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    Challenger 7 Memorial Park

    4.2 (33 reviews)
    Open 7:00 am - 9:00 pm

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    Stuart L.

    I enjoy coming to this park for some peace and quiet and jogging on the trails here during the week or early in the morning on weekends. I also have ridden my mountain bike on these trails but they are not very long so this usually at the end of a longer ride along roads and trails at other parks in the area. It's not a bad place to get in a short run but you have to string some different paths together. Two things to be aware of. First this a coastal plain near Clear Creek, with some low lying areas that don't always drain well. For several days after a rain, the trails can be muddy and you end up with a pound or two of extra soil stuck to your shoes. Guess it's good to increase the intensity of your work out but hard to clean off. Second, this place can be very popular on weekends, particularly with the different picnic pavilions that are available. If you are looking for some time away from people, it can be hard to achieve during these times. This weekend I almost inadvertently photo bombed a couple of different family reunions. Great little park in the Clear Lake area but when you want to hang out there will depend upon how many other people you want to see

    Park photoshoot
    Jillian G.

    Picked this spot for a Mother's Day Photoshoot! There were so many deer, it was a quiet relaxing park.

    Maria W.

    This park is my dream come true--It has everything that I've been dreaming for. I tell you what..since I moved from the country regions like in Manvel, TX or in Terry, MS I've longed for a place I can go and feel free as if I am in the wilderness. Here is a park that has it all: trails that venture off the path and into the woods, near the water, trails you can practically get lost in and paths that aren't paved. If you need to clear your mind of life's issues and want to feel at peace with yourself don't hesitate to come here. Also, my dog, Pocky was born in the forest (that's where his mum birth him and his 3 siblings) he loves this park. My sister and I let him walk free once, so he can adventure off and he didn't go far..he stayed with us. He loves to sniff the ground as he is a terrier. He always whines when we are in the parking lot--he just can't wait to get out of the car. If Pocky could talk, he would probably say this park is way better than the genetic dog parks.This would be a good park for hound dogs--it lets them explore and smell for small creatures like rabbits, squirrels, and etc. The boardwalk is all cool fun and games, but if you want a real adventure to challenge yourself. I suggest that you don't follow the guided paths or go walking up on the boardwalk, instead walk below the boardwalk and you will be amazed to find nature at this peak. Sometimes I do forget that I am in the city still because my mind isn't racing, my body is calm, and observing the delicate atmosphere around me. Now, I do still hear the noises from 45 Freeway, but I like to blend those sounds in with the birds singing, insects playing, and the frogs burping. You would think you aren't in the noisy city anymore, but that you are living in Texas Hill country. I always come to this park now--I don't bother going to any other park that claim they have trails. This is a nice way to spend your Sunday evenings, Saturday mornings, or any ole' day really. Excellent for hiking, biking, and fishing.. The parking lot is massive too. I can't count the amount of slots there is for your vehicles--I just know there is quite a bit. I could go on and on about what I love about this amazing park, but I wouldn't wanna spoil your visit. Come on out to this park and you will not be disappointed, instead you will fall in love with this park and won't stop coming!

    Walking out over the wetlands to see wildlife at Challenger Park.
    Felicia P.

