Top state parks
State ParkDinosaur Valley State Park
State ParkGarner State Park
State ParkBrazos Bend State Park
State ParkPedernales Falls State Park
State ParkEnchanted Rock State Natural Area
State ParkGoose Island State Park
State ParkCaprock Canyons State Park and Trailway
State ParkSeminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site
State ParkColorado Bend State Park
State ParkBig Bend Ranch State Park
State ParkMcKinney Falls State Park
State ParkLake Tawakoni State Park
State Parks by county
All state parks (77)
Sky = estimated Bortle class (1 darkest – 9 brightest).
Map
How to photograph state parks
State parks often protect a signature feature — a gorge, lake or overlook — that is best in early morning before visitors and harsh light arrive.
- Check park hours: many state parks close at dusk, which affects sunset and night shooting.
- Ask rangers about photography permits for commercial work, models or drones.
- Weekday mornings are the least crowded at popular viewpoints.
- Trail maps often mark overlooks — combine them with the sun azimuth to plan.
- Day-use fees or passes are common; buy them online before arriving.
Season: Spring wildflowers and autumn color are peak seasons in most parks.