stunning beauty and diverse landscape. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush on a mountain bike or want to take in the scenery, there’s something for everyone at Palo Duro Canyon!

What is the entry fee for the Palo Duro Canyon?

There is no fee to enter the Palo Duro Canyon. However, there are fees associated with camping, fishing, and using the park’s recreational facilities. For more information, please visit the link.

What attractions are near Palo Duro Canyon State Park?

Palo Duro Canyon is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The canyon’s unique geological and ecological features offer visitors a variety of activities to enjoy. Rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching are just a few of the many recreational opportunities available in the park. 

Also located nearby is the Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument is also located nearby, which offers visitors a chance to see firsthand how Native Americans used this natural resource for centuries. With so much to see and do, Palo Duro Canyon will please everyone in your group!

Photos Of Palo Duro Canyon State Park

 

 

3. Dinosaur Valley State Park

 

Located near Glen Rose in Somervell County, this state park is famous for its well-preserved fossilized footprints. It’s also a great place to set up your hammock and enjoy the tranquil setting.

 

Where Is Dinosaur Valley State Park Located?

Address: 1629 Park Rd 59, Glen Rose, TX 76043, United States
Area: 6.17 km²
Phone+1 254-897-4588

How much does it cost to get into dinosaur Valley?

Dinosaur Valley State Park is located in Glen Rose, Texas, southwest of Dallas. The park offers visitors the chance to see 110-million-year-old fossilized footprints and hike, camp, and fish in the scenic Lesser Paluxy River.

Admission to the park is $7 per person for 13 and older (children 12 and under are free). Annual passes are also available for $70, allowing unlimited entry for up to 12 months from purchase. You can find more information about Dinosaur Valley State Park here:

Do I need a reservation for Dinosaur Valley State Park?

You do not need a reservation to visit Dinosaur Valley, State Park. However, it is always good to check the park’s website or call ahead to find out the current conditions. The park is often crowded on weekends and holidays, so if you can visit during the week, you’ll likely have a better experience.

Are you planning to hike while you’re here? Then you’ll want to check the weather forecast in advance, as some trails can be dangerous when wet or icy. Regardless of when you come or what you do while you’re here, Dinosaur Valley State Park is sure to be an unforgettable adventure!

How is Dinosaur Valley State Park rated?

Although we can’t speak for everyone, we loved Dinosaur Valley, State Park! The minute we arrived, we were in awe of the amazing landscape and couldn’t wait to explore. 

The park offers a great variety of activities and attractions. For example, you can go hiking or biking through the many trails; you can photograph the unique rock formations or look for dinosaurs (the park is named)! 

In terms of facilities, the picnic areas are top-notch, and plenty of restrooms are spread throughout the park. Overall, it’s just a really enjoyable place to spend a day or two. 

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So if you’re ever in Texas, be sure to check out.

Photos Of Dinosaur Valley State Park

 

 

4. Big Bend National Park

 

One of the country’s largest and most popular national parks, Big Bend is home to many hiking trails and scenic vistas. It’s also a great place to hammock, with plenty of trees and open space to set up your hammock and relax.

 

Where Is Big Bend National Park Located?

Address: Big Bend National Park, TX, United States
Phone+1 432-477-2251

Is Big Bend National Park worth it?

Yes, absolutely! Big Bend National Park is an extremely beautiful and unique park worth the trip.

The park is located in southwest Texas and covers over 800,000 acres. The park contains canyons, mountains, and rivers and offers visitors a wide range of activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and swimming. The park is also home to animal species, including black bears, mountain lions, javelinas, and coyotes.

Big Bend National Park is a stunning park that should not be missed if traveling through Texas.

What is the best time of year to visit Big Bend National Park?

Big Bend National Park is open all year round, but the best time of year to visit depends on what you want to do. If you’re going to go hiking and camping, the best time of year is spring or fall when the temperatures are more moderate.

If you want to go bird watching or see the wildflowers, the best time of year is winter or spring when there is less chance of rain.

What’s special about Big Bend National Park?

Big Bend National Park is unique because of its isolation. Located in southwest Texas, the park is bordered by the Rio Grande and Mexico on the other. This makes it one of the most remote national parks in the lower 48 states.

The park is also home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, including more than 1,200 species of plants, 400 birds, and 75 species of mammals. And because it’s so remote, Big Bend National Park offers visitors plenty of opportunities for solitude and outdoor recreation.

 

Photos Of Big Bend National Park

 

 

5. Lake Livingston State Park

 

This beautiful lake in east Texas is a popular swimming, fishing, and boating destination. It’s also a great place to hammock, with plenty of trees and lakeside sites to set up camp.

 

Where Is Lake Livingston State Park Located?

