Stepping Outside

The story of state parks in Texas is a compelling one, rich with environmental and cultural history. Environmental geographer and scientist Jason P. Julian's visits to each state park, initially for outdoor recreation and then for research, sparked a keen interest in the interwoven natural and cultural history of the parks. Stepping Outside: Nature and Society in Texas State Parks tackles the environmental and sociocultural history of the Lone Star State's parks as they have evolved and offers new perspectives on the multidimensional benefits of the parks. Julian's recounting of his and his family's experiences over a decade provides a deeper insight into how the parks connect people and nature. Incorporating interviews with current and former park superintendents, rangers, and resource managers, this wide-ranging survey gives readers a fuller appreciation of the parks' environmental and social impacts. Texas state parks have evolved to meet the needs of a rapidly growing population and changing environment, from preserving historic and cultural sites to embracing recreational needs to prioritizing environmental stewardship. Over the last 100 years, the parks have expanded throughout the state, increased in size, and connected a broader society to nature's benefits. Generously illustrated, Stepping Outside provides a deeper understanding of Texas's natural heritage and offers insight on the many ways state parks add to the quality of life. Environmentalists, geographers, natural resource managers, and anyone wishing to visit a Texas state park will find a wealth of knowledge on conservation, history, and the success story of state parks.