#4

Garner State Park

Distance from Dallas: 364 miles; 5.75 hoursLocated along the Frio River, Garner State Park is another prime spot to find a reprieve from the heat. You can swim in the river, or grab an inner tube, canoe, or paddleboat and enjoy the water that way. There are 11 miles of scenic hike-able trails to enjoy as well, and campgrounds so you can do it all over again the next day.

#3

Palo Duro Canyon

Distance from Dallas: 377 miles; 6 hours

Out in dusty West Texas near George Strait’s favorite town, Amarillo, you'll find the second largest canyon in the country. Since the other one is the Grand Canyon, second's not so bad. At Palo Duro you can hike, bike, drive, and even travel by horseback to explore the canyons. There are over 30mi of trails to keep you occupied. Once you are fully famished from hiking, you can drive up to Amarillo to the Big Texan Steak Ranch and compete in the 72oz steak challenge to replenish those precious calories you burned.

#2

Enchanted Rock

Distance from Dallas: 247 miles; 4 hours

Enchanted Rock has attracted hikers, campers, rock climbers, bird watchers, stargazers, and stoners for many years. Located near Fredericksburg, it's technically a giant pink granite dome that was believed to have a spell cast on it by a Spanish conquistador. Fredericksburg, while not a SUPER happening town, is not without its charms. So, if you need a little R&R for a couple days, you can find some peace and quiet in the slow-moving town, which has some antique shops, B&Bs, and the like -- if you are looking to score some points with the lady. Redeem said points at Cooper's BBQ while you're down that way.

#1

Hamilton Pool

Distance from Dallas: 219 miles; 3.5 hours

If you want to stay in Texas and have it SEEM like you’re not in Texas, then Hamilton Pool is one of your best bets. This grotto that has a 45ft waterfall pouring into a perfect swimming hole for those criminally hot days. There is only enough space for 75 cars, though, and once the lot is full it becomes one-in-and-one-out, so make sure you get there early or be prepared to wait for a bit. Also, there are no concessions, so make sure to pack a cooler.

Here I present you guys with a list of must-visit destinations near Dallas. A perfect list of places to go to with your buddies on a road trip and make memories that last a lifetime. So, get out of your cozy comforters this weekend, head to one of these car-accessible spots and get away from the internship stress and full-time worries! :)