Endless adventures are ahead, from mountains to Spanish missions.

Texans are famous for their state pride, and it’s easy to see why.

Beyond the bustling cities and charming small towns, there’s still so much to exploreand endless adventures.

Santa Elena Canyon in Big Bend National Park in West Texas

Credit: Tara Donne

Here are 12 noteworthy national parks and sites in Texas to put on your list.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is known for its bright-white Salt Basin Dunes, wildlife-rich grassland, and fossilized mountains.

You’re also able to horseback ride within the park.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

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For those making the trek, expect peace, quiet, and epic stargazing.

The 475-acre park boundaries are exciting to explore via walking or biking along the city’s established Mission Trail.

Daily ranger programs occur at Mission San Jose.

Angell Expeditions leads a river adventure in Santa Elena Canyon.

Credit: Tara Donne

Its main attraction is the 10,000-acre Lake Meredith, which is a reservoir.

Visitors enjoy access to the lake either by private boat or by a rental from the parks vendor.

Explore the area to see where these animals roamed across what is present-day Texas thousands of years ago.

San Antonio Missions National Historic Park

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To see the mammoth bones in the Dig Shelter, sign up for a tour at the welcome center.

Start at the visitor center for an exhibit, artifacts, and a 15-minute video.

Upon arrival, watch a 15-minute video on the history of the fort.

Lake Meredith Texas

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This Del Rio-area attraction is popular for water-based activities such as swimming and boating.

Explore hiking trails that venture through nine different ecosystems, from cypress-lined bayous to longleaf pine forests.

Biking is allowed on some trails, and there are multiple boat launches for paddlers plus guided canoe programs.

Padre Island National Seashore & Laguna Madre (Texas)

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Hike to the quarries through a ranger-led guided tour and learn about this special pop in of flint.

You’ll also find petroglyphs near the Antelope Creek Village site.

nps.gov/alfl; 37084 Alibates Road, Fritch, TX 79036

Waco Mammoth National Monument

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boyhood home of Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park

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United States Army siege cannon U.S. Mexican War Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Park Texas

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Fort Davis National Historic Site

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USA - Mexico Border - Devil’s River at Lake Amistad National Recreation Area

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A Guide to the National Parks of Texas

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Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument

Field of flowers in the desert at Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument, Texas.Credit: Tim Bewer / Lonely Planet Images / Getty Images