Close to Lubbock is a bit of an exaggeration, as nothing in this part of Texas is particularly close. Even Caprock Canyons – which is the closest park – is far enough away to be stretching it for a day trip.
Two of my favorite parks in Texas are in this part of the state. Caprock Canyons and Palo Duro are both really remarkable parks that offer a unique experience unlike any other park in Texas.
Some of the other parks are realistically probably not worth the drive, unless it is on your way to something you were traveling to anyway.
Caprock Canyons State Park and Trailway
95 miles from Lubbock, Texas
Caprock Canyons State Park is one of my favorite parks in Texas. This park often gets overlooked due to its proximity to the better known Palo Duro State Park, and that’s a shame. The views are stunning, especially at sunset.
There are 90 miles of trails in the park, including the trailway. There are numerous hike-in primitive camping areas, for anyone who is looking for a truly remote camping experience.
The Texas State Bison Herd lives in the park.
Big Spring State Park
106 miles from Lubbock, Texas
Big Spring State Park is one of the original parks built by the CCC and opened in 1936.
The park does not offer any camping, and is only open for day use. Due to the distance from Lubbock and the overall lack of amenities in the park, it does not make a lot of sense to visit for a day trip.
If you are doing a larger road trip from Lubbock, then Big Spring State Park is a worthwhile stop on the way. The park has hiking trails, picnic tables, a playground and restrooms.
The park is on the outskirts of the town of Big Spring, which has the elegantly refurbished Hotel Settles and the Hangar 25 Air Museum.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
111 miles from Lubbock, Texas
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is a must-see park. Known as the Grand Canyon of Texas, it has the second largest canyon in the United States. At 28,000 acres it is also the second largest of the Texas state parks. The park was built by the CCC and opened in 1934.
There are thirty miles of trails, with many of them open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. If you bring your own horse, you can reserve an equestrian campsite. If you didn’t bring your own horse, book a guided horseback tour through Old West Stables.
During the summer months the TEXAS Outdoor Musical is put on in the evenings. Tickets are an additional fee, and must be booked in advance. There’s even an option to have a chuck wagon barbecue dinner before the show, for anyone who loves brisket.
Lake Colorado City State Park
118 miles from Lubbock, Texas
Lake Colorado City State Park has lots of campgrounds. It is built on the shores of Lake Colorado City, and offers plenty of water recreation. The park has a dedicated swimming area and a fishing pier. There is a boat ramp, and the park rents kayaks to use in the lake.
Copper Breaks State Park
162 miles from Lubbock, Texas
Copper Breaks State Park has campsites, including primitive hike-in campsites for people looking for a more remote experience. The park is a dedicated dark-sky park and has optimum stargazing.
There is a dedicated swimming area in Lake Copper Breaks. Fishing is allowed in both the lake and Big Pond. You can also bring your own kayak to use in the lake.
There is a three mile horseback riding trail, and there are equestrian campsites.
Abilene State Park
187 miles from Lubbock, Texas.
Abilene State Park is one of the original CCC parks, and opened in 1934. There are many campsites in the park.
The park is known for the swimming pool, which has a distinctive red sandstone building around it. The pool is open in the summers, but does require an additional ticket and entrance fee.
Swimming is also allowed in the lake, or you can rent kayaks and canoes. Fishing is available in both Lake Abilene and Buffalo Wallow Pond.