Are you itching to get out of the city and explore the great outdoors? Look no further than The Woodlands, Texas! This hidden gem is surrounded by lush forests and stunning lakes, making it the perfect destination for outdoor adventurers. With activities ranging from hiking and biking to fishing and kayaking, there’s something for everyone in The Woodlands.
But what is an adventure without a book? Luckily, I’ve got you covered with some awesome book recommendations to help you get the most out of your trip. I love making learning a part of life & books are a great way to do that. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie to the outdoors, these books will help you make the most of what The Woodlands has to offer. As always, parents, use your discretion when choosing whether a book is a good fit for your child. I do my best to ensure that each book is appropriate for families but I am not able to read all the books I include.
George Mitchell Nature Preserve: The George Mitchell Nature Preserve is a 1,700-acre nature preserve that offers hiking trails, birdwatching, and wildlife observation, as well as educational programs and events.
Books:
- A Walk in the Woods Dover Coloring Book – This coloring book is a perfect addition to a trip to the nature preserve. It is intricate enough for almost any age to enjoy.
- Backpack Explorer On the Nature Trail by Storey Publishing – A take-along field guide for ages 4-8. From worms, birds, and spiders to trees, flowers, and clouds, young explorers learn what to look and listen for wherever they are — whether in a nature preserve, an urban park, or a suburban backyard.
- The Woodlands: The Inside Story of Creating a Better Hometown by Galatas – This is the story of the people who were instrumental in developing it and the experiences and challenges they had in creating a better, “new” hometown called The Woodlands, TX
Texas TreeVentures: an outdoor aerial adventure course that will have you climbing to new heights! Set amongst the trees, this unique course is both mentally and physically challenging, offering a great activity for families, friends, and groups to enjoy as they attempt to traverse a series of poles, cables, and other elements for three hours.
Books:
- Strange Trees: And the Stories Behind Them by Pourquie – Learn all about the world’s most amazing trees! With colorful and wacky illustrations this is a collection of some of the strangest trees from around the world, all completely real -as bizarre as they may seem!
- Trees & Shrubs by Buckley – This book is part of a classic nature series. Great for ages 8 and up.
Lake Paloma: A little oasis right in the city, Lake Paloma offers self serve kayak rentals. If you don’t have a lot of time or just want a little adventure this could be a great option. Located near TreeVentures & George Mitchell Nature Preserve.
Books:
- Can You Canoe? And Other Adventure Songs by The Okee Dokee Brothers – Silly and fun, this book includes folk-style songs celebrating the joys of nature.
- Canoe Days by Paulsen – A simple poetic book that makes you feel like you are enjoying a lazy day on the water.
Riva Row Boat House: The Riva Row Boat House offers kayak and paddleboard rentals for exploring Lake Woodlands, as well as a floating dock and picnic areas.
Books:
- The Girl Who Rowed the Ocean by Humphries – The story of Lucy, an adventurous girl who hatches a plan to sale across the Atlantic. Filled with educational information about sea life as well as heartwarming lessons, this is a fun story for anyone who likes an adventure.
- Boat Book by Gail Gibbons – All about boats for little ones. Gail Gibbons has a wonderful gift for clear explanations & fun illustrations.
The Woodlands Waterway: The Woodlands Waterway is a scenic waterway that offers walking and biking paths, as well as paddleboat rentals and gondola rides.
Books:
- Only in Texas: Weird & Wonderful Facts About the Lone Star State by Alexander – Beautiful landscape illustrations capture the vast natural riches of the Lone Star State, including Big Bend National Park, Rio Grande and South Padre Island, while fact boxes and pull-out spot artworks cover fun Texas facts.
- Canoeing & Kayaking Houston Waterways by Wiest – This book by longtime paddler Natalie Wiest, is the perfect companion for anyone who wants to experience Houston’s well-watered landscape from the seat of a kayak or canoe.
Wunderlich Farms: Located just 22 minutes from The Woodlands in Klein, TX. Wunderlich Farms is a living history farm where you can experience what life could have been like for Texans in the 1800’s. There is a farmers market, animals, and several homesteads with unique but intertwining history. You might even get a chance to help in the garden or do some laundry the old fashioned way.
Books:
- A Paradise Called Texas by Shefelman – Follow the story of a young German boy who immigrates to Texas with his family.
- A Pioneer Sampler: The Daily Life of a Pioneer Family in 1840 by Greenwood – A blend of both fiction & non-fiction, this book invites readers to step back in time to the 1800’s. While not specifically about Texas, this book is an excellent resource for learning about pioneer farm life in the USA.
Spring Creek Nature Trail: The Spring Creek Nature Trail is a 14-mile, natural-surface path that follows Spring Creek and was built largely by volunteers. It is open to hikers, bikers, birders, and other nature lovers. Experience the gentle meanders, wetland ponds, and abundant wildlife that Spring Creek has to offer
Books:
- A Walk Through the Woods by Greig – A beautiful book about the beauty in nature.
- The Keeper of the Wild Words by Smith – Some words aren’t common anymore, nature words. This book is about saving those words by spending time in the outdoors.
- About Habitats: Wetlands by Sill – A beginners guide to wetlands & their value in the natural landscape.
