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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lake-wilson-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-virtual-cooking-class-gluten-free-holiday-treats-111224-d5nv2lwr2tl.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-VIRTUAL-COOKING-CLASS-GLUTEN-FREE-HOLIDAY-TREATS">Virtual Cooking Class: Gluten Free Holiday Treats</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Brand Live</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-p2p-payment-apps-virtual-mn-111324-vkn89ss9jfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SENDING-MONEY-SAFELY-THROUGH-P2P-PAYMENT-APPS">Sending Money Safely Through P2P Payment Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-mobile-health-apps-virtual-mn-111824-fmndf4dzj7c.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-GET-MOVING-WITH-MOBILE-HEALTH-APPS">Get Moving with Mobile Health Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-LAKEWILSON-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Big Spring State Park - Lake Wilson, MN</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Big Spring State Park - Lake Wilson, MN"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that" name="description"/> <meta content="Big, Spring, State, Park, Lake, Wilson, MN" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.229599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-101.489998"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lake-wilson-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-virtual-cooking-class-gluten-free-holiday-treats-111224-d5nv2lwr2tl.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-VIRTUAL-COOKING-CLASS-GLUTEN-FREE-HOLIDAY-TREATS">Virtual Cooking Class: Gluten Free Holiday Treats</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Brand Live</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-p2p-payment-apps-virtual-mn-111324-vkn89ss9jfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SENDING-MONEY-SAFELY-THROUGH-P2P-PAYMENT-APPS">Sending Money Safely Through P2P Payment Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-mobile-health-apps-virtual-mn-111824-fmndf4dzj7c.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-GET-MOVING-WITH-MOBILE-HEALTH-APPS">Get Moving with Mobile Health Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-LAKEWILSON-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Big Spring State Park - Lake Wilson, MN</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Big Spring State Park - Lake Wilson, MN"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.head.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_global_js_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_global_js.html"); ?>
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lake-wilson-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-virtual-cooking-class-gluten-free-holiday-treats-111224-d5nv2lwr2tl.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-VIRTUAL-COOKING-CLASS-GLUTEN-FREE-HOLIDAY-TREATS">Virtual Cooking Class: Gluten Free Holiday Treats</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Brand Live</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-p2p-payment-apps-virtual-mn-111324-vkn89ss9jfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SENDING-MONEY-SAFELY-THROUGH-P2P-PAYMENT-APPS">Sending Money Safely Through P2P Payment Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-mobile-health-apps-virtual-mn-111824-fmndf4dzj7c.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-GET-MOVING-WITH-MOBILE-HEALTH-APPS">Get Moving with Mobile Health Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-LAKEWILSON-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Big Spring State Park - Lake Wilson, MN</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Big Spring State Park - Lake Wilson, MN"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that" name="description"/> <meta content="Big, Spring, State, Park, Lake, Wilson, MN" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.229599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-101.489998"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lake-wilson-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-virtual-cooking-class-gluten-free-holiday-treats-111224-d5nv2lwr2tl.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-VIRTUAL-COOKING-CLASS-GLUTEN-FREE-HOLIDAY-TREATS">Virtual Cooking Class: Gluten Free Holiday Treats</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Brand Live</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-p2p-payment-apps-virtual-mn-111324-vkn89ss9jfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SENDING-MONEY-SAFELY-THROUGH-P2P-PAYMENT-APPS">Sending Money Safely Through P2P Payment Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-mobile-health-apps-virtual-mn-111824-fmndf4dzj7c.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-GET-MOVING-WITH-MOBILE-HEALTH-APPS">Get Moving with Mobile Health Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-LAKEWILSON-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Big Spring State Park - Lake Wilson, MN</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Big Spring State Park - Lake Wilson, MN"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. 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Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lake-wilson-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-virtual-cooking-class-gluten-free-holiday-treats-111224-d5nv2lwr2tl.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-VIRTUAL-COOKING-CLASS-GLUTEN-FREE-HOLIDAY-TREATS">Virtual Cooking Class: Gluten Free Holiday Treats</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Brand Live</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-p2p-payment-apps-virtual-mn-111324-vkn89ss9jfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SENDING-MONEY-SAFELY-THROUGH-P2P-PAYMENT-APPS">Sending Money Safely Through P2P Payment Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-mobile-health-apps-virtual-mn-111824-fmndf4dzj7c.