Historic Buildings at Fort Richardson Sunset from our Campsite

Springtime is so wonderful in Texas! Nature is waking up and showing its glory! Have you been to any of our State Parks? This past weekend we headed out to check out a little state park in what I would call North Central Texas. We decided to check out the Fort Richardson State Park on the edge of Jacksboro. You can actually drive by and not even notice it if you aren't looking for it! But turn down into the park and you will be surprised by what a nice little park it is. Small for sure but worth a visit. Perfect for a quiet weekend when you want to set up an RV or really rough it and do a little tent camping! There were several father & son groups. (Dads ambitiously setting up their tents and little boys scampering around chasing each other with sticks!) There is something about the happy voices of children that makes me smile! I think their joy is contagious!

The best sites in the park are #22, #23 and nearby. It's a heavily wooded little circle right next to a paved (yes, paved!) hiking trail that runs by a little creek where you can fish if you want! The trail is wide enough and smooth enough so the average Nana (that's what my Grandchildren - I call them my "Grands" - call me) can navigate without too much effort! Don't get me wrong, I used to run every morning - now I stick to a fast walk - but I'm not beyond a good hike! They also have a biking, hiking and running trail that is really nice as well (horses are even allowed)!

Other sites to see:

Check out the historical fort buildings, including the hospital, officiers quarters, the barracks, etc. They open up the historical buildings for guided tours at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm on weekdays. I love tours because you pick up historical tidbits and it just makes the past come alive. They have live re-enactments at different times during the year as well. Talk about history coming alive!! The State Park has an official video showing the park at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svPfGoL8lwk. Check it out for a preview.

While you're in Jacksboro you have got to try the world famous "Herd's Hamburgers" for the BEST hamburger you ever ate. They aren't pretty but when you bite in you will know why they are famous! It's located at 400 N Main, Jacksboro, TX. Just a block or two off the square. They don't do fries, just the burgers and they sell drinks and bags of chips. You won't be dissapointed there! This is not a posh place but you will be glad you gave it a try. The price is right (cheap) and the burgers are unbeatable.

Head out and enjoy!