While Sam Houston State offers a wide variety of outdoor amenities, stepping off campus immerses students into even more of the countryside.
Located in the middle of the Piney Woods, Huntsville is home to both the Sam Houston National Forest and Huntsville State Park, two widely-recognized scenic environments. It is also home to a number of local parks aimed toward a wide variety of visitors, from small children, to pets, to athletes.
One of the most popular outdoor attractions is just feet away from the edge of campus. As part of the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, the Duck Pond is a well-known escape from the stresses of college, as the museum’s grounds also feature the historical Bear Bend Cabin, Steamboat House and other historical artifacts. It is located on the corner of 19th Street and Sam Houston Avenue. It is free to visit, and has a variety of seating, from picnic benches to a gazebo. It is home to a variety of ducks and chickens, as well as history about Gen. Sam Houston himself.
Eastham Thomason Park, located on 1500 7th St. and N Avenue, is a free park for all ages. It is home to walking and biking trails, a nine-hole Frisbee golf course, an aquatic center, playground and both volleyball and basketball courts. It also features several foot trails specifically for bird watching, as well as a designated wildflower area.
Just down State Highway 75, Kate Barr Ross Memorial Park is perfect for those wanting to play some sports. Located on 486 State Highway 75 N, the park is free to enter. Equipped with a basketball court, soccer field and baseball and softball diamonds, it is the ideal place to get out some energy. It also has BBQ pits and gazebos, perfect for spring get-togethers.
Pineview Park is the best place to bring furry friends. Located at 2335 23 St., this dog park has picnic tables, benches, water fountains and is surrounded by trees.
The most notable outdoor attraction, the Huntsville State Park, does come at a price. Open from 6 a.m. through 10 p.m., the state park is located just down Interstate 45 on 565 Park Road 40 W. It is a $7 entry fee for those over 12 years old, but with that comes access to over 21 miles of accessible trails, a 210 acre lake and multiple playgrounds. There is also the option to rent kayaks, campsites, shelters and pavilions for an additional cost.
However, many students don’t realize the wide variety of nature that is available at the tip of their fingers.
“The only time I’m purposely outside is when I’m walking to and from class,” junior marketing major Bryana Quinones said. “My friends and I always complain about the limited walkable paths or nearby benches within Huntsville, so we always find ourselves cooped up inside and it takes a toll on my mental health for sure.”
With the warmer temperatures coming up, students will have the chance to spend time outdoors with each other.
“Being in nature is a nice step back from the busyness of life,” sophomore mass communication major Jacob Kim said. “My friends and I like to hang out outside, especially to complete schoolwork.”
It is proven that spending time outside has countless benefits to physical and mental wellbeing, so take advantage of the amenities Huntsville has to offer.
