My family is a camping family. We also are a family that loves to book our weekends full of things to do, whether that's taking advantage of activities around Houston or traveling elsewhere. Camping started as something fun and cheap (emphasis on the cheap) to do in college with my then-boyfriend and current husband, and it slowly morphed into our preferred way to get out of town and see various parts of the city as the years passed. As our family has grown, we've gone from tent camping to trailer camping and tried out everything else possible in between.

With Halloween right around the corner and fall finally in the air, it's time to gather up the kids and head out to do some pumpkin picking. We've rounded up several different locations throughout the city hosting pumpkin patches and fall festivals throughout the month of October, so no matter where you are in Houston, you're sure to find a pumpkin patch nearby. 

Nestled into the side of a slow, winding road in the small town of Tomball northwest of Houston, you'll find Spring Creek Park, an expansive park that is bursting with things to do. It's also home to some of my fondest memories growing up, as I used to frequent it often with my family, and being able to bring my kids to this park is like stepping back in time. This isn't just any park, though; it's a place that begs for adventures, appeals to kids of all ages, and could just be your next camping trip - all without having to very far from the city. 

The sprawling 114-acre facility is home to a plethora of activities set amongst the trees (which is why it's already claimed a spot on our list of parks with LOTS of shade - a must for any Houston park in the summer!) making it the perfect spot to settle in for the day; just pack a picnic and get ready to explore!