Address: 300 State Park Rd 65, Livingston, TX 77351, United States
Phone+1 936-365-2201

How is Lake Livingston State Park rated?

Lake Livingston State Park is rated as one of Texas’ top state parks. This is mostly due to the clear water and abundance of fish. The lake has great camping, good trails, and welcoming people. These things make it a great spot to spend some time outdoors with friends or family.

Lake Livingston is a great state park for camping, fishing, and hiking. The scenery is absolutely beautiful, and the staff is always friendly and helpful. We’ve been coming here for years, and it’s always been a great experience.

The lake itself is massive and perfect for boating or swimming, and there are plenty of trails to explore in the woods. The sites are well-maintained and private, with fire pits and picnic tables. There’s also a great playground for kids.

Overall, we highly recommend Lake Livingston State Park – it’s perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation!

Where is the best place to hike in Lake Livingston State Park?

Lake Livingston State Park is a great place for hiking because there are many different trails, and the scenery is beautiful. Some of the best trails in the park include:

-The Indian Mounds Trail, which leads to two ancient Native American mounds
-The Wolf Creek Trail, which follows a scenic creek bed
-The Cypress Point Trail, which offers great views of the lake from high up in the hills

So if you’re looking for a great place to go hiking, Lake Livingston State Park is worth checking out!

What is the longest trail in Lake Livingston State Park?

The longest trail in Lake Livingston State Park is the cypress-lined Camp Wallace Trail, which runs for 4.6 miles through the park’s heart. The trailhead is located at the end of campground loop B, and from there, it winds its way through woods and along creeks before emerging at one of the busiest day-use areas in the park, Piney Point. 

The terrain is mostly flat, making it great for hikers of all abilities, and there are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. If you’re interested in exploring everything that Lake Livingston offers, this is the trail!

 

6. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

 

This west Texas park is home to the tallest mountain in Texas, Guadalupe Peak. It’s also a great place for backpacking and camping and offers plenty of opportunities to set up your hammock and enjoy the view.

 

Where Is Guadalupe Mountains National Park Located?

Address: Salt Flat, TX 79847, United States
Phone+1 915-828-3251

Can you drive through Guadalupe Mountains National Park?

Yes, you can drive through the park accessible from US 62/180 and TX Highway 118. No roads lead directly into McDonald Observatory or Guadalupe Peak (elevation 8,749 feet). Still, you can make a beautiful drive through the mountains to reach the observatory and the peak.

Where is the best place to hike in Guadalupe Mountains National Park?

There are many great places to hike in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, but the McKittrick Canyon Trail is my personal favorite. The trail winds its way through a beautiful canyon and provides excellent views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a fairly easy hike, making it perfect for families or beginners, and wheelchair-accessible.

How many days do you need in Guadalupe Mountains National Park?

A few days should be plenty of time to explore the Guadalupe Mountains National Park if you’re interested in hiking and sightseeing. The park has more than 80 miles of trails, so there’s plenty to see and do!

 

7. Tyler State Park

 

This east Texas park is a popular swimming, boating, and hiking destination. It also offers scenic spots to hang your hammock and enjoy the view.

 

Where Is Tyler State Park Located?

Address: Tyler State Park Area 1 Bath House, 789 Park Rd 16, Tyler, TX 75706, United States
Phone+1 903-597-5338

How is Tyler State Park rated?

Tyler State Park is rated as a 4-star park by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

Tyler State Park is a 940-acre park located in the heart of East Texas just north of Tyler. The park offers something for everyone, including picnicking, camping, fishing, swimming, boating, nature study, and more.

The park has been awarded the prestigious “4-star rating” from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for its quality facilities and excellent customer service.

How much does Tyler State Park cost?

Tyler State Park admission prices are as follows:

Admission to Texas Tyler State Park is $5 per car for vehicles with 8 people. For larger vehicles, such as RVs and buses, the admission fee is $10. Admission for pedestrians and bicyclists is $3 per person.

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Annual passes are also available for Texas Tyler State Park. These passes cost $35 for vehicles with 8 people and $70 for larger vehicles. Passes are valid for one year from the date of purchase and provide unlimited access to the park for all pass holders.

If you are planning a visit to Texas Tyler State Park, we recommend purchasing an annual pass in advance. This will save you time and money, allowing you to explore all that the park offers without worrying about paying each time you visit.

 

 

8. Caprock Canyons State Park

 

A vast expanse of rugged canyons located in far north Texas, this park is home to some breathtaking landscapes that are perfect for a leisurely afternoon nap in your hammock.

 

Where Is Caprock Canyons State Park Located?

Address: 850 Caprock Canyon Park Road, Quitaque, TX 79255, United States
Phone+1 806-455-1492

Is Caprock Canyon worth visiting?

Yes, Caprock Canyon is worth visiting! It’s a beautiful place with lots of hiking trails and wildlife. Even if you’re not into hiking, the scenery is still stunning. Plus, it’s a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation spot, this is it.

Caprock Canyon is a spectacular and little-known nature destination in the Texas Panhandle. With its endless miles of multi-hued cliffs, deep canyons, remote trails, and otherworldly rock formations, it’s easy to see why this area is often referred to as the “mini Grand Canyon.”

Located within the bounds of Caprock Canyons State Park, the canyon system was carved over millions of years by water from the intermittent streambeds of Tule Creek and North Prong Salt Fork Brazos River. Today, those same forces continue to shape and erode the landscape; each time it rains, more of the canyon is worn away.

What is Caprock Canyon known for?

Caprock Canyon is known for its stunning and unique geological features, including but not limited to the Caprock Escarpment. The canyon was also historically used by Native Americans, who left behind pictographs and petroglyphs and evidence of their inhabitation. Today, the canyon is a popular tourist destination for hikers, mountain bikers, and birders.

 

9. Inks Lake State Park

 

This central Texas park is a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and canoeing. It’s also a great place to hammock, with plenty of shady spots to set up your camp.

 

Where Is Inks Lake State Park Located?

Address: 3630 Park Rd 4 W, Burnet, TX 78611, United States
Phone+1 512-793-2223

How much does it cost to get into Inks Lake?

It’s free to get into Inks Lake. However, there is a charge for camping. The cost for primitive camping is $10 per night, and the cost for RV camping is $20 per night.

Are there snakes in Inks Lake?

Yes, there are snakes in Inks Lake! Visitors to the park should be aware of the presence of these reptiles and take precautions accordingly.

Several species of snake can be found in Inks Lake State Park, including the common garter snake and rat snake. These snakes are generally not aggressive and will only bite if they feel threatened. However, their bites can still be painful and potentially poisonous, so it is best to avoid them.

If you encounter a snake while hiking or camping in the park, give it plenty of space and do not try to capture or kill it. Remember that these animals play an important role in the ecosystem and help keep populations of rodents and other pests under control.

Use caution when walking or swimming in areas where snakes might be hiding, and keep an eye out for any signs of a snake nearby. With a little vigilance, you can enjoy Inks Lake State Park without worrying about the presence of these slithery creatures! Here are a few that you might encounter: 

-Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake: The largest and most venomous of all the North American rattlesnakes, one bite from this snake can deliver enough venom to kill an adult human. They are shy by nature but will aggressively defend themselves if they feel threatened. 

-Cottonmouth or Water Moccasin: This is a large and very dangerous snake often mistaken for a water moccasin. It is found in swamps and streams in the southeastern United States. 

-Copperhead: A member of the pit viper family, copperheads are native to the eastern and central United States. They are not aggressive and will only bite if they feel threatened. However, their venom is potent, so it’s important to exercise caution when hiking or camping in areas where copperheads may be present.

If you see a snake while exploring Inks Lake State Park, stay calm and do your best to avoid contact with it. Remember that snakes play an important role in the ecosystem and help keep populations of rodents under control, so it’s best to respect their presence and try not to disturb them.

With a little caution and common sense, you can enjoy a fun day out in Inks Lake State Park without worrying about these slithery creatures!

 

10. Sam Houston National Forest

 

This sprawling forest covers more than 160,000 acres in east Texas. It’s a great place to recharge your batteries and relax in your hammock, with plenty of scenic spots to set up camp.

 

Where Is Sam Houston National Forest Located?

Address: 394 FM 1375 West, New Waverly, TX 77358, United States
Phone+1 936-344-6205

How much does it cost to go to Sam Houston National Forest?

The Sam Houston National Forest is a great place to visit, and the costs vary depending on the time of year and what you want to do while you’re there. Generally speaking, camping fees range from $10-15 per night, while picnicking and day-use areas normally cost $5-10. 

Additionally, if you’re looking to do some hiking or backpacking, remember to budget for trail usage fees, typically $2-5 per person. 

A trip to the Sam Houston National forest can be as cheap or expensive as you want it to be. If you’re looking to explore nature for a day or two, your costs will be relatively low. 

However, if you want to stay overnight and explore the forest more in-depth, your costs will be higher. Regardless, the Sam Houston National Forest is a beautiful place to visit and experience nature at its finest. So why not plan a trip today?

Can you camp anywhere in Sam Houston National Forest?

Yes, you can camp anywhere in Sam Houston National Forest if you are camping in an approved location. There are a variety of campgrounds and backcountry campsites to choose from, so be sure to do your research before heading out.

Some areas may be more popular than others, so it’s best to arrive early if you want a good spot. Have a great time camping in Sam Houston National Forest!

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