Palmetto State Park

 Welcome Y'all!

Can't believe we have only a few more weeks left in this year. It just feels like things were slow-mo till March and everything else feels blurry and here we are halfway through October already. I wouldn't quiet say extra time in hand due to working from home; however there has been several opportunities to focus on learning this year especially with several organizations offering a discount or even free content to up-skill. 

Never a fan of history, with these recent travel to be with nature due to Covid-19, I have intentionally spent time learning and becoming more aware of the historic significance of several places in the Lone Star State - Texas. One such place that made me just wonder the extend to which science was applied several decades ago is Palmetto State Park. 

Tropical paradise during golden hour

 

It felt very relevant to be visiting this particular park during the pandemic when unemployment claims plummeted. This park dates back to the 1930 during Great Depression when unemployment rates were as high as 25% when several men joined the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) to build parks, amenities and recreational areas for the community while indeed creating opportunities for employment paying $30 a month in wages, plus amenities and education. Here is one of the ram jet pumps from 1930s installed by CCC (for most which was their first job ever) that is still functional. I think this is cool and inspiring for anyone to believe in their potential and move forward to create opportunities even during truly trying times. Here is a picture of the pump. I encourage you to explore the artisan wells and other significant areas in the State Park if this is your cup of tea. #TXhistory

 

Ram Jet Pump installed in 1930s by CCC

On to the nature side of the park's history, dwarf palmetto is the park's mascot and can be found in plenty throughout the trails. Swampy lands is where these plants thrive and this region is still one of the few that offers a soiled land. As this was one of our early Friday evening visits, we caught the Ottine Swamp Trail during the golden hour and see for yourself how gorgeous it looks. Beware of snakes and red-shouldered hawks - co-existing and moving away is the mantra. 

Sunset by the San Marcos river and Artisan wells

Also for water lovers, the San Marcos River and the trails along the path offers fishing, swimming, kayaking (onsite rental with online reservation options), biking and hiking. While this is not one of those larger parks, it is cozy and neat for a weekend camping and quiet time to be one with nature. 

Oh, oh, oh do not forget to get a glimpse of several deers closer to sunset. When I say several we saw a village of them and that's all it took to bring joy to the little human who hiked with us throughout :)

 

Grateful to be able to travel during these times and never thought a day would come when similar travel feels like a luxury. Have you visited the Palmetto State Park? If so, I would love to hear your experience and what it felt to explore through your lens. Leave your comments below please. 

Cheers, 

J :)