Not only is Nacogdoches the oldest town in Texas, but it has also been named the Garden Capital of Texas, due to its many gardens, parks, trails, and green spaces. Where to bask in all of the garden splendor? Visit the beautiful Stephen F. Austin State University Gardens, a vast collection open to the public.
Why Visit the SFA Gardens?
The expansive gardens make for an excellent field trip to go with botany lessons, especially if you are learning about native plants. SFA is highly ranked in agriculture, forestry, and environmental sciences and has made the gardens both enjoyable and educational.
Have a Sculpture Scavenger Hunt at the Gardens
You could also use the garden for an art study. Many sculptures are located throughout the park. Print the SFA Gardens Scavenger Hunt to add to the fun!
What Can You Expect to See and Do?
There are four main areas, with many smaller gardens and features within them:
- Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden
- SFA Mast Arboretum (including the Children’s Garden)
- Piney Woods Native Plant Center (including Jimmy Hinds Park)
- Gayla Mize Garden
When you arrive, pick up one of their massive brochure maps. This will give you an idea of everything in the gardens. If you want to see it all, make sure you give yourself a few hours. You can also download individual garden brochures from the SFA Gardens Website.
During migration seasons, children will enjoy seeing the Monarch Waystation and Pollinator Garden, which is part of the Jim & Beth Kingham Children’s Garden, located in the Mast Arboretum section. The plants here are meant to attract and/or provide habitats for butterflies, bees, and birds.
FUN FACT: This location is a certified monarch waystation.
In springtime, the Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden is their crown jewel. Our visit was a tad early; the azaleas were just beginning to bloom. We still managed to get some great photos of the early bloomers, and enjoyed walking the grounds which still had plenty to see.
You also have the option to book a guided tour for $5 per person. Or, if you are looking to field trip with a class or homeschool group, they offer School Programs on a variety of topics.
The Basics
SFA Gardens
Parking: There are designated areas to park, including a lot south of the coliseum or at Starr Ave. & University Dr. for nearby access to the Ruby Mize Azalea Garden. Parking is free after 5pm and on the weekend.
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Fees: $5 if you’d like a guided tour (Tours must be booked in advance.)
Tips for Visitors
Public restrooms are located just south of the SFA Mast Arboretum by the Intramural Fields.
The SFA campus is also home to the Stone Fort Museum, telling the story of the not 6, but 9 flags that flew here.
Nacogdoches is the oldest town in Texas. Don’t miss out on other interesting field trip destinations in the area including:
- Millard’s Crossing Historic Village
- Durst Taylor Museum
- Sterne-Hoya House Museum
- SFA Interpreative Trail
Additional Resources
