August 7, 2023 - The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center (TFFC) in Athens will be closed to the public starting Aug. 28 for major renovations and updates.
The nearly 300,000 gallons of aquariums will be updated, new larger aquariums will be added, the dive theater and other existing indoor exhibits will be updated, and new exhibits will be developed. Enhancements to recreational fishing ponds like Lake Zebco are also included in the renovation project.
July 26, 2023 - In response to continued positive detections of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in deer breeding facilities, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has adopted an emergency rule implementing additional movement and testing restrictions for white-tailed deer in deer breeding facilities.
July 17, 2023 - The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is increasing public fishing and paddling opportunities in the state thanks to the addition of two leased river access sites through the River Access and Conservation Area (RACA) program. The new sites are located on the Brazos and San Marcos rivers, giving the public more options and flexibility to access these incredible waterways.
June 29, 2023 - Across the state, folks are making plans for barbeques and relaxing days on lakes, rivers and the Texas coast to celebrate the Fourth of July. Before taking a dip, Texas Game Wardens urge everyone spending time in the water to remember to follow basic safety precautions while on the water.
Simple steps to take before heading out on the water include wearing a life jacket, learning to swim, using the ignition safety switch, checking weather reports and participating in a boater education class.
May 24, 2023 - With Memorial Day weekend fast approaching, Texas Parks & Wildlife magazine serves up some Lone Star twists on familiar staples that are easy for families to prepare for the campfire or picnic basket.
Recipes include grilled Poteet strawberry shortcake, alambres and even a brisket-laden Texas charcuterie board, and include suggestions for state parks that would make a perfect pairing. The gathering-friendly strawberry shortcake, for example, serves nicely at Village Creek State Park, near Beaumont, where the picnic pavilion seats 80.
May 4, 2023 - Get out the graham crackers, chocolate bars and marshmallows May 13, and head to one of 80 Texas State Parks hosting our official 100th birthday party.
Toast “100 s’more years” of outdoor fun with everyone’s favorite campfire treat. Participating parks offer events to introduce people of all ages and skill levels to the outdoors with s’mores-themed fun, from making solar-baked s’mores to a s’mores-themed star party.
Collectible magazine issue helps Texans find their perfect park and highlights future sites.
May 2, 2023 - Over the next 12–15 years, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) will open six new state parks from Big Bend to the Hill Country and Texas coast. Texas Parks & Wildlife magazine highlights these future getaways in a special May commemorative issue, on newsstands now.
April 12, 2023 - Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) will host two virtual public meetings seeking public input to help determine priorities for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) projects and upgrades to sites and facilities.
The meetings will take place at 6:30 p.m. April 12 and 1 p.m. April 13. TPWD staff will share information about the planning process, answer questions and collect attendee feedback.
April 11, 2023 — Spring has sprung. With extended sunshine and milder days, more people are enjoying the outdoors as native wildlife adds new fawns and hatchlings to their broods. Texans may start to notice more wildlife in their backyard, neighborhood or surrounding areas. The best thing to do is to leave them alone.