From now through April, you’re likely to spy bluebonnets alongside the road no matter where you’re driving.
But why see just a few stragglers when you can bask in a field of bluebonnets (taking care not to trample — or pick! — the state flower)? We have some suggestions on where to find these Instagram-worthy backdrops — several of which are a short drive for Bryson residents.
Brushy Creek Lake Park
Just 10 minutes from Bryson is Brushy Creek Lake Park, 90 acres of picnic areas, nature trails, sand volleyball courts and waterways for fishing and kayaking. Pack a picnic and then walk off lunch along nature trails lined with bluebonnets and other wildflowers.
Old Settlers Park
Old Settlers Park in Round Rock might be known more for its sports amenities (disc golf, baseball, softball, soccer and more), but it’s also known for its wildflowers. With 640 acres, there are plenty of places to picnic and walk around to see the flowers. And only 20 miles from Bryson, it’s a perfect place to spend an afternoon.
Burnet
When Bryson residents want to get more serious about viewing bluebonnets but still not venture too far from home, they head to Burnet. Less than 30 miles from Bryson, Burnet is along the Highland Lakes Bluebonnet Trail, which takes you to several Hill Country destinations to see bluebonnets. Burnet is also home to the annual Bluebonnet Festival, scheduled for April 9-11.
Marble Falls
Also along the Highland Lakes Bluebonnet Trail is Marble Falls, about 35 miles from Bryson. The picturesque Bluebonnet House makes a stop in Marble Falls a must for anyone wanting to view colorful fields of blue.
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
With “wildflower” in its name, it’s no surprise the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center would be among the recommended places to see bluebonnets. The center is open all year long and you can visit the website to learn what’s in season. In addition to looking at the flowers, you can bird watch, watch butterflies at the Woodland Garden, hike to the top of Observation Tower and eat lunch at Wildflower Café.
McKinney Falls State Park
McKinney Falls State Park, about 38 miles from Bryson, is another place to see bluebonnets as well as hike, bike, fish, swim and even camp. The park offers 726 acres, with fields of bluebonnets and other native wildflowers when in season.
Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area
For those wanting to hike alongside bluebonnets rather than simply drive by them, Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area in Spicewood is worth the visit. The park boasts a 5.4-mile loop trail that traverses along a number of blooming wildflower fields.
A Little Farther Out
Plan a weekend trip and visit two iconic Texas small towns known for fields of bluebonnets as well as other things. Drive around the farm-to-market roads surrounding Brenham and you’re sure to spot fields of flowers. Visit online to download a recommended map of 80 miles to explore. Also stop by an art gallery to see their beauty captured on canvas — and maybe even purchase one of these masterpieces to take home. And if Brenham sounds a little familiar, it’s probably because of that creamy Texas treasure — Blue Bell Ice Cream.
Ennis is famous for its 40 miles of bluebonnet trails, curated by the Ennis Garden Club. Each year, club members drive the trails, reporting to the Ennis Welcome Center on bloom status so visitors can be assured of beautiful vistas. Plan your trip for April 16 and 17 to attend the Bluebonnet Trails Festival, which will include arts and crafts, food, live music and children’s activities.
