Franklin Mountains State Park - Texas

Address:1331 McKelligon Canyon Road
El Paso, Texas

The largest urban park in the U.S., Franklin Mountains covers 37 miles within the city limits of El Paso, Texas. Adorned with colorful native American pictographs seen in rock shelter and deep mortar pits, the mountains' beauty inspired their protection by conservationists who wanted to ensure their enjoyment by many future generations. Today, indeed, visitors are invited to hike and mountain bike on the many trails, as well as rock climb. Camping is available here among the remarkable wildlife who call this park home, as are ranger-led tours on the first and third weekends of the month. And if you drop by for a visit, be sure not to miss September's Chihuahuan desert fiesta.

Situated on the south bank of the scenic Willamette River, Champoeg's acres of forest, fields, and wetlands recreate the landscape of a bygone era. Tour the park's visitor center, Newell House, and Pioneer Mothers Log Cabin museums to discover pioneer life at Champoeg. Take a guided walk to learn what happened to the bustling pioneer town of Champoeg, and how the Donald Manson Barn was built (download the park's day recreation brochure - 1.3 MB); requires Acrobat). An 1860s-style garden lies next to the visitor center. The park also includes the Historic Butteville Store founded in 1863. It is considered the oldest operating store in Oregon. The store is the last commercial vestige of the once thriving Willamette River community of Butteville. The Friends of Historic Champoeg operate the store Thursday - Sunday and holidays from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.