West Texas Wonders
Get ready to head west for the ultimate state park summer high adventure! We are hitting the road to visit the high desert for a five-day journey through some of the most stunning and diverse ecosystems in the Lone Star State. This isn't just a camping trip—it’s an outdoor skills intensive designed for Girl Scouts who are ready to level up their backcountry game.
From the dunes of Monahans Sandhills State Park to the deep-space views of the McDonald Observatory, we’re exploring the best of the west!
The Adventure Itinerary:
- Fort Davis State Park: Our home base for three nights! At over 5,000 feet in elevation, we’ll experience the unique “sky island” ecosystem of the Davis Mountains State Park.
- Monahans Sandhills State Park: Experience the “Texas Sahara.” We’ll explore these massive, shifting dunes and learn how life thrives in the sand.
- Balmorhea State Park: The ultimate desert oasis! We’ll spend a day at the world's largest spring-fed swimming pool, where the water stays a refreshing 74–76 degrees year-round.
- McDonald Observatory: A special night event under some of the darkest skies in North America. Let’s explore distant galaxies through world-class telescopes.
Outdoor Focus:
- Advanced tent camping, outdoor cooking, and adventure skills
- Ecosystem education
- High-altitude hiking
Additional Information:
Texas heat is no joke, but West Texas holds a secret: Elevation! Because we’ll be staying in the mountains, the humidity is low
and the nights are significantly cooler than in Central Texas.
We’ve designed this trip with a “Beat the Heat” strategy: We will get up and out for early-morning activities. Additionally, our visit to the crystal-clear, icy waters of Balmorhea is the perfect mid-week reset to keep everyone refreshed and ready for more.
This trip will be chaperoned by Girl Scouts of Central Texas staff. Transportation will be provided from Austin. Other pick up points available include Llano, Brady, and San Angelo. Specific schedule to be announced based on participant selection.
Timeline:
- May 24, 2026 - Applications close
- May 28, 2026 - Acceptance letters sent
- June 1, 2026 - Registration deadline (link to registration will be in the acceptance letter)
- July 8, 2026 - Final paperwork due