Fort Griffin State Historic Site
Texas Historic Site

Fort Griffin State Historic Site

Fort Griffin, Texas
Available Activities
  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Rock Climbing
  • Mountain Biking
  • Bird Watching
  • Stargazing
  • Kayaking
  • Biking

🌤 Weather at Fort Griffin State Historic Site by season

SpringSummerFallWinter
39–85 °F67–96 °F38–88 °F27–61 °F

Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Fort Griffin, 1 mi away, elevation 1,275 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.

Verified by America’s State Parks Editorial Team – Updated March 2026

Fort Griffin State Historic Site is a public state park in Texas near Fort Griffin in Shackelford County County. Established in 1867, the park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.

Quick Facts

StateTexas
Nearest CityFort Griffin
CountyShackelford County
Established1867

Location & Getting There

Fort Griffin State Historic Site is located near Fort Griffin, Texas. The park’s coordinates are 32.9220939, -99.2248401.

Things to Do

Texas state parks encompass an extraordinary range — from Big Bend’s Chihuahuan Desert canyons and Hill Country swimming holes to East Texas piney woods, Gulf Coast barrier islands, and Panhandle canyon country. Activities include hiking through dramatic canyon landscapes, swimming in spring-fed Hill Country rivers, kayaking coastal bays and inland waterways, fishing for bass, catfish, and redfish, camping under vast starry skies (Texas has multiple International Dark Sky parks), mountain biking rugged desert trails, rock climbing at Hueco Tanks, birding along the Gulf Coast flyway, and tubing crystal-clear rivers like the Frio, Guadalupe, and San Marcos.

Best Time to Visit

Texas parks vary hugely by region. Hill Country and desert parks are best October through April — summer brings punishing heat exceeding 100°F. Gulf Coast parks are pleasant November through April, with warm water for fishing year-round. East Texas piney woods are enjoyable spring and fall. The Big Bend region is a winter destination — spring break and Thanksgiving are peak times. Fall foliage is limited in most of Texas, but Lost Maples State Natural Area in the Hill Country delivers spectacular bigtooth maple color in late October through November. Day-use reservations are mandatory at high-demand parks (Enchanted Rock, Garner, Pedernales Falls) — check the TPWD website before visiting.

Visitor Tips

Texas state parks charge per-person daily entrance fees ($1–$7, children 12 and under free). The Texas State Parks Pass ($70/year) covers unlimited free entry for the passholder and all passengers in their vehicle — one of the best deals in the state park world. Camping reservations through the TPWD reservation system open 30 days in advance. Popular Hill Country parks frequently reach capacity and close to new entries on weekends. Cell service is nonexistent in remote West Texas and Big Bend parks. Carry at least 1 gallon of water per person per day when hiking in desert parks.

Explore More Texas State Parks

Fort Griffin State Historic Site is one of many outstanding state parks in Texas. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Texas guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.

More parks nearby: Possum Kingdom State Park is within about an hour’s drive, while Palo Pinto Mountains State Park lies elsewhere in the state.

America's State Parks is an independent online guide to the state parks of the United States. Our editorial team compiles and reviews each park profile from official state park agency sources and other primary references, and follows a published editorial and review methodology (see /editorial-review-methodology/). We update profiles and correct errors on an ongoing basis.

🐾 Dogs & Pets at Fort Griffin State Historic Site

Pets allowed? statewide rule
Pets are welcome at almost all Texas State Parks on trails and in campgrounds, but must be on leash, in a car, or in a crate at all times and may not be left unattended.
Leash rule statewide rule
6 ft maximum leash required at all times
Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
Pets are not allowed in the water or on land around designated swim areas
Cabins & lodging statewide rule
Pets are not permitted in any state park buildings, including motels, cabins, screened shelters and group facilities
Statewide exceptions statewide rule
Several parks restrict dogs in specific areas (Big Bend Ranch, Enchanted Rock, Government Canyon, Hueco Tanks); proof of current rabies vaccination required

Are dogs allowed at Fort Griffin State Historic Site?
Pets are welcome at almost all Texas State Parks on trails and in campgrounds, but must be on leash, in a car, or in a crate at all times and may not be left unattended. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.

Rules verified July 2026 via tpwd.texas.gov. More: Texas state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared

Last updated: March 6, 2026

Park Location

Fort Griffin, Texas

Plan your gear for Fort Griffin State Historic Site

From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities: