Exploring Texas State Parks: First Day Hikes and Winter Break Events Near Houston
As the holiday season wraps up and a new year begins, there's no better way to start fresh than by embracing the great outdoors. Texas State Parks near Houston offer an exciting range of First Day Hikes on January 1, 2025, as part of a nationwide initiative to get people outside and connected to nature right from the start of the year. In addition to these special hikes, the winter break offers plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy local parks with fun activities for all ages.
First Day Hikes at Texas State Parks Near Houston
First Day Hikes are an annual tradition at Texas State Parks, designed to encourage people of all ages to start the year off on the right foot—by connecting with nature. Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking to spend some time outdoors, there's a trail or activity to suit every preference. These hikes are a wonderful way to spend time with family and friends, meet new people, and perhaps discover a new favorite spot in the parks. Here are some of the First Day Hike events happening around Houston:
January 1, 2025 – First Day Hikes
- Fort Boggy State Park (4994 TX-75 South, Centerville, TX 75833 - MAP)
- Time: 10:00 AM
- What to Expect: Kickstart the year with a leisurely hike on the newly opened Tunnel Trail at Fort Boggy State Park. It’s a great option for those who want a relaxing start to their year in the fresh air. Learn more here.
- Galveston Island State Park (14901 FM3005, Galveston, TX 77554 - MAP)
- Time: 7:00 AM
- What to Expect: Experience the peaceful beauty of the beach at sunrise during this First Day Hike on the sand. It's a perfect way to reflect and set your intentions for the year ahead. Learn more here.
- Brazos Bend State Park (21901 Farm to Market Rd 762, Needville, TX 77461 - MAP)
- Time: 8:00 AM
- What to Expect: Head to Brazos Bend for a scenic hike, followed by a chance to collect a limited-edition First Day Hike sticker (while supplies last). Enjoy the park’s beautiful natural landscapes while embracing the quiet serenity of the new year. Learn more here.
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- Martin Dies, Jr. State Park (634 Park Rd 48 S, Jasper, TX 75951 - MAP)
- Time: 8:30 AM
- What to Expect: Join a park ranger for a guided hike along the Forest Trail. This hike is designed to help you connect with nature while learning about the local flora and fauna. Learn more here.
- Lake Somerville State Park – Nails Creek Unit (Ledbetter, TX 78946 - MAP)
- Time: 8:30 AM
- What to Expect: This self-guided hike offers a rejuvenating way to begin your year. Walk through the scenic trails and take in the natural beauty of Lake Somerville at your own pace. Learn more here.
- Buescher State Park (100 Park Rd 1C, Smithville, TX 78957 - MAP)
- Time: 9:00 AM
- What to Expect: Enjoy a guided hike on Buescher’s 1-mile loop. Hikers will be treated to a tranquil, immersive experience in the park’s lush landscapes. Learn more here.
- Sheldon Lake State Park & Environmental Learning Center (14140 Garrett Rd, Houston, TX 77044 - MAP)
- Time: 9:00 AM
- What to Expect: Take part in the First Day Hike at Sheldon Lake and enjoy a peaceful walk through its serene natural surroundings. It’s a great chance to unwind and reset your mind for the year ahead. Learn more here.
- Huntsville State Park (565 Park Road 40 West, Huntsville, TX 77340 - MAP)
- Time: 9:00 AM
- What to Expect: Join a volunteer-led hike to the Lake Raven Spillway. Along the way, you'll learn about the park’s wildlife and natural history. Learn more here.
- Stephen F. Austin State Park (Park Rd 38, San Felipe, TX 77473 - MAP)
- Time: 9:00 AM
- What to Expect: Start the year with a guided hike in this historically rich park, offering scenic views of the Brazos River and the surrounding woodlands. Learn more here.
State Park staff and park guests at Brazos Bend State Park- Village Creek State Park (8854 Park Rd 74, Lumberton, TX 77657 - MAP)
- Time: 9:30 AM
- What to Expect: Join a park ranger for a mindful, reflective hike through nature. This is a great hike for those who want to combine outdoor exercise with moments of peace and reflection. Learn more here.
- Lake Livingston State Park (300 State Park Rd 65, Livingston, TX 77351 - MAP)
- Time: 10:00 AM
- What to Expect: Celebrate the first day of the year with a guided hike around Lake Livingston, one of Texas’ largest state parks. Expect beautiful views of the lake and opportunities for birdwatching along the way. Learn more here.
- Mission Tejas State Park (19343 State Hwy 21 E, Grapeland, TX 75844 - MAP)
- Time: 10:00 AM
- What to Expect: Enjoy a ranger-led hike through this picturesque park. Mission Tejas offers a unique historical perspective alongside its natural beauty. Learn more here.
- Bastrop State Park (100 Park Road 1A, Bastrop, TX 78602 - MAP)
- Time: 11:00 AM
- What to Expect: Participate in a gentle, accessible hike along the paved sections of the 1-mile Lake Mina Loop. This is perfect for those looking for a low-impact, leisurely walk in the park’s stunning pine forests. Learn more here.
- Sea Rim State Park (19335 TX-87, Sabine Pass, TX 77655 - MAP)
- Time: 9:00 AM
- What to Expect: Start your resolutions off right with a guided hike along the beach at Sea Rim. The park’s coastal views and peaceful atmosphere make it a fantastic destination to kick off the year. Learn more here.
- Village Creek State Park (8854 Park Rd 74, Lumberton, TX 77657 - MAP)
- Time: 2:00 PM
- What to Expect: Explore the biodiversity of the Big Thicket region on a nature hike led by a park ranger. You’ll discover the unique ecosystems and plant life that make this area so special. Learn more here.
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Winter Break Events to Enjoy in and Around Houston
Aside from the First Day Hikes, there are a variety of exciting activities throughout the winter break, perfect for families, nature enthusiasts, and those looking to enjoy a little holiday cheer.
December 2024
- Fa La La in the Forest Scavenger Hunt
- Dates: December 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
- Location: Buescher State Park (100 Park Rd 1C, Smithville, TX 78957 - MAP)
- What to Expect: Follow the ornaments with clues through the park to find the hidden cache. Write your name in the journal and share your favorite part of the journey. A fun, family-friendly activity that runs throughout the holiday season. Learn more here.
- Mindfulness Hike
- Sunrise Fishing
- Night Hike for Wildlife
- Date: December 28 at 7:30 PM
- Location: Lake Livingston State Park (300 State Park Rd 65, Livingston, TX 77351 - MAP)
- What to Expect: Join park rangers for a guided night hike, where you’ll explore the park's nocturnal wildlife. The sounds of the forest at night offer a unique and exciting experience for all ages. Learn more here.
- Backyard Bass
- Date: December 28 at 10:00 AM
- Location: Sheldon Lake State Park & Environmental Learning Center (14140 Garrett Rd, Houston, TX 77044 - MAP)
- What to Expect: If you’ve ever wanted to try fishing but don’t have the gear, this hands-on activity allows you to practice fishing on dry land. Learn more here.
A sandcastle commemorating the start of the New Year, enjoyed by Galveston Island State Park January 2025
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Christmas Bird Count - 101
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Date: January 2 at 7:00 AM and 11:00 AM
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Location: Galveston Island State Park (14901 FM3005, Galveston, TX 77554 - MAP)
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What to Expect: Participate in the nation's longest-running community science project by helping count local bird species in Galveston. Learn more here for 7:00 AM and here for 11:00 AM.
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Birding Hike
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Date: January 3 at 8:00 AM
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Location: Brazos Bend State Park (21901 Farm to Market Rd 762, Needville, TX 77461 - MAP)
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What to Expect: With over 300 species of birds, Brazos Bend offers a fantastic spot for birdwatching. A ranger will guide you through the park, pointing out the local feathered residents. Learn more here.
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With a full calendar of events, there’s no shortage of opportunities to explore the great outdoors in and around Houston this winter. Whether you’re hiking, birdwatching, or just taking a stroll on the beach, these experiences will leave you feeling refreshed and recharged as you step into 2025. Visit the Texas State Parks website here to see a comprehensive list of events happening around the Houston area during December and January.
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To learn more about the Texas State Parks and explore other opportunities to get outside and enjoy all that nature has to offer across Texas, visit tpwd.texas.gov.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
