Have you reached that point where you’re just yearning to be in the midst of nature? Has social distancing started taking a bit of a toll on you, and all you can think of is surrounding yourself with the serenity of state or national parks near Dallas? Life as we know it is no longer as we know it. And while you might feel a little cooped up indoors, think of the day you’ll be able to embrace the glorious outdoors again fully. Social distancing in Dallas, like much of the country, is still in effect, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have options to explore nature in Dallas.
Embracing Dallas nature on foot
In uncertain times like these, it’s always best to focus on the positives. Now is a great time to get outside in your own city. Several open trails around Dallas permit visitors as long as they adhere to the city and county social-distancing rules.
Some of Dallas’s popular trails that are great to explore while you observe social distancing norms are the 3.6-mile Cottonwood Creek Trail, the 6.3-mile Preston Ridge Trail, and the 8.4-mile White Rock Creek Greenbelt Trail. The connected 2.1-mile Santa Fe Trestle and Trinity Skyline Trails are both easy walks perfect for a quick lunch-break walk. The White Rock Creek Trail stretches 7.6 miles along White Rock Creek and links to several parks in the area, including the White Rock Lake Park. Keep in mind, if you decide to stop at a park, many park facilities and group areas have COVID-19-related closures. It’s always a good idea to check your destination and call ahead before hitting the trail to the park.
State and national parks near Dallas
While most of the national parks in Texas, like Guadalupe Mountains National Park and Big Bend National Park, still have uncertain opening dates, the Texas state parks have reopened for socially responsible park guests. Cedar Hill State Park is open for day-use activities. Guests of this park must wear face coverings, maintain a six-foot distance from people not in your immediate group, and keep groups of family members to fewer than five people. Since many of the park’s facilities are closed, it’s a good idea to pack what you will need for a safe day in the park. Bring your water, hand sanitizer, and even a blanket for an isolated picnic lunch. You can have a fun time outside, all while respecting the rules of social distancing.
If you live on the eastern side of Dallas, Lake Tawakoni State Park is another park that’s reopened for day-use guests. Lake Tawakoni State Park has the same rules in place as Cedar Hill State Park, and like all parks in the state, facilities might not be in full operation. If you are interested in technology, but you want to mix technology with the great outdoors, Lake Tawakoni has a hidden geocache onsite that could get the whole family involved in a hand-held treasure hunt. Bring everything you need with you, and instead of trading trinkets or handling the cache, take photos of your find, and consider it a practice round. Of course, if you want to spend time away from the computer or phone screen, leave your technology behind. Bring your binoculars and some comfortable walking shoes and spend time searching for birds. Lake Tawakoni State Park is known for its beautiful birds that rest along the edges of the water.
Embrace nature while social distancing around Dallas
The key to being safe while you embrace nature during these unprecedented times is social distancing. The city of Dallas maintains open spaces, parks, and trails for nature lovers to get outside and soak in some gorgeous greenery. Treat yourself and your body to time outside. Sometimes an hour in the sunshine is all you need to recharge your soul.
Team Outdoorsy is here to help you along your journey. If you have questions or concerns about your upcoming RV rental, give us a call at 1-877-723-7232, send us an email, or start a chat. And for a continuously updated list of frequently asked COVID-19 questions relating to RV travel, visit our FAQ page.
