Camy is a native Texan and mom of three who has lived in Sonterra since 2009. She serves her community as vice president of the Jarrell Education Foundation, recently served on the Rezoning Committee for JISD, was a director on the Sonterra MUD Board for five years, and founded the local Facebook group Mom Tribe Jarrell that has over 2,200 members.
COMMUNITY LIAISON Janet Hage
Janet Hage has been part of the Jarrell community for almost 30 years. She has volunteered with JISD, and worked for the City for more than seven years. She is a development partner of NW Wilco, LLC, serves on the Community Library Board of Directors, and was recently appointed to the WIlliamson County ESD #5 board.
All rights reserved. MyJarrellMonthly is published monthly and mailed USPS, free of charge, to homes and businesses in the 76537 zip code. Mail may be sent to My Jarrell, P.O. Box 213, Jarrell, TX 76537. Email: info@myjarrell.com
WHO WE ARE
In an age where the rush of daily news often overshadows the deeper narratives that shape our community, My Jarrell Monthly constantly strives to be an eager beacon of positivity and unity. Far more than just a lifestyle magazine, our publishers and staff are committed to creating a means of getting to know what makes our community thrive—its people and their impact.
Since its inception in 2021, My Jarrell Monthly:
Has grown with the community – we originally mailed to 4,200 homes and businesses in 76537 and now mail to over 9,200 homes and businesses monthly.
Works closely with Jarrell Independent School District, the Jarrell Chamber of Commerce, Sonterra MUD, Jarrell Economic Development Corporation, Jarrell Community Library and Resource Center, and the City of Jarrell.
Is a local business, located in Jarrell, that employs local people.
Has, to date, mailed more than 300,000 magazines within the 76537 area.
But we are also good at doing what we do — showcasing prominent community agencies and initiatives like the Jarrell Education Foundation, Jarrell Community Library, Jarrell ISD students, FFA, 4-H, and many more on our covers and in multi-page features. These not only celebrate their contributions but also inspire readers to personally engage and participate in the missions of these community pillars.
In every story, from first responders and community leaders to the latest events and programs, our purpose is to foster a sense of pride and connection. In short, we believe My Jarrell Monthly is more than a magazine; it is a vital part of the community’s fabric that spotlights advocacy, education, and celebration. We hope you will agree it stands as a testament to what we can all achieve when we choose to focus on the positive and the possible.
A great day taking in the breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon after some of our team attended an energizing training seminar in Arizona — growth and adventure all in one trip! #teambonding
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AROUND TOWN
Gardening Education Blooms in Jarrell
COMMUNITY Jarrell Chamber Gala
25 28
WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"?
Award-Winning State Parks
NEIGHBOR LEIGH Making My Garden Great Again MY UNITING 76537
Jarrell Firefighter Battles California Wildfires
ON THE COVER
From backyard gardens to Texas’ most beautiful botanical escapes, this issue digs into gardening, composting, and road trips that celebrate the beauty of the outdoors.
Education Funding
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WORTH THE DRIVE Texas Botanical Gardens
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Kovalchuk
Growing Together
Gardening Education Blooms in Jarrell
For years, the Green Thumbs Up series has been a go-to resource for budding gardeners and seasoned horticulturists alike in Round Rock, Leander, and Hutto. Now, the Williamson County AgriLife Extension program is adding roots in Jarrell, bringing gardening education tailored to the growing community and its unique environment. “We’re just trying to spread more education within Williamson County, especially in places we haven’t reached before,” says Amy Hays of the Williamson County AgriLife Extension.