    This park itself is awesome. You could spend the entire day here and not get bored. Walking trails through the woods, see all different kinds of animals, in the wetlands too. Lots of playground areas (if you're into that social distancing thing). Really nice covered barbecue areas that are covered, have the grill and water, plenty of tables, you just have to call and reserve them. There are scattered public barbecue areas too. However...the lawnmower police are ridiculous. My last encounter was the most annoying. We were flying our drones up and down and in circles to give my kids some experience. Lawnmower police sat there watching us for a long time. Then he comes over and says we can't do that there. Pointed out there are multiple drone videos of the park on YouTube and we interact with people flying drones all the time there. Lawnmower police says he's sorry but it's in the rule book. My husband asked if there was really a rule book. Lawnmower police said "of course & it's in the office". We put the drones away and asked to see the rule book & told him no rush we'll wait. He says no problem, he'll go to the office and get it. Cool. We wait for the magical rule book that acts as the public park's bible. I'm assuming all parks must have one. We wait. And wWait some more. Nothing. I told my husband to send up a drone and that'll get him back over here. Sure enough he pulls up on his trusty steed and tells us there is no rule book but that's the rule. I said I wasn't questioning him, just the rules restricting drones in the park. I wanted to know why you can't at this particular park when it's fine in many other parks. He can't answer that obviously. Asked him if he's hiding bodies or drugs out there. Bodies could easily be buried deeply and covered effectively so I figured it was weed plants or opium plant...possibly coca plants? Maybe all 3! Told him he can calm down, we have no intention on alerting the Plant Police to investigate the Lawnmower Police. Making plants illegal is as ridiculous as banning recreation at a public park. Ooooh, do you yal have a whole cartel thing going with those guys? This is exciting stuff! But he wasn't giving up any information. We just left and went to another park where nobody harasses you when you aren't bothering anyone & flew drones again. When we got home we made phone calls to many people in the Parks & Recreation Rolodex & explained our question about drones in public parks and Challenger Park specifically. Of course we got zero call backs about our question. I'm not disrespecting the Lawnmower Police with this questioning. I simply want to know which public parks you're allowed to fly drones in and which you aren't. You can't google this info. Why you can't see all the rules of the parks unless there is a sign up and why there are zero "drones prohibited" signs" if its such a cardinal sin. I think as a citizen in this county who uses the public parks payed for by tax dollars all of the rules should be accessible to me, especially when Lawnmower Police are telling me I have to do something that is in a secret rule books. ANYWAY...sigh...apologies for such a long review but this was not the first time we got questioned/ordered by Lawnmower Police who have no proof of authority or any proof what they are saying is even true. All I need is the secret rule book and I will abide by whatever is included, however, the public should be able to check the rules of any public park they helped pay for. And pointing to your polo park uniform and saying, "see, I work here" doesn't cut it for me, Raul! Show me the money! Or at least the rules. Enjoy the park, but if you see lawnmower cops heading you, just know they're about to act like they were badges and guns to protect "their park" (our park).

    Veronica B.

    Visiting from Fort Worth and was looking for trails and stumbled upon this beautiful place! There is plenty of shade due to all the trees which helps in this heat. The bridge is also very cool to run/walk as each end over looks the surrounding water. Most definitely a must go to. Also believe it is pet friendly since I saw a couple of pups out there!

    The entrance to the park.
    Kimberly L.

    Love this park! I heard that it had some nice running trails and a hill or two and wanted to check them out as I would like to incorporate trail running and hills into my runs. I was very impressed! The last time we were here, it was August, it was Africa hot and the spiders were yellow and huge. Plus I was about 70 lbs heavier so walking along the boardwalk and trails was not fun. Today, it was a beautiful, sunny 60° day; no spiders in sight and a beautiful breeze to keep me comfortable. We walked along the boardwalk and it was nice; we saw a few different birds, the only one I recognized was a woodpecker. I'm sure it's really pretty in spring when everything is greener, but it was still nice. Then we decided to walk along the trails, so I could judge how difficult (or not) they would be if I decided to run them. And I definitely think they will be great for me! They're not real difficult, but as I'm not a trail runner I really can't judge. Maybe they would be different when I'm running, not walking. There are a couple decent hills (again, from the eyes of a beginner hill/trail runner who has only ever run on the street) that I can't wait to train on. Plus, there are tons of benches, and swings and trash cans; clean porta potties and bathrooms. There are a couple of covered pavilions for parties and a few playground areas. Note: there aren't too many water fountains (just by the bathrooms I think), so bring a water bottle if you're going to walk/run or if it's really warm. The memorial to the Challenger space shuttle is small, but very nice and serene. It's well kept and definitely a nice memorial to the brave explorers that lost their lives in 1986. This is a beautiful little gem that's hidden in the back yard of NASA. I'm kinda wishing I hadn't reviewed it, as I don't want it to full up when people realize how amazing it is!

    Boardwalk
    Jaimee M.

    My family enjoyed visiting this park. We came for the trails & boardwalk, but ended up spending the majority of the time on just the boardwalk. The trails, while clearly visible as breaks in the brush, were not marked in any way and did not indicate length or have a clear map at trailhead. As it was extremely muddy, we decided to stay on the boardwalk, which was actually quite peaceful and relaxing. The wood was sturdy & foliage provided shade but was not impeding. One lookout was closed for an unknown reason, but the other two were accessible. There's not much to see other than marsh, but it was still very tranquil & we enjoyed the quiet for quite a while. Everyone we came across was friendly, and there seemed to be several different groups of people there solely for photography sessions. The whole park seems well maintained, but we did not visit the restrooms, playgrounds or picnic areas, so I cannot review those. We definitely will be back though for the boardwalk & hopefully a drier trail walk.

    Gail W.

