Campsite: Walnut Springs, site 111
Taking the Loop Trail clockwise out of the parking lot, with a brief out-and-back to check out the scenic overlook clocked in at a 1.5-mile hike in. The hike in trail is flat and wide, easy hike. There were a few primitive sites that were right on the path, so select carefully. Site 111 was fairly tucked away, with two or three small nooks that would fit a small tent. There were a lot of coyotes in the park (which was a little spooky at night solo).
Hikes & Trails
Favorite Hike: Summit Trail – Short and steep. This is the main event at the park, really pretty views at the top and a fairly unique open trail concept. And steep enough to be challenging. There were a handful of people who turned around at the halfway point (but know that it doesn’t get any steeper – so if you start up the trail you can totally finish the trail).
Most Challenging: Summit Trail (elevation), Echo Canyon (trail markers and terrain). Some of the trails at the park are wide and manicured. There were rangers patrolling the Loop Trail on a 4-wheeler. The Echo Canyon trail gives a little more off trail, over rocks, type feel which I really enjoy. Make sure to plan adequate daylight or risk missing the trail markers.
What I Eat on a short weekend trip
Breakfast: Moutain House Adventure Meals Scrambled Eggs
6/10: Weird texture, very bland. Love having a warm breakfast morning option other than oats. I would try these again, next time with a tortilla & hot sauce.
Lunch: Epic Venison + Babybel cheese + PeanutButter crackers + Pistachios
9/10: I love packing a snack-style lunch when I am hiking/packing. No heat required, easy to eat on the go, and sweet + salty. The Babybel cheese didn’t handle the heat well. Rubbery and a little oily (but still fairly edible). I am still on a quest to find the best cheese for backpacking.
Snack: Kona Ice Passion Fruit
10/10: This is the second Texas State Park that I have found a Kona Ice snow cone stand and am obsessed with this idea! In the 100+ degree heat that I have been camping in shaved ice was a delicious treat.
Dinner: Mike’s Mighty Good Ramen, chicken + fried garlic flavor x2. I typically seek for my meals to be around 5-600 calories; long days of hiking means high calorie burn!
8.5/10: Love this flavor of ramen, it’s very salty and I enjoy the flavor of the broth. Not much protein, I might try this meal again with the addition of a protein source. Basic, tasty, easy to cook. Not flashy but gets the job done.
This is one of my favorite Texas State Parks. There are a variety of trail types and enough distance to keep you busy over a full weekend. Water is plentiful near trailheads and campsites (but NOT near the primitive campsites). Well maintained trails and restrooms.
and-adventures.com 