San Angelo State Park Photos

this guy is always looking for a meal - don't be his next one! Drink plenty of fluids, watch where you step and stay safe while hiking. (Photo by MikeHikes)

Saw this female Mexican Ground Squirrel eating what I think is a nut near Cougar Outlook. Don't see too many of these squirrels on the trails. (Photo by MikeHikes)

This guy was watching me as I approached. When he was first spotted in this photo, he was standing up, however, the closer I approached, the lower he went. By the time I reached him, he was flat on the ground. (Photo by MikeHikes)

As cute as they are, these calves are not pets! Calves are with their mothers who can be very protective. Stay safe, take a picture from a distance and leave them alone! (Photo by MikeHikes)

This Mississippi Kite and his/her numerous companions were out in force today. I was able to capture a few shots of this one chowing down on what looks like a cicada, while flying. (Photo by MikeHikes)

This fox was hunting for a minute or so and didn't notice me at all. When he saw me and walked closer to investigate, he finally caught my scent and disappeared within a second or two. He was seen around noon on an overcast, windy day. (Photo by MikeHikes)

It's easy to see how these guys blend into their environment. He watched me but didn't take off until after I snapped the shot. (Photo by MikeHikes)

As can be seen, this old can served a useful purpose to a small snake. The snake used the sharp edge of one hole so it could shed it's old skin. No bones found in the can so the snake was able to slither out successfully. (Photo by MikeHikes)

Although the word "Night" is part of the Common Nighthawks' name, they can be found swooping through the air catching insects during the day - beautiful birds! (Photo by MikeHikes)

Prickly pear cactus are starting to bloom and this one is the best example. In a few weeks there should be many, many more! (Photo by MikeHikes)

This view is from Roller Coaster Trail as I look to the North. The houses to the left of the juniper bush are in the Highland Ridge Housing Area which abuts the park. (Photo by MikeHikes)

Lots of dragonflies out near the pond on Winding Snake. Don't know what his proper name is but when he is flying, his wings look like box kites! (Photo by MikeHikes)

The lace cactus are blooming and the bees are busy! Take the time to observe and appreciate all the beauty in the park and don't worry about how fast you can hike, bike or ride the trails! (Photo by MikeHikes)

Be advised the longhorns wander within some hiking areas of the park - they are NOT PETS and can be protective when calves are around. Respect them, leave them alone and they will leave you alone. (Photo by MikeHikes)

I sighted my first Horned Toad of 2014 while on Dinosaur Trail. PLEASE be aware of the park's small residents! It would be very easy to accidentally step on, or roll your bike's tire over, one of these guys and if you did, you know how you'd feel :-( (Photo by MikeHikes)

With the recent moisture, I won't call it "rain", some flowers are blooming. (Photo by MikeHikes)

Saw this Lace cactus on Armadillo Ridge Trail. Was one of a colony of two blooming cacti. (Photo by MikeHikes)

Burkett Park has a parking area, dry toilets, water for humans and horses and a covered picnic table with a few more picnic tables down the road. Good place to begin many hikes in the South Shore. (Photo by MikeHikes)

Just a few of the longhorns at the park. Observe but don't annoy - they are best left alone, especially when calves are present. (Photo by MikeHikes)

This road runs East and connects with another service road which takes you back to Burkett Park. Be advised the road is not consistently groomed and can be overgrown with waist high weeds. (Photo by MikeHikes)

Playground Trail along the edge of the plateau is rocky and narrow in some places. Scenic views on this route!! (Photo by MikeHikes)

Lots of rock and some easy climbing. When you follow the trail, keep your eyes open to the left for a path that goes to the plateau - you should take it. (Photo by MikeHikes)

This is near the beginning of the East Potts Creek trail. Lots of mesquites; an easy to hike trail until you get near the end where it connects to Armadillo Trail. (Photo by MikeHikes)

This is one of the abandoned picnic shelters encountered along Winding Snake Trail. (Photo by MikeHikes)