New Parks Join Texas Public Hunting Program With 521,000 Acres

Texas Parks and Wildlife just made an exciting announcement. Hunters across the Lone Star State now have even more land to hunt on. With the addition of three new state park properties, the Public Hunting Program is growing again, now offering over 521,000 acres of accessible land in 52 of our state parks.

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That’s a big win for Texas hunters, and even better news for the environment, as hunting is conservation to ensure there's enough to eat out there.

Why It Matters for Texas Wildlife and Our Communities

As someone who’s spent years harvesting responsibly, I know firsthand how essential hunting is, not just for tradition, but for conservation. When wildlife populations grow too large, especially in dry West Texas seasons, animals often struggle to find food and water. Hunting helps maintain nature’s balance.

Personally, when I harvest feral hogs, dove, or deer, I share the meat to food pantries and churches across Abilene. A few years ago, I donated five processed feral hogs to local organizations to help feed families in need, and yes, it tasted just like ground beef.

New Hunting Areas Added for 2025

Here are the latest additions to Texas’ public hunting lands:

1. Dinosaur Valley State Park – 1,650 acres
2. Ray Roberts Lake State Park – Isle du Bois Unit – 1,400 acres
3. Post Oak Ridge State Park – 3,100 acres
4. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area – 3,100 acres
5. Government Canyon State Natural Area – 1,000 acres

Read More: Why Indian Lodge Is the Perfect West Texas Getaway

These parks offer not only incredible hunting opportunities, but also a chance to experience the beauty and diversity of Texas landscapes.

Get Ready to Apply July 1

Applications open July 1 for more than 60 high-quality hunt categories through the Texas Public Hunt Drawing system. Or grab the $48 Annual Public Hunting (APH) Permit starting August 15, which grants access to over a million acres for hunting, fishing, hiking, and more.

• Check out all the maps, hunting categories, and how-to guides at:
• TPWD Public Hunting Program

Be Safe, Be Legal, and Respect the Land

Please remember to:

• Follow all state hunting laws and park rules
• Wear proper hunter orange when required
• Honor purple paint markings, they legally mean No Trespassing in Texas
• Always hunt ethically and safely

This is about preserving the land, the wildlife, and our legacy.

Final Thoughts From A Fellow Texas Hunter

This is more than just a chance to hunt, it’s a way to give back. Whether you’re feeding your family or donating meat to help others, responsible hunting plays a vital role in our Texas heritage. With new public lands opening, it’s time to lace up the boots, get your license, and do what Texans do best: take care of nature while enjoying its bounty.