The expansion to Jarrell was sparked by local gardener Mary Montalvo, who had attended Green Thumbs Up events in other cities and saw a need for a similar program in her own backyard. She reached out to the AgriLife Extension Office about bringing the free, public series to the Jarrell Community Library and Re-
2025 GREEN THUMBS UP SCHEDULE
April 12: Tree Care Tips
May 10: When to Worry: Integrated Pest Management
June 14: Water Wise
July 12: Out with the Old: Mature Landscaping Design
August 9: Creating a Four-Season Veggie Garden
September 13: Landscaping Your New Construction: Where to Begin on Your Blank Canvas
October 11: Tree Selection in Central Texas
November 8: Severe Frost Management
source Center, and in January, that vision bore fruit. Jarrell’s first Green Thumbs Up session featured Williamson County Master Gardener Pam DenOtter, who introduced attendees to Texas Superstars — plants that have been rigorously tested to thrive in the state’s challenging climate. She shared expert advice on choosing resilient landscaping plants for Jarrell’s rapidly growing neighborhoods and Texas terrain, where gardeners must navigate unpredictable temperature swings and drought conditions.
Each session is held at 10:30am to noon on the second Saturday of each month at the library. To learn more about Green Thumbs Up, visit williamsonagrilife. org and follow the Williamson County Master Gardeners on Facebook.
GROWING COMMUNITY
While Green Thumbs Up brings gardening education to Jarrell, the Jarrell Plant People and Seed Swap group cultivates a thriving community of plant lovers. Founded in 2023 by local gardening enthusiast Kaylee Jo Wilson, the group has become a hub for sharing backyard harvests and troubleshooting common gardening challenges. “It is a great way for us to share seeds, gardening tips, and pest control advice, including those ‘What is eating my plants?!’ moments,” organizer Mary Montalvo says. “It also gave us a way to share the abundance from our backyards with others in the community.”
Jarrell Plant People and Seed Swap, she adds, is simply a group of people who love plants. “So many of us are transplants from other states and haven’t had the chance to learn the challenges of Texas gardening.” It’s one of the reasons she reached out to the Williamson County Extension Office about bringing Green Thumbs Up to Jarrell. “Bringing those experts to our library seemed like the next step. As our community in Jarrell grows, so does the need for gardening education and support.”
Botany buffs can join the Jarrell Plant People and Seed Swap Facebook group, where members swap and barter plant-related items, ask for advice, and stay updated on upcoming events. A Plant People Swap Party is already in the works for spring that will give members a chance to exchange plants and gardening wisdom. Looking ahead, the group hopes to launch a Junior Gardener Program introducing kids to hands-on gardening and community projects. Mary says, “Gardening isn’t just about plants – it’s about fostering real connections and life skills, and we believe the next generation should be part of that journey.”
SPRING INTO GARDENING
ESSENTIAL PREP FOR A THRIVING YARD
As winter loosens its grip, it’s time to wake up your garden and get it ready for a new season of growth. From tackling winter weeds to fine-tuning your irrigation system, Pam Lovelace with the Williamson County AgriLife Extension shares essential tips for creating a beautiful, flourishing garden this spring.
CHECK YOUR IRRIGATION SYSTEM: Cold weather can take a toll on hoses and sprinklers, so inspect your irrigation setup for leaks or damage. If you haven’t already, empty irrigation hoses to prevent cracking from hard freezes.
PREPARE YOUR VEGETABLE BEDS: Give your veggie garden a boost by working compost into the top six inches of soil. Adding a layer of mulch will help lock in moisture and keep weeds at bay.
TACKLE WINTER WEEDS: Winter weeds are already growing, so stop them before they spread. Mow frequently or hand-weed to prevent them from forming flowers and seed heads. To keep summer weeds from taking over, apply a pre-emergent herbicide now.
TEST YOUR SOIL BEFORE FERTILIZING: Spring is a great time to submit a soil sample to determine if your lawn needs fertilizing. If needed, plan to apply fertilizer in mid-April— once your grass is actively growing.
PRUNE YOUR ROSES: February is prime time for pruning shrub roses. A good trim now will encourage healthier growth and more blooms once spring arrives.
STAY FROST-READY: While March 4 marks the average last freeze date for Williamson County, keep frost cloths handy to protect young plants from unexpected cold fronts.
