Some of the Best West Texas Gems

Of course, west Texas is more known for its glorious sunsets, high winds, and little rainfall than for natural beauty. Not like Washington, or even south Texas, where rolling hills and stunning geography make it an outdoorsman's playground. But that doesn't mean west Texas doesn't have something to offer for those who are willing to look- and those who live here.

I grew up in west Texas. I've lived fourteen of my nineteen years here. So, believe me when I tell you there are beautiful parts of the oilfield capital of the country.

1. We have a National Park.

Granted, Big Bend is also a state park, but just a few miles down the road, it becomes a national park, so we'll count it. For those who are wondering, Big Bend is home to the Rio Grande, which also flows in other parts of Texas and parts of New Mexico. But, news flash- the Rio Grande is the border for the US and Mexico.

Big Bend is also home to hiking, sights, and old country views and ideals. Situated in the deepest desert of Texas, it's got beautiful cacti and rock formations for experienced and beginner hikers alike (my mother, two aunts, and I went in January and were able to hike for two days without any difficulty. It was even warm enough to be wearing tank tops!).

For beginners, I would recommend Santa Elena Canyon as a must-do hike. The views are insane, and you walk right along the river for most of it (ps, if you see people climbing a tree to begin the hike, keep walking. There's an easier way up just past that tree). I would also recommend hitting up the Hot Springs around sunset, but be sure to get out of there before total darkness, because the road in and out is a little sketchy.

Situated just an hour down the road, Terlingua, Texas is a must-see for Texans and out-of-staters alike. With the best lodging closest to the park, it's a necessity for food, sights, and music. Built up like an old Texan town, with a goat as the mayor, and shopping, this is one of the best places to be able to say "I've been there!". So hit up the Starlight Theatre, stay in a bubble at Basecamp Terlingua, and get yourself some memories underneath the infamous west Texas stars.

2. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

A few hours into the Texas Panhandle is Palo Duro Canyon State Park, about half an hour from another famous Texas town, Amarillo. Palo Duro sits in the canyon of the caprock that covers most of the panhandle, making it a long, flat drive for most of west Texas. Then... BOOM: hiking and stunning rock formations. While it reminds me of Big Bend, Palo Duro's rocks have that usual panhandle red to them, and the park is significantly smaller. Palo Duro is also cooler than Big Bend, making it favorable during those summer months (not saying it's cold. It's still got that Texas buzz in the air).

Amarillo is right next door, which you may have heard in plenty of old country songs. This is a grown folk's playground and is now home to the second ever veterinarian school in Texas. With ranching heritage all around, it's hard to not get sucked into the old Texas feel in this new Texas town.

3. Fort Davis, Marfa, and Alpine

These three are known for quirky shops and people, beautiful nights, and amazing summer temperatures.

Alpine, Texas is home to Sul Ross University, situated at the top of town and overlooking the thrifting, amazing food, and mountains that Alpine has to offer.

Marfa, Texas is home to the infamous Prada and Target art installations. These are must-stops on road trips for pictures. Marfa itself has, once again, amazing food and mountains. Marfa is known as an art hub and also hosts the Marfa Myths Festival. It's also well known for the Marfa Lights, a phenomenon that can sometimes be seen from the city that was once thought to be UFOs flying overhead.

Fort Davis, Texas is home to... you guessed it, Fort Davis. The old fort can still be toured and I'd obviously recommend doing so. While there, check out the Caboose, an old train caboose turned ice cream shop. Down the road, on the way to the McDonald Observatory, you can check out Prude Ranch or Sproul Ranch, amazing places to stay and try out the old ranch life on horseback. And, if you've got kiddos, Prude Ranch doubles as a summer camp during the season. If you catch Lympia Creek after a rain, be sure to play in the water, because it'll be gone by the time you come back by!

If you're going to check these three out, you might as well pay Balmorhea State Park a visit! Natural springs that have recently been renovated with RV hookups, this is the perfect place to snorkel with the fish and take a dip in the hot summer sun. You can even learn to scuba dive here! On top of all that, if you'd rather have a lake day, you can hit up Balmorhea's lake down the road!

4. Devil's River, Del Rio, Texas.

The Devil's River is one of the most hidden gems of Texas, one that most Texans don't even know about. Once again close to the Texas-Mexico border, you can take a right off the road from Sonora to Del Rio and be in a whole new world.

Dolan Falls is one of the most well-known spots, and for a good reason. Kayaking is a must if you visit, and don't forget your goggles, because the Devil's River is one of the few Texas rivers you can see right to the bottom in. It's known for camping, kayakers, and Native American treasures. If you visit, be sure to climb into at least one cave and catch a sunset over the rapids! Be aware, though, that 4-wheel drive is a must here and the closest store will be at least an hour away, and you'll be out there without cell service.

But hey, that's the beauty of Texas, right?

Those are just some of my personal favorite west Texas gems! Make sure to look into all the pit stops in between- like petting llamas or camels, cliff jumping, and watering holes! West Texas may look like it's just a flat rock covered in farmland, but there are years of history buried in these rocks. Make sure to pay attention to it.