Spring is a census-designated place (CDP) located in Harris County, Texas. Before Spring was established, the area was inhabited by the Orcoquiza Native Americans. In 1836, the Texas General Council placed the area within the Harrisburg municipality, and in 1838, a trading post was established in the area on Spring Creek. By 1840, the new town had a population of 153, and throughout the 1840s, many German immigrants moved to the area and started farming. After the Civil War, many people came to Spring from Louisiana and other parts of the South. During this time, the main crops farmed in the area were cotton, sugar cane, and vegetables. Spring saw growth after the International and Great Northern Railroad was built through the area in 1871. The city remained a very small town throughout most of the 20th century, but the population jumped up significantly during the 1980s.
Now, as of 2023, Spring is home to approximately 65,000 people and is most known for its collection of beautiful parks. When you want to enjoy the sunshine, consider heading to Spring Creek Greenway for an afternoon of hiking, biking, or horseback riding on the paved trail. You could also have a barbecue with the family at Meyer Park or go fishing in one of the lakes at Pundt Park. Another awesome option is to take the kids to TGR Exotics Wildlife Park to observe the wallaroos, African crested porcupines, llamas, and other interesting animals.
While you're visiting, you should explore Old Town Spring, where you can explore the historic buildings and spend some time browsing the Old Town Spring Museum. If you're brave enough, you could also attend the spooky Old Town Spring Ghost Walk. If you appreciate the fine arts, you should check out attractions like Thomas Kinkade @ PTL Gallery and the Antique Gallery of Houston. For an evening of games and entertainment with the whole family, stop by Palava Family Entertainment Center. And when you're ready for dinner, you can head to Lynn's Table for a delicious burger or sandwich.
Campgrounds Near Spring, Texas
One excellent campground worth stopping by in the Spring area is the Northlake RV Resort. There, you can grab one of the 230 full-hookup RV campsites for $40 to $60 per night. The campsites can accommodate big rigs, and the campground offers amenities like laundry facilities, a swimming pool, showers, and free Wi-Fi. Plus, the nearby lake offers great opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating.
You could also have a peaceful stay at the Rayford Crossing RV Resort, which has 115 full-hookup RV campsites available. Located conveniently close to downtown Houston, the park features a fully stocked fishing pond, a huge swimming pool, a hot tub, a jacuzzi, and lots of indoor and outdoor activities. The campground also has a helpful staff that's available 24/7
Another quality campground in the Spring area is the Red Dot RV Park. The campground boasts 49 full-hookup RV campsites available for $30 per night. The campsites are spacious and clean, and guests have access to amenities like modern laundry facilities, RV storage, Wi-Fi, and an RV self-wash area.
State Parks Near Spring, Texas
Huntsville State Park is a peaceful natural haven known as a wonderful destination for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. Visitors to the park often get to observe white-tailed deer, raccoons, moles, and over 250 species of birds. The area contains 21 miles of scenic nature trails surrounded by lush forests, offering plenty of great opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnicking. Located on the shores of Lake Raven, the park is also a great place to fish for crappie, perch, bass, and catfish. During your visit, you can even rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboat.
Another lovely park situated on the water is Lake Livingston State Park. The popular family getaway boasts a long stretch of gorgeous shoreline as well as shaded trails that are perfect for hiking and mountain biking. If your preference is water-based recreation, the lake offers superb opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing for white bass and catfish. Other common activities at the park include geocaching and birdwatching.
Situated within an hour of Houston, Brazos Bend State Park is a serene natural area and a fantastic destination for recreational activities. The park contains a cool observatory and nature center where you can learn about the area's ecosystems or set out on a ranger-led hike. There are also 37 miles of scenic hiking trails, many of which are also excellent routes for biking and horseback riding. Additionally, the nearby lake is a great angling spot and even features several fishing piers.
National Sites Near Spring, Texas
Big Thicket National Preserve is located in southeastern Texas and is known for its diverse collection of ecosystems. Within the preserve, you'll find longleaf pine forests, cypress-lined bayous, and even desert landscapes. While exploring the area, you'll want to keep an eye out for basking turtles, unique plants, and over 300 avian species. Some of the popular activities in the preserve include hiking, kayaking, canoeing, and hunting.
If you're a natural history buff, the Waco Mammoth National Monument is a national site you'll absolutely want to check out. The site, which sits along the Bosque River, is home to many incredible fossilized remains of various species. In addition to the fossilized camel, alligator, and dire wolves, the monument features a group of Columbian mammoths that died over 75,000 years ago in an unknown event. While you're at the site, you can get a close look at the fascinating fossils by navigating the Waco Mammoth National Monument Trail and the Waco Mammoth Dig Shelter Trail. You can also have lunch in one of the shaded picnic areas and go hiking or biking on one of the nearby nature trails.
Another unique historical site is El Camino Real de Los Tejas National Historic Trail, which preserves many interesting historical happenings. While exploring the trail, you can learn new things at places like the Villa Antigua Border Heritage Museum and the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum. You could also stop by the Fort St. Jean Baptiste Historic Site or navigate the Floresville Hike and Bike Trail. Additionally, you could stop by several of the area's missions to learn more about the trail's history.
National Forests Near Spring, Texas
Sam Houston National Forest is one of the most beautiful recreation areas in Texas. Situated about 50 miles north of Houston, the forest offers great opportunities for both land and water-based activities. If you're a hiking enthusiast, consider exploring the 128-mile Lone Star Hiking Trail or other popular routes, like the Winters Bayou Trail and the Sweetleaf Nature Trail. Alternatively, you could cast your fishing line in Lake Conroe or Lake Livingston or head to Double Lake Recreation Area to have some fun on the beach.
Davy Crockett National Forest is a diverse area spanning 160,000 acres of lush woodlands. In addition to its densely forested sections, the area contains many babbling streams and various wildlife habitats, offering great opportunities for fishing and observing the local creatures. The forest, which was named in honor of the iconic pioneer, is home to the popular Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area. There, visitors can go swimming, boating, or fishing in the sizable reservoir. They can also camp on the shores of the lake, enjoy live entertainment at the amphitheater, and use the shower facilities in the modern bathhouse. If you'd rather hike across the scenic landscape, a couple of wonderful trails to visit are the Four C National Recreational Trail and the Neches Bluff Trail.
Another national forest worth exploring in Texas is Angelina National Forest, which spans four counties and encompasses roughly 153,000 acres. The forest is known as a top-notch hiking destination, featuring beautiful trails like the Lanana Creek Trail and the Sawmill Hiking Trail. The area also contains the Sam Rayburn Reservoir, which is the largest manmade body of water in Texas and an excellent angling spot. Other popular activities for visitors include geocaching, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and stargazing.
