Big Spring State Park

#1 Scenic Drive
Big Spring TX 79720
432/263-4931

Welcome to Big Spring State Park

Big Spring State Park is a Texas state park in Big Spring, Howard County, Texas in the United States. It was opened in 1936 after the 381.99 acres (1.5459 km²) upon which it is situated was deeded to the state by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935. It is named for the natural spring once located on the site that was later replaced by an artificial one.

History
The first written record of the spring was made on October 3, 1849, in the journal of Captain R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry while on his return trip to Fort Smith, Arkansas, from Santa Fe, New Mexico. 

The Spanish are thought to have visited the area as early as 1768, while Comanches and other American Indian groups likely frequented the region much earlier, probably attracted by the permanent water source. Carvings dated circa 1917 indicate that other visitors to the park area included cattle drivers and those traveling to new territories.

Shortly after the state of Texas acquired the land in 1934, the Civilian Conservation Corps began construction on the park. Limestone quarried on-site was used in the building of the headquarters, pavilion, lodging, pump house and restroom. The limestone was also used in the building of retaining walls for a three-mile drive that loops around Scenic Mountain. The walls were built using mortar-less masonry techniques with large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons.

Facilities
Facilities at the park include eight developed tent sites with nearby water and two sites with water and electricity on-site. All campsites have on-site parking, a shelter over a picnic table and a grill. 

Other facilities include a lighted group pavilion, which can accommodate up to 50 people; restrooms with no showers and a Texas State Park store. American Indian artifacts and fossils from the area are on display at a seasonal interpretive center, which is also located in the park.

Activities

Dramatic views off of the 200-foot bluff and from the CCC-built loop road is one of the featured attractions of the 382-acre park. Early morning or sunset, joggers, walkers, and cyclists circle the loop, enjoying these views as they exercise. An elaborate Fourth of July fireworks display is one of the largest in the region. 

Other activities include picnicking, nature study, and sightseeing.