Blog / Around Town

5 Best Outdoor Activities in and Around Big Lake, TX

5 Best Outdoor Activities in and Around Big Lake, TX
If you're looking for an authentic West Texas town, Big Lake, TX  is the perfect place. Founded in 1911 with the arrival of the railroad, Big Lake catapulted to fame in 1923 when the Santa Rita #1 struck oil, triggering the West Texas “Black Gold” Rush. Though that original well stopped producing oil long ago, you'll still find pumpjacks dotting the horizon, working day and night to pump “Texas Tea.”

Explore the Ruins

About 18 miles north of Big Lake, you'll discover the former town of Stiles. Most of the buildings are long gone, but ruins of the 1911 courthouse and 1903 cemetery remain in this lonely ghost town.Go 10 miles to the west of Big Lake, and you'll find another abandoned town. The oil town of Texon sprung up around the Santa Rita #1 gusher in 1923. At the height of the oil boom, it had a population of more than 1,000. Now deer, jackrabbits, and roadrunners graze the empty streets.About 60 miles south of Big Lake near the town of Sheffield, the 19th-century Fort Lancaster lies in ruin. Most of the wooden structures were dismantled long ago and used for building materials in the local town. Others were destroyed by fire. Little remains of the 30 original buildings except for a few stone and adobe walls.

Journey Deep Underground

The Caverns of Sonora are about 75 miles from Big Lake near the town of Sonora. This world-class cave system is a designated Natural Landmark. Seven miles have been mapped of these stunning caverns, formed more than a million years ago. Explore the awe-inspiring Crystal Place at 155 feet below the surface in the walking tour. If you're feeling adventurous, sign up for the more-challenging 4-hour caver tour, where you rappel 50 feet into the Devil's Pit.

Experience a Real Ranch

The X Bar Ranch Nature Retreat is a working Texas ranch located 70 miles southeast of Big Lake in Eldorado. The same family has owned the ranch since its beginning in 1915. Accommodations include a luxurious home, private cabin, and RV and tent camping. While there, swim in the pool, gaze at the stars, hike the three miles of trails, and enjoy the livestock, birds, and other wildlife in this beautiful and serene 5,400-acre retreat.

Make a Big Splash

With a name like “Big Lake,” you might expect a big lake to be nearby. Unfortunately, the lake is now dry, but there's still plenty of water to be found in this desert country. When you're ready to cool off, go for a swim in the pool at Reagan County Park. While you're there, check out the original Stiles jailhouse, original Santa Fe Depot, and a replica of the Santa Rita #1 oil derrick.If you prefer a natural swimming hole, you can head 70 miles east to San Angelo State Park, Lake Nasworth, or Twin Buttes Reservoir. In addition to swimming, all three lakes offer boating and fishing. The State Park staff will even loan you fishing gear.

Take a Hike

San Angelo State Park also boasts 50 miles of multiuse trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Lodging options include rustic cabins, a bunkhouse, and RV, primitive tent, and equestrian camping.The 37-acre Eaton Hill Nature Center and Preserve in Sonora offers more than two miles of hiking trails, featuring wildlife, a recreation of a Native American campsite, and several water features.Before you leave Big Lake, be sure to stop by and visit us at Glassock Chevrolet. Whether you're in the market for a new or used vehicle or have a service need on your existing vehicle, we can take care of it! Image courtesy of pexels.com
Posted in:

