Soak Up the Summer in Nature
Summertime is the perfect season to embrace the outdoors—and there’s no better way to do that than by visiting a beautiful local park. Whether you’re seeking peaceful nature walks, scenic picnic spots, water activities, or family-friendly fun, Houston and the surrounding area offer no shortage of stunning parks for all ages and interests.
Here at Sheldon Lake RV Resort, we’re lucky to be surrounded by some of Texas’s most accessible and scenic parks. If you’re staying with us this summer or just looking for the perfect day trip destination, we’ve put together a list of our top 5 park recommendations to make the most of the sunny season.
1. Sheldon Lake State Park & Environmental Learning Center
📍 14140 Garrett Rd, Houston, TX 77044
🚗 Distance from Sheldon Lake RV Resort: 5 minutes
Why We Love It:
Right in our backyard, Sheldon Lake State Park is a hidden gem that offers both serene nature experiences and hands-on educational fun. Whether you’re fishing, bird-watching, or exploring with the kids, this park has something for everyone.
Top Features:
- Catch-and-release fishing ponds
- Wetland trails and boardwalks
- Observation tower with panoramic views
- Free guided tours and environmental programs
- Wildlife watching (gators, birds, turtles, and more)
Summer Tip:
Bring binoculars for the best birdwatching at sunrise or sunset, and don’t miss the chance to climb the 82-foot John Jacob Observation Tower for one of the best views of the area.
2. Lake Houston Wilderness Park
📍 25840 FM 1485, New Caney, TX 77357
🚗 Distance from Sheldon Lake RV Resort: ~40 minutes
Why We Love It:
Looking for a true back-to-nature experience? Lake Houston Wilderness Park is a massive 4,700-acre forested escape with hiking, biking, kayaking, and tent camping opportunities—all without leaving the greater Houston area.
Top Features:
- Over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails
- Paddle launches for kayaking and canoeing
- Nature center and wildlife spotting
- Cabin rentals and primitive campsites
Summer Tip:
Rent a kayak or bring your own to paddle along Peach Creek—a cool, shady escape that’s perfect for beating the heat.
3. Discovery Green
📍 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
🚗 Distance from Sheldon Lake RV Resort: ~25 minutes
Why We Love It:
This isn’t your average city park. Discovery Green is a vibrant 12-acre urban oasis in the heart of downtown Houston, ideal for locals, tourists, and RV travelers looking for arts, culture, and family-friendly activities.
Top Features:
- Interactive fountain and splash pad
- Live concerts, fitness classes, and movie nights
- Playground and art installations
- Seasonal kayaking on Kinder Lake
- Dog park, shaded picnic areas, and cafes
Summer Tip:
Check the Discovery Green calendar for free summer events, like evening yoga, concerts, and open-air movies.
4. Brazos Bend State Park
📍 21901 FM 762 Rd, Needville, TX 77461
🚗 Distance from Sheldon Lake RV Resort: ~1 hour
Why We Love It:
One of Texas’s most beloved parks, Brazos Bend is a natural paradise full of wetlands, lakes, and wildlife—including alligators! It’s peaceful, photogenic, and a must-visit for outdoor lovers and amateur photographers alike.
Top Features:
- 40+ miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails
- George Observatory (open select weekends)
- Alligator sightings galore
- Scenic lakeside picnic spots
- Great for birdwatching and wildlife photography
Summer Tip:
Bring bug spray and a zoom lens. The Elm Lake Trail offers some of the best views of gators, herons, and other wildlife up close.
5. Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center
📍 20634 Kenswick Dr, Humble, TX 77338
🚗 Distance from Sheldon Lake RV Resort: ~30 minutes
Why We Love It:
For a quieter, more educational park experience, Jesse H. Jones Park is a favorite among families, nature lovers, and history buffs. With interactive exhibits and immersive programs, this park is as informative as it is relaxing.
Top Features:
- Interactive nature center and trails
- Historic red-cedar cabins and homestead replica
- Wildlife gardens
- Family scavenger hunts and weekend events
- Shady, stroller-friendly trails
Summer Tip:
Check out the Summer Nature Camp or attend one of their living history days—a fun and educational experience for kids and adults alike.
Honorable Mentions (Also Worth the Visit!):
- Buffalo Bayou Park (Houston) – Urban trails, skyline views, kayaking, and bike rentals.
- Mercer Botanic Gardens (Humble) – Stunning floral displays and peaceful garden paths.
- Herman Brown Park (Houston) – Wooded trails and a quiet escape on the east side.
- Armand Bayou Nature Center (Pasadena) – Preserved coastal prairie, forest, and bayou habitats.
How to Prepare for a Summer Park Visit
✅ Stay Cool and Safe:
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothing
- Bring sunblock, hats, and sunglasses
- Stay hydrated—bring at least 1 liter of water per person
- Avoid mid-day heat: go early morning or late afternoon
✅ Pack the Essentials:
- Picnic supplies
- Bug spray
- Camera or binoculars
- Hiking shoes
- Trash bags (leave no trace!)
- First-aid kit
FAQs About Park Visits Near Houston, TX
Q1: Are pets allowed in these parks?
Most parks, including Sheldon Lake State Park and Lake Houston Wilderness Park, are pet-friendly—just keep your pet on a leash and clean up after them.
Q2: Are the parks kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Parks like Discovery Green, Jesse Jones Park, and Sheldon Lake offer interactive, family-oriented activities and educational programs.
Q3: Do I need to pay an entrance fee?
Some state parks (like Brazos Bend) charge a small per-person fee (~$7), while others like Sheldon Lake State Park are free to enter.
Q4: Can I go camping in these parks?
Yes! Lake Houston Wilderness Park and Brazos Bend State Park offer tent camping and cabins. If you’re RV camping, consider Sheldon Lake RV Resort for full hookups, Wi-Fi, and modern amenities.
Q5: What’s the best time to visit in summer?
Early mornings (7–10 AM) and evenings (5–8 PM) offer cooler temps, fewer crowds, and better wildlife sightings.
Plan Your Summer Adventure with Sheldon Lake RV Resort
If you’re ready to explore the natural beauty of Houston this summer, there’s no better basecamp than Sheldon Lake RV Resort. Located just minutes from top parks like Sheldon Lake State Park and a short drive to the city’s best attractions, our resort offers:
✅ Full hook-up RV sites
✅ Gated access and quiet surroundings
✅ Free Wi-Fi and modern amenities
✅ Pet-friendly, nature-rich setting
✅ Ideal location for weekend park hopping!
📍 Stay With Us: 16925 Crosby Fwy, Houston, TX 77049
📞 Book Today: +1 (281) 317-6718
🌐 Reserve Online: sheldonlakerv.com
