Cedar Hill State Park is a 1,826 acre urban nature preserve located on the 7500 acre Joe Pool Reservoir. The Park's proximity to major metropolitan cities makes it an ideal destination for families who want to enjoy the great outdoors without spending precious time driving.

Dinosaur Valley State Park, located just northwest of Glen Rose in Somervell County, is a 1524.72-acre, scenic park set astride the Paluxy River. The land for the park was acquired from private owners under the State Parks Bonds Program during 1968 and opened to the public in 1972. 

Eisenhower State Park, with 423.1 acres, is located in Grayson County, northwest of Denison on the shores of Lake Texoma.  Some of the activities include picnicking, hiking, biking, nature study, fishing, boating and boat rentals, water skiing, swimming, wildlife observation, ATV and mini bike use (OHV permit required), and a variety of camping.

The preserve offers an Interpretive Center with a nature education library, which is open for scheduled classes and hikes. Trails are open for hikes 365 days a year from dawn to dusk. A pond, environmental education classes and more are offered at the facility. Space in classes is extremely limited and because of their popularity they fill up quickly. 

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden, the oldest botanic garden in Texas, is a lush 109-acre tapestry of dappled shade and vibrant splashes of color. A peaceful haven nestled in the heart of Fort Worth's Cultural District, the Garden is home to over 2,500 species of native and exotic plants that flourish in its 23 specialty gardens

The FWNC&R is a hidden jewel, a wilderness comprised of forests, prairies, and wetlands reminiscent of how much of the Fort Worth/Dallas metroplex once looked.

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is one of the most progressive conservation and education centers in the United States. Drive-thru Safari Park, petting zoo & more.

Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge lies on the Big Mineral Arm of Lake Texoma, on the Red River between Oklahoma and Texas. Established in 1946, the refuge includes 3,000 acres of marsh and water and 8,000 acres of upland and farmland. 

Situated along the shores of a 30,000-acre reservoir Ray Roberts Lake State Park Complex consists of 2 state park units (Isle du Bois and Johnson Branch), 6 satellite parks, Wildlife Management Areas, wetlands, waterfowl sanctuaries and the 20 mile Ray Roberts Lake/Lake Lewisville Greenbelt Corridor.

Birdwatching, water sports, riding horses or backpacking along a scenic trail, Ray Roberts has something for everyone. 

A year-round organic urban oasis filled with natural wonders for visitors of all ages. 10 different themed areas include a butterfly habitat, native wildlife pond, scent garden, shade garden and heirloom garden.

At family events offered throughout the year, children and parents can share the experience of being amazed and inspired by nature's intricate web of life. Gardening workshops and guided tours provide expert advice on using native and adapted plants to create backyard habitats for butterflies, birds and other native wildlife.

Set beside White Rock lake framed by downtown's towers, the Arboretum features 66 acres of superbly of towering trees, flowering gardens and lush lawns. There's something to see year-round from the gorgeous blooms of springtime to the luscious leaves of fall.

Windmill Hill Nature Preserve is 75 acres of land, set aside by the City of DeSoto and Dallas County as a nature preserve. Nestled in woods providing shade in the summer, there is a great hiking trail with gentle slopes and some very steep hills, which can provide a challenge at times.