Texans for State Parks Conference 2025 & Awards Presentations
State Park enthusiasts from across Texas gathered at McKinney Falls SP in Austin to share their success stories and ideas at Texans for State Parks Annual Conference on March 29 and 30. The conference began Friday evening with a social and programs featuring activities by the Friends of Big Bend Ranch State Park and Friends of Ink Lake State Parks.
Saturday, attendees heard exciting news from keynote speaker Rodney Franklin, Director of Texas State Parks, who excited the crowd with pictures of the recently purchased property that will soon be Post Oak Ridge State Park, as well as updates on Palo Pinto Mountains and other developments in the park system. Director Franklin shared his enthusiasm for parks and noted that this is indeed an exciting time for Texas, as the agency is looking to acquire and develop new parks for the first time in decades.
The conference also provided an opportunity to recognize outstanding staff members and volunteers that make each of the sites a special and welcoming place for visitors. These winners, listed below, were nominated by their peers, who see their contributions every day and are most aware of the continual efforts to go above and beyond in their service to our parks. Please join me in saying “thanks” to each one for their exemplary work.
I also want to give a big “Thank You” to the Friends of McKinney Falls and the park staff for their support of the event. I hope you will join us again at next year’s conference!