Big Spring State Park is located in an area where three ecological regions merge. To the north and east are the western Rolling Plains; to the south is the Edwards Plateau; and to the west are the southern High Plains (also known as the Llano Estacado or the Staked Plains). The mixing of ecological regions results in a variety of plant and animal life since representatives from each region are often found overlapping in a relatively small area. Domestic livestock have not grazed the park land for over 50 years, and, as a consequence, vegetation typical for the semiarid region blankets the park. Large woody plant species include mesquite, shin oak, skunkbush sumac, and redberry juniper. Prickly pear and other cacti are common on the rocky slops of the park. Common wildlife such as cottontails, jackrabbits, ground squirrels, and roadrunners can often be seen, particularly early or late in the day. Even a small prairie dog town lies in a little valley on the south side of the park. Many of the area's numerous and varied bird species can also be observed. Watch for wildlife near our ponds. A burrowing owl population can be observed at a nearby airpark.

Therefore the Big Spring State Park have created a short (0.65 mile round trip) nature hike that allows walkers to experience this outstanding environment.

Directions: From Midland, TX, Take Interstate 20 East to Big Spring, take Business 20 exit eastbound (exit #174), turn right onto FM 700, and the park is located on the right. For westbound Interstate 20 traffic, take exit 181A, and the park will be on the left. For traffic off of US Highway 87, follow the brown park signs indicating to turn onto FM 700; you will make your turn near the VA Hospital.

The Big Spring State Park have created a short (0.65 mile round trip) nature hike that allows walkers to experience the area's outstanding environment.