Full House of Fun
1. Business of the Year: Heaven and Hair Salon
2. Newcomer of the Year: Stylecraft Builders
3. Best Place to Work Heritage Broadband
Chamber Gala Celebrates Jarrell's Business Community
In February, the Jarrell Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual gala at the Tenroc Ranch Event Center in Salado to connect, promote, and serve the Jarrell business community. “The Jarrell Chamber’s Casino Night Gala wasn’t just a night of fun, it was a testament to the incredible spirit of our community,” Chamber President Sherry Smith says. “Seeing so many residents, businesses, and community leaders come together to support our mission was truly inspiring. The energy in the room, the generosity shown, and the connections forged will fuel our efforts to build a stronger Jarrell for years to come. We are incredibly grateful for everyone who made this year’s gala such a resounding success!” Sherry also thanked gala committee chair Whitney Hicks and her team for all their hard work that helped make the event a success.
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4. Ambassador of the Year: Megan Mills
5. Chairman’s Award: Brian Davis
6. Civil Servant of the Year: Barry Cryer
by Camy Reynolds • photos by Bethany Miller Photography
HOMETOWN HEROES
by Charlotte Kovalchuk
JARRELL FIREFIGHTER JOINS FIGHT AGAINST CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES
It was 10:30 in the morning in early January when Jarrell firefighter Tyler Lawhorn got a call letting him know he had been chosen for deployment to help fight the devastating wildfires in California. “I didn’t have a whole lot of time to think about it. I went home, checked with my wife to make sure it was okay with her, and headed to Round Rock to link up with their fire department.”
So began the long 21-hour drive to Malibu with a Texas strike team made up of 22 other firefighters from Round Rock, Hutto, Austin, Bryan, Killeen, Kyle, and Morgan’s Point (near Houston). Along the way, Tyler was reminded of the many wildfires he saw while visiting his aunt in Colorado Springs as well as a pasture fire he helped prevent from reaching residents’ backyards in Jarrell. He wasn’t prepared, however, for the surreal scene that awaited him and his team when they arrived in California.
TEXAS FIREPOWER
“There were a lot of green areas and beautiful mountain ranges, but once we crossed a certain line, there was nothing but burnt mountains, no greenery, and lots of houses gone,” Tyler remembers. “I instantly felt overwhelming dread for the people of California. Seeing all the destruction was definitely surreal. I feel for all the people who lost everything, and I gained a lot of respect for all the California firefighters who have been working nonstop to get the fires under control.”
The Texas strike team got to work, doing their best to relieve that burden by extinguishing small fires in
neighborhoods in the Palisades, which allowed firefighters to concentrate on the much more intense blazes in the mountains. “It wasn’t a glory job but it was one of those things that needed to be done and helped take the pressure off the guys who have been working nonstop for weeks.”
With Jarrell’s fire department expanding enough to the point where it can now send firefighters to assist in largescale disasters, Tyler was eager to go and represent Jarrell. “Being able to deploy from our Jarrell fire department and be one of the first guys to go out of state for deployment was incredible,” he says.
In addition to Texas firefighters, agencies from Oregon, Washington, and Colorado joined the effort to fight two of the deadliest, most destructive wildfires in California history before they were declared 100 percent contained about three weeks after erupting on January 7.
BEYOND THE BLAZE
After two strenuous weeks in California, Tyler returned home for some well-deserved rest and time with his family. He was excited to use his experience to bring back “a wealth of knowledge about wildfires in urban settings to my team. It was a cool experience altogether. I’d do it again in a heartbeat. It was a long time away from home and work, but it was rewarding and to be able to say I was part of it is awesome too.”
• photos courtesy Jarrell Fire Department
holytrinityofcornhill.org
mainoffice@holytrinityofcornhill.org 8626 FM 1105, Jarrell
Education Funding
Part 1 ~ “The Rest of the Story”
Few topics energize Texans as much as education. From our earliest days of revolution, when Texian settlers fought for a public education system, to today’s debate over education savings accounts, how our government funds and provides education provokes high interest and emotion.