Related Posts

3 Favorite Wedding Locations in and Around Big Lake, TX

3 Favorite Wedding Locations in and Around Big Lake, TX

Big Lake, TX, located in the heart of Reagan County, has beautiful landscapes and breathtaking vistas suitable for a wedding event. The wedding locations in and around Big Lake will make your day special, whether you choose to exchange vows in a lovely farm ranch, an elegant hotel, or a vineyard. more Cactus Hotel Cactus Hotel is a beautiful wedding venue located a few miles from Big Lake. The Cactus Hotel is a stunning tower with elegant spaces perfect for a romantic vow exchange and wedding celebration. For instance, you can exchange vows in the lobby, which can accommodate over 200 people and features a magnificent staircase down which you can elegantly stroll and get married at the bottom step. The towering ceilings, as well as the lovely and elegant chandeliers, create the ideal setting for a romantic affair. You can also have your reception at the top of the Cactus, an excellent area with stunning city views and seating for up to 150 guests. The staff is welcoming, attentive, and eager to assist you in planning your dream wedding. They also provide outstanding catering services. Christoval Vineyard/ Chapel in the Vineyard Chapel in the Vineyard is the place to go if you want a gorgeous outdoor wedding setting. For your special day, Christoval Vineyards creates a unique and beautiful atmosphere. Imagine exchanging vows in a shady, open-air setting among towering majestic soaring trees or within a European-style stone chateau with carriage doors leading to a flower-lined courtyard. Christoval Vineyard is a 25-acre estate located beside the Concho River's spring-fed banks. The space is perfect for a small or large event. Chapel in the Vineyard does not provide culinary services, but they can connect you with the top wedding vendors in the area to help you plan your dream wedding. They've collaborated with several providers who offer top-notch cuisine, wedding rentals, videographers, and wedding planners. Stars on the Concho Star Ranch is a rustic wedding venue outside Big Lake, Texas. On the banks of the Concho River, it is a modern conversion of a horse ranch into a spectacular events venue. You can have your wedding on the riverfront and the reception at the rustic barn. You can also enjoy your first dance in the designated huge concrete dancing area, which is likewise outfitted with appropriate lighting for a first dance. The scenery and locations of Stars Ranch are ideal for capturing memorable wedding shots. A separate bride and groom suite with private bathrooms and showers is available at the location. Three folding arbors may be placed anywhere on the property. The property is wheelchair accessible and allows outside catering. During the reception, the venue also provides a mobile bar where you may enjoy a range of drinks and cocktails. Please drink in moderation and responsibly. Big Lake is a beautiful destination for a wedding, whether you choose an indoor or outdoor event. As you look for the ideal wedding venue, be sure you have proper transportation. To rent a new or pre-owned vehicle, contact Glasscock Chevrolet today.

5 of the Best Coffee Shops Near Big Lake, TX

5 of the Best Coffee Shops Near Big Lake, TX

Richly rooted in the farming, ranching, and oil and gas industries, the city of Big Lake, TX has some wonderful family-owned eateries and cafes. Here are five of our favorite Big Lake area coffee shops. 1. Grandma's Kitchen When you're after hearty home cooking with a classic cup of coffee, Grandma's on East 2nd Street in Big Lake is a great choice. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Grandma's offers dine-in or drive-through service, plus some delivery. Known for yummy burgers and satisfying meals like the hot meatloaf sandwich with gravy, this casual eatery is a popular mainstay. With some of the breakfast selections such as pancake, omelet, or egg and meat meals, Grandma's is known for including free coffee for diners age 62 and older. 2. Longhorn Coffee Company If you're in San Angelo, the Longhorn Coffee Company on South Oakes Street can be a fun place to stop not only for a cup to stay or go, but also to purchase beans to take home. Two popular Longhorn whole coffee beans to try are the light roast Snakebite Blend and the medium roast Concho. The ambiance of the shop has a stylishly old-fashioned feel to it and the cement patio garden area out back with umbrella tables is a nice place to enjoy coffee. 3. Sweet Life Bakery & Custom Creations For a convenient spot in Big Lake to enjoy some delicious baked goods with your coffee, the Sweet Life on North Main Avenue can be a good pick. In addition to custom cakes, they have a wide variety of baked sweets including many with a Mexican flair such as empanada, caramel chocolate flan, and arroz con leche (rice pudding). Some of their signature vanilla-iced lemon bread would be the perfect accompaniment to a fresh cup of coffee! 4. Black Lotus Coffee House Located on South Burleson in McCamey, the Black Lotus is a casual, family-owned coffee hangout that also offers tea. Coffees are available in small, medium, and large sizes and in classics like Americano, cappuccino, and espresso as well as blended drinks like cafe mocha that features premium chocolate syrup. If tea is more your style, you'll find some intriguing loose-leaf organic versions here that may include Habanero Green Tea, Blue Mango, and Blueberry Pancakes. For boosting your body's engine, there's even the Jump Start which is a high-caffeine tea. 5. R & S Victoria Donuts An excellent place for early morning takeout coffee or cappuccino along with a pastry, donut, or breakfast sandwich, R&S is a small, homey shop on East 2nd Street in Big Lake. You can buy bread rolls here to take home as well as many different types of pastries. Kolache, the filled-pastry Texas treat of Czech heritage, is a specialty here. After you've sampled some of the best coffee places in the Big Lake region, stop by Glasscock Chevrolet. We're a trusted, family-owned dealership with over 80 years of understanding and serving the needs of the drivers in Big Lake and surrounding areas. We work with all budgets and provide top-notch customer service to help you find the perfect new or used quality vehicle for your needs whether that's a truck, SUV, or car. Image courtesy of pixabay.com

