The landscape as you drive I-20 in West Texas is flat. Really flat. It is literally mile after flat mile of basically the exact same view, which isn’t necessarily bad. It can, however, become monotonous. Which is why you take the five minute detour when you see the one raised portion of earth in Big Spring jutting out of it’s utterly flat surroundings.
We have visited Big Spring State Park twice now and both times it served as a fabulous diversion from the monotony of travel and lent fresh eyes to the vastly flat West Texas landscape. Our first visit was years ago in the heat of a hot Texas summer afternoon. Even with the soaring temps, BSSP was sprinkled with locals walking pets, running, and hiking it’s winding incline. Our second visit in mid-July 2018 was just after the gates opened at 8am and it was again populated by locals getting their exercise on during the cooler part of the day. Young. Old. Two-legged, or four. Everything in-between. BSSP is absolutely loved by the locals and even the hottest day of the year doesn’t keep them from enjoying their park.
And here’s why –
Why We Love Big Spring State Park
- Free. That’s right. Visiting this Texas State Park is absolutely FREE. You literally have nothing to lose and elevation to gain. Go for it.
- Views. Appreciate the vastness of the West Texas landscape from the Big Spring State Park vantage point – 200 feet up!
- Inspiring. If you need motivation to get moving, look no further than the parking lot of BSSP. The cars arrive before sunrise to claim one of the limited spots at the bottom of the bluff while its inhabitants get their exercise on. Walk your dog. Hike. Run. You will be inspired toward fitness at BSSP.
Must Do’s
- Early or Late. You’ve got to treat yourself to a spectacular West Texas sunrise or sunset. Just mind the times the gates are locked.
- Hoof It. Walk your dog. Hike. Run. Just get out of the car and experience BSSP the right way – on foot!
We’d love to hear about your experiences at Big Spring State Park! Please share your thoughts on this State Park that is loved by the locals in the comments.