It is no wonder this is the case, as education is the linchpin of a continued free society. But it is precisely when a topic burns so brightly that we must take a step back and allow cooler heads to prevail. Finding real solutions to complex problems requires putting aside divisive rhetoric and retaliatory politics and getting down to brass tacks.
The Leander ISD Shortfall: Breaking Down the Numbers
One local example came from Leander ISD, which recently announced a revenue shortfall for the coming 2025-26 school year budget. The proposed solution is program and personnel cuts that directly affect students, resulting in a flurry of accusations regarding the exact cause of the district’s projected shortfall.
The district placed blame on the Texas Legis-
lature, claiming in their announcement that the State of Texas “has not increased school funding since 2019 —despite rising operational costs. Many school districts, not only LISD, but our families, likewise, are experiencing a 22 percent rise in inflation.”
Likewise, accusations have come from activists claiming school districts across the state, LISD included, have mismanaged funds by prioritizing bureaucracy over students by hiring administrative staff instead of teachers. But let’s set the rhetoric aside and look at the facts.
State Funding: What’s Really Happening?
LISD’s claim is based on the Basic Allotment, a basic starting amount of funding Texas guarantees school districts for every student in attendance. They are correct that the Basic Allot-
ment has not increased since 2019, but the Basic Allotment is only the first piece of the school funding formula and only represents a portion of their total funding.
In the 2019-20 school year, LISD received $8,341 per student for Maintenance and Operations (M&O), $2,181 more (35.6%) than the $6,160 Basic Allotment. For 2024-25, LISD will receive $9,641 per student, $3,481 more (56.8%) than the $6,160 Basic Allotment.
In the 2023 Legislative Session, the Legislature increased public education funding by approximately $1.8 billion each year — partly from the Golden Penny Yield (which is indexed to the 96th percentile of property wealth—and thus has an inflationary aspect to it) and partly due to new school safety funding.
Additionally, the Legislature is funding the traditional Instructional Materials and Technology Allotment at the historical level of about $1 billion per biennium, and an additional $500 million more to fund the creation and implementation of the state’s newly created Bluebonnet Learning materials and the review and approval of other high-quality instructional materials.
Inflation, Federal Funds, and Financial Planning
And while inflation is a real concern for us all, it was an even bigger concern two years ago — when the Legislature had an additional $4.5 billion in extra funding on the table that failed to pass — partially due to opposition from some school districts, teachers’ unions, and taxpayer funded lobbying from the Texas Association of School Boards, over the inclusion of Education Savings Account in the legislation. Leander ISD was estimated to gain $9,793,850 in 2024 and $15,824,326 in 2025 under that legislation, which would have covered most if not all of the projected shortfall.
Finally, Leander ISD stated they are set to lose $3 million in revenue from expiring federal programs. It should not have come as a surprise to LISD that the federal funding was one-time only and would not be continued.
Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Morath has stated repeatedly, and in fact added a notice in the grant applications, that these funds were one-time and for the districts to not use them for ongoing expenses.
While LISD’s statements about state funding do not line up with the facts, neither do the claims of the critics who accuse LISD of mismanagement of funds.
Since 2016, LISD has increased its ratio from 3.38 teachers for every non-teacher employee to 3.85 in 2023-24, making great strides in their goal to get to 4 teachers for every non-teacher employee. In the 2024-25 school year, the number of
non-teachers increased by 46, the largest increase in at least the last ten years, but this increase was likely due to the state’s new requirement on school security, mandating each campus keep an SRO on staff.
Bureaucracy v. Student Investment: The Staffing Debate
With those facts established, what can be done this year to help support the teachers and programs at LISD?
According to the Texas Education Agency, districts are recommended to keep 60 to 90 days of operating expenses (officially 75) in their fund balance, allowing for a safeguard against shortfalls without tying up too much money that could be returned to the taxpayer.
Based on their 2024-25 budget documents, 90 days of operating expenses for LISD would amount to just over $115 million. LISD’s fund balance currently sits at $171 million, even after taking out $13 million to partially cover the shortfall, $56 million more than the State of Texas recommends.
