My husband and I have a camper.
As much as we like to talk about hitting the open road and being RV nomads, I’m not sure either of us would survive the trip. Instead, we take long weekend getaways around our great big, home state of Texas.
Our go-to camping grounds are the Texas State Parks
- They’re plentiful. Here’s a list.
- There’s space to spare with lots to do.
- They’re economical, especially if you buy a pass.
Our most recent trip was to the Davis Mountains State Park in Fort Davis, Texas.
This postcard picture is from Skyline Drive in the park. The road twists and turns its way up to the a fantastic scenic overlook. Shown in the picture are the Indian Lodge (currently closed for remodeling), the spot we camped, the park’s main entrance off of Texas Highway 118 and, in the distance, the McDonald Observatory.
That’s nice and all, but what about enjoying a glass wine?
Since you are reading a vinotourist article, you may be curious to know the rules regarding alcohol consumption in a Texas State Park.
Can I drink alcohol in a state park?
It is against park rules to drink or display an alcoholic beverage in a public place at any time. All outdoor areas are public in a state park. Also, we cannot sell alcoholic beverages within a state park. Refer to Texas State Park Regulations 59.134 (b).
Texas State Parks and Wildlife website FAQ
As you can see from the picture above, a hefty fine can be imposed if you are caught publicly consuming or displaying your alcoholic beverages.
Public being anywhere in the park that is open to anyone else. Like hiking trails, group picnic areas and floating down the river (if there is one).
Places not considered public are your camper and/or tent.
Outside, hanging around your campsite, on the other hand, is public, given anyone walking by or driving past can see it. This is where discretion is prudent.
The sign says “public…display…prohibited.”
So, as tempting as it may be, save yourself some heartache. Refrain from drinking your wine straight out of the bottle when you’re sitting around the fire pit. Or walking your dog.
Instead, perhaps, invest in a discrete vessel like this…
Available in a slew of badass colors, this tumbler isn’t shaped like a wineglass. So, no park ranger or camp host will suspect you’re sipping a lovely vintage, probably.
**psst** this reader supported site includes affiliate links, like the one above, that provide vinotourist a tiny referral fee should you click and make a purchase on their website **thanks**
All that said, be the person you want to camp next to.
If you’re familiar with Texas, you know there are parts of the state that are still dry. Meaning alcohol is not sold legally within that jurisdiction. Parks within dry areas may be stricter in their enforcement of the drinking rule.
Wine in Texas State Parks! Yes, but be discrete.
A related note about Texas State Parks, some have provisions for sale (but not wine and beer). If you are hoping to enjoy a glass of wine while at a park, plan on stopping for groceries before you arrive.
How about a few more snapshots from the mountains?
Join my email list for more wine-tinted chit chat.
