We love the outdoors, and contrary to what many may think, Texas has some really nice parks and recreational areas. As a frequent visitor of these parks, I noticed that there is little to no information about whether you should bring a stroller or carrier for the little ones. I think carrier is always the safest choice, but it can be uncomfortable and hot, especially in the Texas heat.
I have compiled a list of parks in Texas, along with my recommendation of stroller or carrier. I hope this helps as much as it would’ve helped me prior to going. My learn is your gain! This will be a running list and I will keep making updates as they come.
Lost Maples State Park: Definitely a carrier (Not stroller accessible)
Garner State Park: Carrier (with exception of the Old Entrance Road Trail it’s paved)
Photo Taken from Garner State Park Site
Colorado Bend State Park: Carrier
Hamilton Pool Preserve: Carrier
There is a hike down of several steps to the natural pool
Enchanted Rock: Carrier
Photo Taken From Enchanted Rock State Site
McKinney Falls State Park: Both, Stroller for Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail
Photo Taken by McKinney Fall State Park site
Big Bend National Park: Carrier
I have not had the pleasure of going here yet, but hoping to rent a RV and go in the fall. There are 2 trails noted as wheelchair accessible - Panther Path and Window View Trail - so I bet a stroller could be used.
Photo Taken by National Park
Palo Duro Canyon: Both, Carrier for all trails EXCEPT Pioneer Nature Trail
Did you know that these are the second largest canyons in the U.S.? Yes, in Texas. No I have not been here, but I felt this one was worth mentioning as well.
Photo Taken from State Park site
Brazos Bend State Park: Both, Stroller for Creekfield Lake Nature Trail, Carrier for all others
Mammoth National Monument - Stroller
Krause Springs: Due to stairs, a carrier, but you could carry a small stroller down the steps.
Guadelupe Mountains National Park: Both, Stroller for Manzanita and Piney Trail
Photo Taken by National Park site.
Monahans Sandhills State Park: Carrier
Never been but looks super cool!
Taken from the state site
Shangri La Botanical Garden: Stroller
There are several other parks and recs, I will work on continuing to update this list. If it is stroller friendly, it is also wheelchair accessible. I hope this list helps!!!
Since we are on the topic of carriers, wanted to share one that I like, HERE.
Thanks for reading! XOXO