5 Best Spots for Picnics in and Around Big Lake, TX

5 Best Spots for Picnics in and Around Big Lake, TX

There are plenty of incredible picnic spots to explore in the heart of Reagan County, ranging from botanical gardens with breathtaking views to city parks with perfectly manicured landscapes. So, pack a picnic basket with your favorite snacks and head out for a relaxing day in the sun with some good company. Here are some of the best spots for picnics in and around Big Lake, TX. 1. Reagan County Park Reagan County Park is a beautiful park that sits right at the edge of town. You can enjoy a nice afternoon stroll or spread out a picnic blanket in the green spaces. The Park also has plenty of open space to jog around or take your dog for a walk. Kids can burn off some energy at the playground or enjoy some ball games. If you are lucky, you will be able to spot some deer as you snack away. 2. Big Spring State Park Take in the breathtaking views of Texas from the top of the high bluff at Big Spring State Park. There are plenty of activities to keep the entire family entertained, ranging from hiking and biking to scenic drives around the 300-acre park, which derives its name from Big Spring. Empty the contents of your picnic basket at the picnic tables located on top of the scenic mountain where the kids can also burn off some energy at the playground. 3. McCamey Park If taking a dip in the pool before enjoying a nice picnic sounds like the perfect way to spend your day, then McCamey Park is the place to be. With a well-equipped playground and a basketball court, the kids will be kept entertained for hours. The Park also has plenty of great green spots where you can spread out a picnic blanket. Alternatively, you can carry some barbeque equipment and enjoy a cookout. 4. Comanche Trail Park Covering an impressive 400 acres of open space, Comanche Trail Park is a popular picnic destination. Lay down a picnic blanket in the green area overlooking the Comanche Trail Lake and enjoy the picturesque views. After taking a sumptuous meal, head over to the golf course and enjoy a golf game. The Park also features basketball fields, an amphitheater, playgrounds, and pavilions. Fishing, hiking, and biking are among the activities one can engage in while at the park. 5. Josh Mitchell Park Built in honor of a Reagan County deputy who was killed in the line of duty, Josh Mitchell Park sits right in the heart of town. The peaceful park boasts plenty of well-manicured lawns to spread out a picnic blanket, making it the perfect place to spend a fun day in the sun. So park up some yummy bites, sit back, relax and watch the kids enjoy playing various games at the playground. Enjoy some much-needed quality time with family or friends at any of these popular picnic destinations anytime you visit this peaceful rural town. Be sure to visit Glasscock Chevrolet, and we will help you acquire an outstanding vehicle that will get you there safe. Image courtesy of pexels.com