Located in a semiarid, sunny region in the western part of the state, the city of Odessa, TX, is close to several parks and nature reserves where locals and visitors spend their weekends having picnics with friends, going for hikes, and checking out the landscapes that the area has to offer. If you are looking for some nearby spots where you can escape the city routine, these are some destinations you should check out.
3 Favorite Parks in and Around Odessa, TX
1. Monahans Sandhills State Park
Boasting some of the most impressive landscapes in western Texas, with sand dunes up to 70 feet high, Monahans Sandhills State Park is an excellent destination for an exciting day trip with friends or family. Established in 1957, this park covers an area of almost 4,000 acres and is managed by the state of Texas and the Sealy-Smith Foundation. Monahans Sandhills State Park is open year-round between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.
Some of the most popular activities among visitors to Monahans Sandhills State Park include sandboarding, tobogganing, hiking, and photography. This expansive state park is home to various species of rodents, as well as coyotes. The entrance to the park is located a little over 30 miles southwest of downtown Odessa, making it possible to reach it in about half an hour by car along route I-20. The entrance fees for the park are $4 for visitors aged 12 or over.
2. Big Spring State Park
Located just over 60 miles northeast of downtown Odessa, Big Spring State Park is another great destination that can be reached in about an hour by car, driving along route I-20. This public recreation area covers a little over 380 acres of territory and was inaugurated in 1936, quickly becoming a popular getaway for residents from the region. Big Spring State Park can be visited free of charge and is open between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm.
The activities and things to do at Big Spring State Park make it a great spot for families, solo travelers, and groups of friends looking for a break from the routine. Whether you are into hiking, mountain biking, jogging, or wildlife watching, visiting this park is always a good idea. Some of the facilities available at this park include a group pavilion, fully equipped picnic areas, children’s playgrounds, and clean restrooms.
3. Lake Colorado City State Park
Sitting on the western shores of a 1,600-acre body of water created with the construction of a dam across Morgan Creek, Lake Colorado City State Park is a well-known destination among anglers and visitors from Odessa and other cities in the area. This state park offers excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, camping, picnicking, hiking, and mountain biking. Getting here from the city center takes a little over an hour and a half by car, driving along route I-20.
Are you ready for a memorable adventure at one of these fantastic and nearby destinations? Before you leave, stop by Kelly Grimsley Honda! We have an extensive inventory of new and used vehicles, as well as the best financing plans in the area.
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