Texas State Parks to resume limited overnight camping beginning May 18

AUSTIN, Texas - Texas State Parks will resume limited overnight camping at all state parks depending on individual park occupancy starting May 18.

Some existing reservations will be honored, but no new reservations can be made for now to prevent overcrowding, manage continued social distancing, and safeguard public health, says the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, which will notify the public once new reservations can be booked.

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“After careful consideration, we are taking this additional step towards returning to normal operations in our parks by resuming some overnight camping at Texas State Parks,” said TPWD executive director Carter Smith. “As overnight campers are welcomed back to their favorite natural spaces, our team will continue maintaining the cleanliness of frequently used facilities such as campsites, cabins, and restrooms to ensure that visitors, volunteers, and staff can continue to enjoy Texas State Parks safely.” 

TPWD recommends visitors continue to adhere to all travel restrictions and other guidance for safety and social distancing before traveling. Additionally, all visitors are required to pre-purchase and print day-use and overnight camping permits through the Texas State Parks Reservation System before traveling to a park. All reservations can be made online or by calling 512-389-8900.

RELATED: Big Bend Ranch State Park set to reopens to the public April 23

Existing social distancing standards and public health recommendations remain in effect including the recommendation to wear face coverings and bring hand sanitizer. State parks will also continue to require a six-foot distance from those outside of their party, including prohibiting groups larger than five not part of the same family or household.

Visitors planning on coming to a state park are encouraged to bring all necessary provisions, such as hand sanitizer and face masks, with them in order to help local businesses have enough goods to properly serve their communities during this time.

RELATED: Texas state parks reopening for day use only

Texas State Parks will continue to operate at a limited capacity. Operational changes still in effect include the suspension of all transactions at parks, equipment rentals, and in-person interpretive programs. All group-use facilities, visitor and nature centers, headquarters, and other enclosed spaces will also remain closed.

The continuation of overnight reservations and other park operations will be subject to change and is dependent on current data, staffing levels and public health recommendations. Park visitors should check the TPWD website and Texas State Parks Alert Map regularly for the latest information.

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