Stephen F. Austin State Park
Things to Do
Nestled on the banks of the Brazos River, Stephen F. Austin State Park provides the opportunity to get up close to nature. Located just 30 minutes from the outskirts of Houston, this quiet and peaceful park is a nice escape from the busy city life. Come out for just a day and enjoy the many hiking and biking trails, the picnic area, or spend the night, with a choice of four types of campsites. The park also offers group facilities, for day or overnight use.
Activities include picnicking, camping, fishing, hiking, biking, birdwatching, and geocaching.
Note: Trails may be closed for mountain biking after heavy rain events. It is advised that you contact the park before arrival (during periods where rain events may have occurred) for information on the trail status.
Volunteer Opportunities
Friends of Stephen F. Austin State Park - Make a difference! Donate or volunteer to help our park stay beautiful. Every dollar helps and we have a wide variety of jobs that you can come out and help us with, including mowing, litter pickup, trail repair and camp hosting. For more info, contact the park office. Thanks for your support!
Ranger Programs
Typically held on Saturdays, programs on various topics pertaining to the park are offered. All ages are welcome to these family programs. Contact park for actual schedule of programs.
Groups (4 or more): Contact the interpretive ranger to schedule group hikes and programs.
Saturday Morning Hikes - Come out to our regular Saturday morning hike at 9:30 and 11:30 a.m.! Our park ranger would love to explore Stephen F. Austin State Park’s trails with you on easy terrain, hour-long, weekly walks. Hike are open to the public, limited to 30 people. Please dress for the weather and walking in the woods, which includes long pants and closed-toed shoes. Please bring your own walking stick, bug spray, snack, and water. We’ll meet at the amphitheater in the park.
Friday Evening Campfires - Start your weekend off right, with this informative presentation from our Park Rangers, at our outdoor amphitheater, on Friday evenings in September, October, and November. All visitors are welcome to join us for a 7 p.m. presentation about the park’s storied history and filled with fun activities. These campfire gatherings last about an hour and a half.
Check the calendar for upcoming special events and programs.
- An Interpretation of the Cultural and Natural History of Stephen F. Austin State Park and San Felipe de Austin State Historic Site
- Stephen F. Austin State Park History: Pileated Woodpecker Bookmark
Area Attractions
Nearby points of interest are the San Jacinto Battleground Complex, which includes the San Jacinto Battleground, San Jacinto Monument and the Battleship TEXAS; San Felipe de Austin State Historic Site; Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site ; Bass Pro Shops ans Katy Mills Mall (Katy, Texas); Blue Bell ice cream factory (Brenham, Texas); and Houston, the largest city in Texas, which offers numerous attractions, including the Museum of Natural Science and NASA's Johnson Space Center.