What’s Next? Solutions for LISD and Beyond
This session, the Golden Penny Yield increases the Texas Legislature have included in their General Appropriations Bill will amount to an increase of $810 million of increased funding to schools.
The 89th Texas House has lined up a slate of bills that will deliver the largest increase in public education funding in Texas history — more than $8 billion.
HB 2 will increase the basic allotment by $220 to $6,380, provide $1.1 billion for small and mid-sized schools, $1.8 billion for special education, and $2.7 billion for teacher raises, teacher training, and operational support.
HB 3 will provide $1 billion for education savings accounts to help parents who need alternative education options.
With the proposed budgets from the House and Senate more than covering current shortfalls, LISD’s decision not to tap into the $56 million excess fund balance demonstrates the true cost of the distrust that has been sewn by so many over the last decade.
When we cannot trust one another, we make cuts instead of utilizing our resources. Lives of teachers, students, and families are disrupted, and students lose access to successful academic programs.
I would encourage LISD to reach out to their legislators more often and directly. When the legislators, who set state budgets, hear from a school district about budget problems via press releases and YouTube videos, that does not suggest that the school district is interested in a healthy working relationship.
I look forward to working with LISD, the Texas Legislature, and Governor Abbott over the rest of the 89th Legislative Session to not only ensure Texas fulfills our duty to provide for quality education for our students, but to also work to rebuild the trust and confidence between those who provide for public education and those who provide the education itself.
The funding challenges facing Leander ISD highlight the broader complexities of Texas' school finance system. While the district attributes its shortfall to stagnant state funding, a deeper look reveals increased per-student allocations, untapped reserves, and missed legislative opportunities. Misinformation and political distrust hinder real solutions, making collaboration between school districts, legislators, and communities essential to securing sustainable, student-focused education funding.
by Charlotte Kovalchuk
TEXAS BOTANICAL GARDENS
Enchant Nature Lovers
All over Texas (map on page 50), lush gardens invite visitors to wander through fields of wildflowers, explore kid-friendly trails, and soak in seasonal spectacles like pumpkin palaces and butterfly migrations. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or a weekend adventure, these gardens offer unique ways to experience Texas’ natural beauty, no matter the season.
1. Zilker Botanical Garden
Right in the heart of Austin, Zilker Botanical Garden offers a little bit of everything, from a peaceful Japanese garden with koi-filled ponds to a prehistoric garden featuring fossilized dinosaur tracks. The butterfly trail, lined with nectar-rich plants, is a magnet for pollinators, while the Hartman Prehistoric Garden transports visitors back in time with its ancient plant species. If you visit in the fall, check out the Garden Festival, where plant lovers can stock up on native species, take gardening workshops, and enjoy family-friendly fun.
2. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Few places celebrate Texas’ natural beauty like the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Sprawled across 284 acres in Austin, this haven for native plants explodes with color each spring, when bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and Mexican hats steal the show.
But it’s not just for flower lovers—families will enjoy the Luci and Ian Family Garden, where kids can climb oversized bird nests, crawl through hollow logs, and cool off by a waterfall grotto. Come summer, the center hosts Luminations, a mesmerizing nighttime event where glowing trails illuminate the gardens, turning them into a dreamy, starlit wonderland.
4801 LA CROSSE AVE, AUSTIN • WILDFLOWER.ORG • 60-MINUTE DRIVE
3. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
If you want a garden that changes with the seasons, this is the place to visit. Spring brings Dallas Blooms, one of the largest floral festivals in the Southwest, with more than 500,000 tulips painting the landscape in a burst of vibrant hues. In the fall, visitors can step into a fairytale at Pumpkin Village, an autumn spectacle featuring 90,000 pumpkins, squash, and gourds. During the holidays, the garden transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland with the 12 Days of Christmas display and a million twinkling lights. Don’t forget Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, where kids can run through a treetop canopy walk, play with interactive science exhibits, and have fun learning about nature.
