Texas Border Business
AUSTIN, Texas – Beginning at 8 a.m. CST on March 8, day pass reservations for April 8 will become available for those wishing to experience the total eclipse from the scenic vantage points of Texas state parks. The Texas State Parks Reservations Center is ready to assist at 512-389-8900, and online reservations are open for all locations except Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, which will accept phone reservations starting March 11.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is preparing for a surge in demand, as day passes are expected to sell out quickly on a first-come, first-served basis. High call volumes are anticipated on both March 8 and March 11, and TPWD encourages patience from callers as agents work diligently to manage inquiries.
To streamline the reservation process, TPWD advises having your vehicle’s details on hand, including the license plate number, make, model, and passenger count, specifying the number of adults and children under 12. Payment information, specifically a credit card, is also necessary to secure your reservation, with bilingual agents available for assistance in Spanish.
With the eclipse’s path of totality covering 31 Texas state parks, and partial visibility from others, those parks are expected to reach full capacity. Visitors are reminded to secure their day pass or overnight reservation in advance to guarantee entry.
| Here are some tips to ensure a smooth reservation experience: |
| • Before March 8, create a reservation strategy and familiarize yourself with the online booking system. It’s recommended to set up an account in advance if you haven’t already. |
| • Choose up to three parks as your top choices for online reservations. If your initial choices are unavailable, the call center can offer alternative park options. |
| • Remember, park admission fees apply for visitors aged 13 and older, while children 12 and under enjoy free entry. Holders of the Texas State Park Pass can bypass day pass fees for all vehicle occupants but must still reserve their spot in advance, as the pass does not guarantee park entry. |
Additional information on this exciting event can be found on TPWD’s eclipse viewing website and the eclipse viewing FAQ website.
