One of Texas’ first State Parks, Mother Neff is full of history. Â See all of the incredible Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) touches all throughout this park. Â
One of the best Camp Sites we've ever had!
With only 20 camp sites, I think it’s safe to say that this campground is small.  Don’t let its size fool you!  This is one of the best sites we have ever had.  All sites have full hook ups (FHU), are mostly level, and have a beautiful area all around the picnic table.  This area gives you extra space if you’re in a RV or trailer OR a wonderful spot for your tent.  We also loved how much vegetation was around each site.  You get great privacy and feel secluded even though the next site isn’t that far away.  BEWARE!  There are cacti and sticker plants within the vegetation.  Our daughter had a run in with one so watch out while you’re hanging out at your site.  Park & Campground MAP If you’re planning on camping at Mother Neff, I’d make a reservation.  This park fills up fast!
History
It’s hard for me to do justice in telling you all about the history at this amazing state park.  Check out the history page on their website for all the goodies.  The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built this park between 1934 and 1938 after the Neff Family donated the land in the early 1920s.  So much history!
Hike
The 6 trails within this park can all be accessed from the campground which is a hikers dream while you’re camping. Â We chose to do a combination of 3 trails in order to make a loop that left and returned from the same spot. Â The Tower Trail, Cave Trail, and Wash Pond Trail, are all easy/moderate hikes and when you combine them together you get a great 1.3 mile trail. Â Â TRAIL MAPÂ We started out on the Tower Trail which has some great nature signs to help you navigate the landscape. Â
Your first stop is the bird blind. Â They have so much information about the native birds and its a great educational tool for all ages. Â We sat for a while and waited to see if we could catch a glimpse of any birds. Â A few came by which was a delight to our daughter.
Rock Tower
After the bird blind, you’ll quickly come to the CCC Rock Tower. Â Walk up to the top of the tower and take in the best view in the park!
Head out from the tower and towards the cave trail. Â On the way, you’ll pass the CCC Table. Â More history!
Cave
I wouldn’t call this your typical cave. Â It’s not very deep and you can’t really go into it. Â However, we really enjoyed exploring this area. Â If you’re not up for hiking to the cave, there is a parking area you can drive to and then walk down a few steps to see the cave. Â A nice alternative! Â Leave the cave and head back the way you came. Â You’ll come to the Wash Pond Trail that will lead you back to the campground. Â On the trail, you’ll pass the wash pond which was more like a dry pond while we were there. Â Probably just need a good rain to fill it up.
Play
Mother Neff does not disappoint when it comes to the playground. They have TWO! We were easily able to walk to the first one from our site. This first play area is named NATURE PLAYSCAPE. I just love that! What a fun name. This area is more for a younger child, although our 8 year old enjoyed it. They have a giant armadillo, slide, picnic tables, digging area, and a game space. Take the trail from the playscape and it will lead you to the other playground. This area is more of a traditional playground with monkey bars, climbing area, slide, and swings for all ages. The trail is beside the road so be careful on your way.
We had such a great time at this State Park. Â It’s a wonderful weekend spot for locals. Â You could stay here for a week, but there’s not much to do. Â It does have full hook ups so why not!
Consider the Wonders is not affiliated with Mother Neff State Park, Texas State Parks, or Texas Parks and Wildlife.
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