Nestled near the Louisiana border, Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center is an oasis of vibrant flowers, towering cypress trees, and winding bayous. This 250-acre retreat blends botanical beauty with swampy adventure — hop on an Outpost Tour boat ride and you might spot alligators sunning themselves on logs or herons gliding over the water. If you visit in the fall, don’t miss the Scarecrow Festival, where local artists and businesses craft wildly creative (and eco-friendly) scarecrows that line the garden paths.
2111 W PARK AVE, ORANGE SHANGRILAGARDENS.ORG • 4.75-HOUR DRIVE
WORTH THE DRIVE
5. National Butterfly Center
Imagine stepping into a kaleidoscope of fluttering wings — that’s what you’ll find at the National Butterfly Center in Mission. This 100acre nature preserve is home to more than 200 butterfly species, making it one of the best places in the country to witness these delicate creatures up close. The gardens are designed to attract rare and migratory butterflies, and visitors can meander through lush trails filled with nectar-rich plants. Time your visit for the Texas Butterfly Festival, November 2–5, where you can join expert-led field trips, family-friendly activities, and magical butterfly releases that feel like pure magic.
3333 BUTTERFLY PARK, MISSION • NATIONALBUTTERFLYCENTER.ORG • 6-HOUR DRIVE
6. San Antonio Botanical Garden
A mix of Texas landscapes and tropical escapes, the San Antonio Botanical Garden offers something for every nature lover. Stroll through the desert-like Texas Native Trails, where cacti and wildflowers thrive, or step inside the futuristic Lucile Halsell Conservatory, where orchids, ferns, and lush rain forest plants transport you to an exotic world. Foodies should check out the Culinary Garden, where fresh herbs and vegetables are grown for on-site cooking demos. And if you visit in the winter, don’t miss Lightscape, when the gardens glow with immersive light installations that make for a truly magical nighttime experience.
555 FUNSTON PLACE, SAN ANTONIO • SABOT.ORG • 2-HOUR DRIVE
7. Chandor Gardens
For a garden with a touch of old-world charm, Chandor Gardens in Weatherford is a must-see. Designed by artist Douglas Chandor in the 1930s, this hidden gem feels like stepping into a European estate, with koi ponds, cascad ing waterfalls, and winding stone pathways. The garden’s mix of English and Chinese influences gives it an enchanting, almost mystical quality—perfect for a peaceful afternoon escape. If you visit in spring, the Spring Fling Festival brings live music, artisan vendors, and garden tours to make the experience even more special.
711 W LEE AVE, WEATHERFORD CHANDORGARDENSFOUNDATION.ORG • 2.5-HOUR DRIVE
NOW SERVING BREAKFAST!
WHAT MAKES TEXAS
“TEXAS”?
by Linda A. Thornton
at
Exploring Nature Award Winning State Parks
HAPPY 100TH BIRTHDAY, TEXAS STATE PARKS!
In 2023, they not only celebrated their centennial but also earned the National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. Whether you’re hiking through rugged canyons, swimming in spring-fed rivers, or stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the country, Texas’ state parks showcase the landscapes and history that make the Lone Star State unique.
FROM ROADSIDE STOPS TO IMPRESSIVE PARKS
The story of Texas State Parks began in 1923 with a simple idea—creating roadside stops for highway travelers to enjoy and protect the land. A decade later, President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) transformed these stops into a network of parks, shaping the trails, campsites, and stone structures that many still enjoy today.
Texans have fought to keep these parks accessible for everyone. During World War II, women stepped in to maintain the parks, ensuring their preservation. Before the Civil Rights
Act, Black Texans fought for their right to enjoy these spaces, advocating for integration. By the 1980s, public demand for outdoor recreation led to expansions, securing more land for future generations.
MORE THAN JUST A WALK IN THE PARK
Today, 88 state parks span 630,000 acres, welcoming more than 9 million visitors annually. Beyond hiking and camping, these parks offer ranger-led programs, workshops, and the Junior Rangers program, which introduces children to Texas’ diverse wildlife and ecosystems.
