Yeah, there is very little public land in Texas. I've been to a lot of the state parks (there are some good ones). The dinosaur tracks in government canyon ar

Yeah, there is very little public land in Texas. I've been to a lot of the state parks (there are some good ones). The dinosaur tracks in government canyon are cool, lost maples is nice. I've spent a whole lot of time at Enchanted Rock. None of the places is very big, but if there should be enough to keep someone busy for most weekends if they are motivated. As you get farther, Mustang Island state park is nice, and I'm very much looking forward to build some lead rock climbing skills-- El Portrero Chico is only 6 hours south. As other folks have mentioned, Big Bend, Terrlingua, MArfa, Alpine, etc. are all quite good. If you haven't been to Big Bend NP, I'd recommend a trip out that way. If you can go 9hrs, Ruidoso NM will get you into the mountains.