    If you are looking for an adventurous day outside come here. Here at Challenger park it has a wide range of land I mean an acre or two.. land that goes as far as eyes can see. Me, I'm an outdoor goer and bit of a risk taker. I don't usually like to abide by some rules-- meaning staying on the trails. I like going off trails to explore and adventure out. Good ole' mother nature (southern accent). Moss, trees, moss trees, mud, water, muddy water, flies, spiders, webs, in yo face! Is all the you experience off trailing. On trailing is a bit boring and ordinary. Not enough excitement. What about the snakes.. what about them? Off trailing with some rubber boots and a big large stick may not help you. But what the heck.. it's exciting. Out on the dock look-out there are some sweet spots to take a boat or kayak and ride the lake on down or use it cross to the other side. Fishing is permitted here, just need a rod and reel. Fishing license, just to be on the safe side and your all good to go. Usually on the weekends the lake is packed with fishers. Once after it rains it's really great, because the ground is freshly drenched making it extra muddy. Towards the back of the park is a playground, pavilion for events, restrooms, and a boat ramp. The front only has porti-potties. This park is worth the trip.

    Pavilions
    Anabella C.

    I went here today. The place is nice to go walking but it doesn't really have a running/jogging trail. You can jog in concrete if you use the road but no trails. There are a few dirt/muddy trails to walk through if you are brave enough, I did walk them all but I would had been bitten by snake or something, I would had died there. There is no security at all. It has 3 nice play areas for children and pavilions with nice bathrooms and nice tables, chairs and awesome grills. I hope it helps you.

    Relax on the bench while family fish
    Doris H.

    Very nice park a forest preserve and a place for a picnics, boats play ground all in one place also good fishing I can't say anything bad about this park except you have to come enjoy your own experience

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    2 years ago

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    2 years ago

    One of our favorite spots to go to. Multiple covered play areas. With pretty cool hiking trails.

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    3 years ago

    Cool place to hike and explore. Looks like fishing is allowed. Made for large events.

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    11 years ago

    This is a nice little park! I love coming here for a picnic on a nice sunny day. It's always peaceful here.

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    Ask the Community - Challenger 7 Memorial Park

    Review Highlights - Challenger 7 Memorial Park

    The boardwalk is all cool fun and games, but if you want a real adventure to challenge yourself.

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    Walnut Park

    Walnut Park

    4.4
    (10 reviews)
    1.9 mi

    Tucked away little park with a simple nice walking trail. Great for walking, jogging and working…read moreout. Only con is limited parking.

    Hmmm, I seem to be a fan of the parks lately. Which isn't a bad thing! Webster has some really nice…read moreparks; I wish I had realized that sooner, but now that I am running more, and looking for different places to run during my longer runs, I have stumbled across this little hidden gem. I always knew it was here, and we actually stopped by here one year around Christmas time as they decorate the little gazebo with white lights. It's very pretty, and very romantic, but after that time I sorta forgot it was here. Yesterday though I was on a long run and decided to see if this park has a running trail. And it does! It's only 1/4 of a mile but a lot of it is shady (nice!) and I love the surface! It's not gravel like Texas Avenue and it's softer than asphalt. It feels like the surface that's on an actual track. And bonus, there's NOBODY here. If you want a quiet, solitary run, come here! There was one lady and her young child at the playground area and as I was leaving another runner came along. That's it. Maybe it gets busier later, or at different time, I don't know. Now granted, this is a small park. No bathrooms, no water fountains, and just a couple little playground areas. But lots of picnic tables and benches and the nice gazebo, and of course the little track. But for a nice little quiet run in a nice little quiet neighborhood, this is the place to be! I know I will be back!

    Photos
    Outside
    Outside
    Park
    Park
    Slide

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    Slide
    Exploration Green

    Exploration Green

    4.1
    (7 reviews)
    3.5 mi

    Only been to phase 5 and hopefully soon will cover the other phases…read more I love that it is near my house! The parking lot is small and right off bay area near space center Blvd. So far when I have gone it hasn't been packed so can't say there is any parking issues at the moment. I have only gone in the late morning and early afternoon. They have and still are planting trees along the path. Once they have grown tall enough it will definitely provide some great shade. Right now there is no shade so straight sun and heat along the path. If you plan it right like when we get fallish weather or a cloudy day then it isn't bad for a loop. It is a paved path so if you bring your kiddo In a stroller or a jogging stroller then you won't have any issues. Plenty of room for a stroller and a runner to go by. It does connect to phase 4 so if you are looking for a longer path then continue on. According to my Garmin watch the phase 5 loop is 1.27 miles.

