Franklin Mountains and Hueco Tanks can be done as day trips from El Paso, but the other parks take hours in the car to get there from El Paso.
It is quite a stretch to refer to Big Bend Ranch State Park as close to El Paso, but the entire point of the park is how far away from everything it is. So in light of how much I like Big Bend Ranch, I went ahead and included it anyway.
Franklin Mountains, State Park
Located in El Paso, Texas
Franklin Mountains State Park is located within the city of El Paso. At 40 square miles, it is the largest urban park in the United States. There are primitive campsites within the park, but none of them have water.
The park has over 100 miles of trails for hiking or mountain biking. Be prepared for the harsh climate and rugged terrain. There is even mountain climbing in designated areas.
Hueco Tanks State Park
38 miles from Downtown El Paso
Hueco Tanks State Park is on the outskirts of El Paso. The park has more rules and restrictions than most state parks do in order to protect the petroglyphs. The park is known for these petroglyphs, which have been studied by archaeologists.
Many parts of the park are only accessible with a guided tour that must be booked in advance. There are also significant limitations on dogs in the park.
While it is possible to camp in the park, most people only go for day use.
The park has rock climbing. You must bring your own equipment. Reach out to the park in advance if you plan to climb, many parts require a guide.
Balmorhea State Park
188 miles from El Paso, Texas
Balmorhea State Park is known for the amazing swimming pool. This pool was built by the CCC in the 1930s, and is one of the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pools.
The deepest part of the pool is 25 feet, and people are allowed to scuba dive in the pool for an additional fee.
The park is located just off of I-10, putting it on the route between El Paso and San Angelo, or San Antonio, or even Houston.
Davis Moutains State Park
204 miles from El Paso, Texas
Davis Mountains State Park is located near Fort Davis, Texas. It is a popular tourist location because of the nearby McDonald Observatory.
The park opened in the 1930’s and was one of the original CCC parks, including the Skyline Drive. The park has campgrounds and hiking trails. Inside the park is a full service hotel that has a restaurant and a swimming pool.
Monahans Sandhills State Park
253 miles from El Paso, Texas
Monahans Sandhills State Park is a very unique park with sand dunes that are built up throughout the park.
There are no hiking trails, and instead you can just wander around in the sand and climb on the dunes. The park rents and sells plastic disks that can be used like sleds on the sand dunes.
You can camp in the park.
Big Bend Ranch State Park
285 miles from El Paso, Texas
Big Bend Ranch State Park is the largest of the Texas state parks and even has its own airstrip for people who arrive by plane. There are over 238 miles of trails in the park, for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
The park is known for amazing stargazing, and is a popular location for astrophotography. It is recognized as a dark sky park.