The universe is about to put on a dazzling show, and this time, it's bringing the "ring of fire" to Texas! On October 14, 2023, an annular solar eclipse will grace our skies, captivating young and old alike. But when it comes to watching this celestial spectacle with...
As the annular solar eclipse of October 14, 2023, approaches, you're likely planning a memorable family adventure to witness this celestial wonder. But what can you do to ensure that this extraordinary event leaves a lasting impression on your kids? In this extended...
The annular solar eclipse of October 14, 2023, is rapidly approaching, and it's not just a celestial event; it's a cosmic spectacle that offers a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of Texas state parks while delving into the fascinating world of annular...
Fort Parker features 7 hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty throughout the park with most of these trails nestled along the edge of the river and lake. We found ourselves taking the Springfield Trail. It was a 1.8-mile loop that shared an entrance...
Welcome to “Life in the Outdoors,” a place where I share my passion for outdoor living. I’m Brandon, the voice behind this blog, and my journey began with a visit to Inks Lake State Park on Veterans Day in 2021. After an eight-year hiatus from state parks, this experience rekindled my love for the outdoors. I wanted to tell the stories of my outdoor adventures and, in doing so, inspire others, especially as my children are now at the perfect age to experience the wonders of camping and outdoor life.
My personal connection to the outdoors runs deep, stretching back to my youth in the Boy Scouts. Those early years included everything from camping in cow pastures to conquering the rugged mountains of New Mexico. As life moved forward and my career took precedence, my outdoor excursions became less frequent. Yet, my love for the natural world remained unshaken. Even when I worked on my computer outdoors at a coffee shop, I could feel the magic in the breeze, the songs of the birds, and the hum of the world around me.
One of my favorite outdoor activities is camping, and my trusty popup camper is my reliable companion. It provides a comfortable base to return to after a day of hiking, swimming, and exploring small towns or bustling cities. There’s a unique wonder in setting up camp, being present in the environment, and anticipating the unexpected surprises nature has in store.
During a memorable yet challenging outdoor experience, I hiked in the rugged terrain of New Mexico, near Chimayo. I could hardly contain my frustration during the hike, and if I allowed myself to curse, the expletives would have echoed through the canyons. Yet, despite the pain and discomfort, that journey taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance and the rewards that come when we overcome the obstacles we dread. Over time, the memory of that hike evolved into a source of inspiration and growth.
At the heart of “Life in the Outdoors” lies a simple yet powerful message – the outdoors is accessible to everyone. You don’t need top-of-the-line gear or fancy equipment to venture into the wild. All it takes is a bottle of water, some sturdy shoes, and a sense of adventure. The great outdoors is within reach for each and every one of us.
My hope is this blog will inspire urban dwellers seeking an escape and an opportunity to turn their daydreamed Instagram or TikTok adventures into reality. Additionally, I aim to connect with parents eager to explore the wonders of nature with their young children, even on a budget. Many may have never had the chance to explore the outdoors themselves, and I’m here to provide the guidance and inspiration they need.
A significant focus of this blog will be Texas State Parks, a true gem of the Lone Star State that holds some of the world’s most beautiful natural wonders. Additionally, I’ll feature urban parks, whether it’s from my travels to NYC or simply enjoying the vibrant green spaces in my hometown of Austin.
Join me on this journey, as together, we rediscover the beauty of “Life in the Outdoors” and unlock the adventure that’s waiting just beyond our doorsteps.
With the first Texas Set Park opening in 1937, to others scheduled to open in the late 2020’s the system is alive and well.
This amazing park system features parks across all 10 ecoregions of Texas, where visitors can experience anything from the sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico to the swamps of East Texas, the Blackland Prairie to the Mountains of West Texas. Follow along in our adventures as we explore these parks.
We often find urban parks are gems across cities of all sizes. Whether you’re looking for a respite from the hustle and bustle or you’re looking to gather with others and enjoy an event, these parks are some of the parks we look forward to the most.
From manicured outdoor spaces in city centers to hiking trails and urban oases, we talk about our experiences and things we think you should know about these parks.
