10 Outdoor Spaces to Explore this Summer

By: Lindsey Neas

As summer approaches, it’s the perfect time to plan outdoor adventures and explore new locations. Whether you enjoy High Plains hiking, relaxing by the water or discovering unique landscapes, here are ten outdoor spaces promising unforgettable experiences this season.

Looking for an adventurous day trip? Located less than two hours from Lubbock is one of Texas’ most beautiful landscapes. Caprock Canyon offers 11 hiking trails ranging in intensity and distance. Most trails are open to hiking and biking, and you can even bring your horse to explore! With various points of interest across the canyon, check out the Fern Cave, Folsom Historical Site, Honey Flat Prairie Dog Town and more. 

The perfect place to beat the heat, Water Rampage is a family-friendly spot that has been part of Lubbock for over 35 years. Enjoy water attractions like the wave pool, lazy river, and water slides. Check out the three unique worlds of adventure: Pirates Cove, Caribbean Adventure, and Future World. Grab a bite to eat from the Snack Shack and order a refreshing adult beverage at Captain Morgan’s Rum Point.

Equipped with equestrian trails, a disc golf course and Lubbock’s famous Prairie Dog Town, Mackenzie Park spans over 248 acres. Perfect for families and individuals, bring a blanket to lounge in the grass, grab veggies and feed the prairie dogs, or strap on your athletic shoes to enjoy the walking trails. Mackenzie Park is animal-friendly and free to explore. 

One of Lubbock’s best trails for hiking, walking, road biking and running, the Buffalo Springs Lake Loop is 5.7 miles of fun. Buffalo Springs Lake also offers fishing, boating, tent and RV campsites, nature paths, riding trails and beaches. Gate admission is open 24/7 with special pricing for children under five, military and police. 

Founded in 2005 by Gerald Dolter and his wife Karen, Moonlight Musicals is an outdoor theater situated on the edge of Mackenzie Park. This venue provides an on-stage experience for local students or residents to enjoy or join in on performances! With shows occurring each summer and fall, check out Moonlight Musical’s website for the schedule. Feel free to bring your own lawn chairs and snacks as you settle in to enjoy this unique Lubbock experience. 

Explore 4.5 miles of trails at Lubbock Lake Landmark to explore true West Texas scenery. The Llano Estacado Wildflower Trail is .5 miles long and is the landmark’s newest addition. The shaded pit stops and benches along the path allow maximum observance of vegetation. Beginning in March annually, the Landmark After Dark Night Hike season will welcome locals and visitors alike. Enjoy a West Texas sunset on this evening hike, starting at 7:30 p.m. and lasting between 75 to 90 minutes. 

One of the most beautiful and picturesque parks in Lubbock, this wide open space features a disc golf course and a fishing-friendly lake. Make your way over to the Mae Simmons 18-hole course and have a great time in some beautiful weather. This course is designed for all skill levels, so grab a frisbee and head to the park! 

Open from 9 a.m. to midnight, this activity is the perfect way to get your golf practice in while sipping a cold beer. The Range has many drink specials, great food options and an illuminated driving range with over 60 golf stations. Grab your friends, family or pets and head to The Range!

Looking for a little more action in your summer schedule? Lubbock’s locally owned and only stand-up paddleboarding company is the perfect excuse to get on the water. SUPLBK is on Dunbar Historical Lake, one of Lubbock’s oldest bodies of water. Rent a stand-up paddleboard, one to two-person kayak or an eight-person armada. A first-timer and family-friendly environment, bring your kids and pets along for an outing on calm waters. 

Wolfforth Farmers Market opens every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. where locals and visitors explore and enjoy local goods. Small businesses sell their products to the community with products such as produce, baked goods, woodwork, home accessories and more. Lookout for market favorites the Wiki-licious for Hawaiian malasadas, Lemon Love Lubbock for a lemonade and Texas Country Produce for fresh fruits and vegetables. Learn more about the Wolfforth Farmers Market here. 

Experience a journey through the heart of Texas wine country with Llano Estacado’s educational wine tours. Discover the skill and passion behind Texas winemaking while exploring one of the state’s oldest and most renowned wineries. The guided tour is led by experts sharing insights into Llano Estacado’s rich history and winemaking process. Love all things wine? Check out the Visit Lubbock Texas High Plains Wine Trail for an interactive mobile pass and explore even more wine throughout the region. 

Conveniently located just outside the Lubbock loop, the Stars & Stripes Drive-In offers a refreshing alternative to traditional movie theaters. Load up the car with friends and family, park beneath the stars and tune in to the audio broadcast through your car’s speakers. With multiple screens showcasing the latest blockbuster hits and classic favorites, there’s something for everyone at the Stars & Stripes Drive-In.