    I just moved to the area and discovered this park. Yesterday after gym, I set on a mission to walk…read more30 minutes on the trail. Gosh-lee I didn't realize that the trails were deep and winding. They are well paved and they don't go into any wooded parts. The trails wrap around the giant lake, near the body of water are marshes with native plants and a few trees. There are trash and doggie poop bags scattered throughout the park (so there's no excuse why you couldn't pick up your dogs poo). I spotted several ducks sitting by the water. If you come in the morning, you can see all the birds preparing for flight. It's so beautiful. On the outskirts of the park is all residential with houses and townhomes/condos. This particular location on Diana Lane, you have the option to park on the street across from some old apartments or in the designated parking lot. There's an ample amount of parking in the lot. Exploration Green is an expansive park and as many parts to it including one off of El Dorado Blvd (small parking lot on the right side) and Bay Area Blvd. The parkgoers are pretty nice and greet you in passing. I'm adding this park to my favorites. I can't wait to walk it every morning!

    Photos
    Wildflower
    Wildflower
    Wildlife
    Wildlife
    Bluebonnets

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    Bluebonnets
    Dixie Farm Road Park

    Dixie Farm Road Park

    4.3
    (6 reviews)
    5.5 mi

    Great walking trail park in the area--it connects to the Scarsdale Park. I love how this park has a…read morelot of natural feels of it--back wood walking trails, trails made right in the middle of the wilderness. I've seen rabbits, deers, birds and other small creatures on this trail as I've walked it. I'm still trying to figure out what is the earliest time this park opens--I've got here at 5 am and people are already walking on the park. I guess I need to get here at 4:30 am just to walk. It great to bike ride, walk, power walk, jogging, or running trails. Dogs love it--and I'm not sure if cat lovers walk their cats...that just seems pretty strange. There's nothing like a morning walk that doesn't get you ready for your day ahead!

    I love coming here! There are always a lot of people here but most people have in head phones so it…read moreis quiet. It is rather peaceful here. Taking in nature as you walk is a really beautiful thing. It makes me feel pretty zen. Yeah!! I don't know how many miles the entire walk is but I think it's six. People bike here and there is also two playgrounds for the kiddos. Or if you want to have a picnic there are covered tables. They also have benches to watch the kids or have a romantical conversation in the moonlight......before ten because that's when the park closes. Opens again at five. You probably don't want to go too late if you are a female by yourself as it is heavily wooded and after dark you got to watch out for serial killers and snakes in the grass. Yes, I have seen a snake before. Yes, I did run as if my feet were on fire. There are also bunnies that come out of the woods. Cute, feral bunnies. Bring a friend or two and get your run, walk, or jog on. Come twice a day if you are about that life.

    Photos
    Copperhead poisonous snake. They are a lot out here.
    Copperhead poisonous snake. They are a lot out here.
    Dixie Farm Road Park
    Walking trails

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    Walking trails
    Stevenson Park

    Stevenson Park

    4.5
    (22 reviews)
    3.2 mi

    I'm not going to lie, as I was reading the reviews from Yelp and Google about Stevenson, I thought…read moreto myself, how can anyone call this park beautiful if it's stuck in the heart of Friendswood, TX? It wasn't until I got out of my vehicle and stepped on the red trail, walking, seeing so many dedication gardens in every area of the park. Who knew that Friendswood had its own flag to be flown so high next to the Texas and US flags? That is what made me feel that this park was a beauty, and I even thought of my surname park, Wilshire Park in Portland, OR. This park and that park can be compared to each other since both are surrounded by trees shading the path around the perimeter of the green space. Both have spaces for children to play, but Stevenson has added amenities, including the on-site pool, Texas native wildflower garden, splash pad, basketball, and tennis courts. The trail is 1/2 mile long, winding, and semi-narrow; when I am trying to tap into mindfulness, I tend to walk slower than a regular-paced person, and as I was walking, other park-goers were cutting me off to overwalk me and not giving me space when passing me up. I would have liked the path to be a tad wider in width to prevent this from happening. Nonetheless, it's still overall a solid neighborhood park and one would say a hidden gem. I wasn't expecting this place to be what it was and had a prenotion bias that it would have been like Frankie Carter Randolph and 1776 Park (two parks that I don't care for); but I am happy that it wasn't. Huge spacious parking lot with restrooms onsite. I think the artwork is from the same artist who painted bayou birds, natives, and animals at the Lynn Gripon (park in League City, TX) and Exploration Green (park in Clear Lake, Houston, TX), which is pretty cool if they are local to the area. I will have to add to this my list of parks to explore in the evenings and weekends!

    Perfect spot. Who knew this little gem was here. We were invited out for grad party, but this place…read morehas everything one could want in a park. It was a Saturday and yet it was nice and quiet. There's so much one can do, clean, and well maintained and supervised. Definitely will be returning to fully explore.

    Photos
    Another playground
    Another playground
    Super friendly or just little beggars haha
    Super friendly or just little beggars haha
    Community Pool

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    Community Pool

    Challenger 7 Memorial Park - hiking - Updated June 2026

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