The Top Ten
Want to explore Texas’ best state parks? Here’s a look at the top 10 most visited in 2023 — the parks’ centennial year — each offering something special that captures the heart of Texas.
WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"?
10. Inks Lake
This “Hill Country gem” is a favorite for its clear, blue waters and scenic rock formations. Take a dip in Devil’s Waterhole, where visitors swim, cliff-jump, and explore the surrounding canyon. A short hike leads to Valley Spring Creek’s waterfalls, offering a peaceful retreat. Northwest of Austin, 3630 Park Rd 4 W, Burnet
9. Dinosaur Valley
Step back in time at Dinosaur Valley, where real dinosaur footprints are preserved in the Paluxy Riverbed. Visitors can walk in the tracks of prehistoric giants, explore miles of trails, and even take a horseback tour or a horse-drawn wagon ride through the park. Near Fort Worth, 1629 Park Rd 59, Glen Rose
8. Brazos Bend
Nicknamed a “nature lover’s paradise”, this park’s 5,000 acres of wetlands, forests, and prairies are home to alligators, deer, and countless bird species. Don’t miss the George Observatory, where you can gaze through one of the largest telescopes in the country and chat with astronomers about the wonders of the night sky. Southwest of Houston, 21901 FM Rd 762, Needville
7. Enchanted Rock
A massive pink granite dome rises above the Hill Country, creating one of Texas’ most mystical landscapes. This ancient rock has inspired legends for centuries. Visitors can hike to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views or take a guided rock-climbing tour. 16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg
6. McKinney Falls
This park offers a rugged escape minutes from downtown Austin. Trails wind through dense woodlands and rocky outcroppings, leading to the limestone ledges of Onion Creek, where water cascades into
inviting swimming holes. Explore the historic ruins of an early Texas homestead and a rock shelter used by Native Americans. 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin
5. Ray Roberts Lake Isle de Bois Unit
Home to the Lone Star Lodge and Marina, this park offers a blend of modern amenities and natural beauty. Visitors can reserve an all-terrain wheelchair to explore the park’s trails, ensuring accessibility for all nature lovers. North of Dallas/Fort Worth, 100 P W 4137, Pilot Point
4. Cedar Hill
A true “urban oasis”, this park combines nature with history. The Penn Farm Agricultural History Center tells the story of Texas’ farming heritage, showcasing century-old structures where the Penn family lived and worked. Near Dallas/ Fort Worth, 1570 FM 1382, Cedar Hill
3. Ray Roberts Lake Sanger Unit
On the opposite side of Ray Roberts Lake from Isle du Bois, this park
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
features a full-service marina, boat rentals, and an RV park—a perfect spot for water lovers looking to set sail or fish. North of Dallas/ Fort Worth, 100 P W 4137, Pilot Point
2. Palo Duro Canyon
Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” this breathtaking park spans three counties and is the second-largest canyon in the United States. With vivid red rock formations, dramatic cliffs, and endless trails, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking Texas-sized adventure. Near Amarillo, 11450 Park Rd 5, Canyon
1. Garner State Park
With nearly 500,000 visitors in 2023, Garner State Park takes the top spot. Its crystal-clear Frio River, towering cypress trees, and scenic limestone bluffs make it a summer favorite. Since the 1940s, visitors have gathered for the Garner Summer Dance, a beloved tradition where families dance under the stars to a jukebox in the historic pavilion. North of Uvalde along the Frio River, 234 RR 1050, Concan
Since some parks have capacity limits, purchasing a day pass in advance is highly recommended. Day passes are sold up to 30 days before your visit and only guarantee entry into the park listed on the pass. Prices vary, so it is best to check the website. Texas residents who are 65 years or older qualify for a 50% discount.
Another option is a Texas State Park Pass, which waives park entry fees for you and your same-vehicle guests - with a cardholder present. The cost is $70 for an entire year.
by Ann Marie Kennon
So 2025 has been terrific, and as spring approaches, I'm thinking big. Bold. Tremendous, even. This year, I’m not just gardening. I’m negotiating with nature and closing deals with the soil. I am definitely making my backyard great again. Other gardens? Total disasters. But mine? The best. Believe me.
For starters, when planting tomatoes, I always start big. Only losers start small. My other gardens? Disasters. But this one? The best. I'm working on annexing parts of the front yard for my corn. I will also finish building that trellis border that will keep my dogs out so they don't dig up seedlings and my food will grow ay-lot.
My house's previous owner? The worst in history. The weeds were a total disaster. Nobody’s seen anything like it. Dandelions still show up uninvited, no work ethic, just freeloading off my meticulously seeded lawn. Sad. And don’t even get me started on Bermuda grass. People say you can’t control it. Wrong. When you're as good at growing as I am, you can convince the weeds to leave, and they will be happy to go. People will think I live on a golf course. I know it. You know it. Everybody knows it.
That’s why I’m making aerating great again and we're going to have the thickest, greenest grass in the neighborhood. Other yards? Sad. Patchy. Weak. But mine? Pristine. More well-maintained than a Bucee’s bathroom. And when it comes to lawn maintenance, I'm implementing only the best strategies — big moves, tremendous deals.
Making My Garden Great Again
First of all, if my mower doesn’t cut at peak efficiency — weak, slow, or struggles uphill — it’s out. Fired. I'm only bringing in top-tier, gas-powered, big-engine mowers that make lawns great again.
Also, I always make great deals for pollinators, and I will unleash only the best, most nectar-first flowers for them by early summer. The most luxurious blooms you’ve ever seen because, frankly, my whole planting season will be about winning.
You will never see such growing like in my backyard. Real winners— to attract the best pollinators. Bees? They’ll be lined up like it’s Chick-fil-A on free-nugget Saturday. Hummingbirds? Shimmers everywhere. They’ll say, "Wow, this garden is terrific." Other yards? No shimmers. Sad.
My neighbor, Alan, has thoughts. He is next level — burning the candle at both ends with a flamethrower. He has a lot of money and is very hard core. He's dark mulcha. He told me, "If a plant can’t innovate, adapt, and thrive in Texas conditions, it doesn’t belong here. This isn’t a charity. My garden will be a hyper-optimized, multi-plot, agricultural powerhouse."
Very inspirational. He even got me to try composting, but that was a disaster. Thought I’d save the planet, be a hero. Worst decision in history. A total disaster. It smelled like failure mixed with regret, and raccoons held nightly raves. Not good.
Look, I run a tight operation here. This lawn? It’s well-maintained. It’s thriving. And I’m not about to let raccoons waltz in and take advantage of
my hard work. That’s why I’ve implemented strong hedge line security — only the best critters get through. Butterflies? Welcome. Hummingbirds? VIP status. But grubs, fire ants, and those freeloading aphids? Insect Control Enforcement is on the job 24/7. No weak spots. No open fence lines. I’ve got a wall of marigolds so strong, even the most determined pests won’t cross it. Other lawns? Total disasters. No enforcement. No plan. Just wastelands overrun by crabgrass and gophers. It's very sad. But my lawn? Thriving. Winning. The best.
Texas drought? Look, I know water. I know water better than anyone. Other lawns? They suffer. They struggle. They whine about rain shortages. Sad. But my lawn? I’ve got strategic irrigation, smart watering schedules, and rain barrel investments that frankly, put the neighbors to shame. I'm bringing so much water, my plants are going to beg me to stop.
But once the deals are sealed, the weeds are fired, and my garden is huge — bursting with the best, most amazing flowers and vegetables you’ve ever seen — it’ll be time to sit back and enjoy the fruits of my labor. Literally.
I’m talking fresh, winning food straight from the garden to the plate. I’m telling you, we will grill, baby, grill, because nothing says success like char marks on homegrown corn on the cob. Frankly, it's going to be the greatest backyard feast in history. Believe me.