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-GET-MOVING-WITH-MOBILE-HEALTH-APPS">Get Moving with Mobile Health Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-LAKEWILSON-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Big Spring State Park - Lake Wilson, MN</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Big Spring State Park - Lake Wilson, MN"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that" name="description"/> <meta content="Big, Spring, State, Park, Lake, Wilson, MN" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.229599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-101.489998"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lake-wilson-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-virtual-cooking-class-gluten-free-holiday-treats-111224-d5nv2lwr2tl.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-VIRTUAL-COOKING-CLASS-GLUTEN-FREE-HOLIDAY-TREATS">Virtual Cooking Class: Gluten Free Holiday Treats</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Brand Live</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-p2p-payment-apps-virtual-mn-111324-vkn89ss9jfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SENDING-MONEY-SAFELY-THROUGH-P2P-PAYMENT-APPS">Sending Money Safely Through P2P Payment Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-mobile-health-apps-virtual-mn-111824-fmndf4dzj7c.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-GET-MOVING-WITH-MOBILE-HEALTH-APPS">Get Moving with Mobile Health Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-LAKEWILSON-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Big Spring State Park - Lake Wilson, MN</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Big Spring State Park - Lake Wilson, MN"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that" name="description"/> <meta content="Big, Spring, State, Park, Lake, Wilson, MN" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lake-wilson-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-virtual-cooking-class-gluten-free-holiday-treats-111224-d5nv2lwr2tl.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-VIRTUAL-COOKING-CLASS-GLUTEN-FREE-HOLIDAY-TREATS">Virtual Cooking Class: Gluten Free Holiday Treats</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Brand Live</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-p2p-payment-apps-virtual-mn-111324-vkn89ss9jfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SENDING-MONEY-SAFELY-THROUGH-P2P-PAYMENT-APPS">Sending Money Safely Through P2P Payment Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-mobile-health-apps-virtual-mn-111824-fmndf4dzj7c.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-GET-MOVING-WITH-MOBILE-HEALTH-APPS">Get Moving with Mobile Health Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-LAKEWILSON-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Big Spring State Park - Lake Wilson, MN</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Big Spring State Park - Lake Wilson, MN"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that" name="description"/> <meta content="Big, Spring, State, Park, Lake, Wilson, MN" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.229599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-101.489998"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lake-wilson-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-virtual-cooking-class-gluten-free-holiday-treats-111224-d5nv2lwr2tl.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-VIRTUAL-COOKING-CLASS-GLUTEN-FREE-HOLIDAY-TREATS">Virtual Cooking Class: Gluten Free Holiday Treats</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Brand Live</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-p2p-payment-apps-virtual-mn-111324-vkn89ss9jfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SENDING-MONEY-SAFELY-THROUGH-P2P-PAYMENT-APPS">Sending Money Safely Through P2P Payment Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-mobile-health-apps-virtual-mn-111824-fmndf4dzj7c.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-GET-MOVING-WITH-MOBILE-HEALTH-APPS">Get Moving with Mobile Health Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.
Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.
Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Both city and park were named for a natural spring that" name="description"/> <meta content="Big, Spring, State, Park, Lake, Wilson, MN" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.229599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-101.489998"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.229599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-101.489998"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/lake-wilson-mn/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Lake Wilson, MN</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/lake-wilson-mn/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lake-wilson-mn/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lake-wilson-mn/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lake-wilson-mn/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lake-wilson-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lake-wilson-mn/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lake-wilson-mn/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lake-wilson-mn/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lake-wilson-mn/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lake-wilson-mn/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lake-wilson-mn/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lake-wilson-mn/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lake-wilson-mn/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?>
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include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lake-wilson-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-virtual-cooking-class-gluten-free-holiday-treats-111224-d5nv2lwr2tl.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-VIRTUAL-COOKING-CLASS-GLUTEN-FREE-HOLIDAY-TREATS">Virtual Cooking Class: Gluten Free Holiday Treats</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Brand Live</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-p2p-payment-apps-virtual-mn-111324-vkn89ss9jfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SENDING-MONEY-SAFELY-THROUGH-P2P-PAYMENT-APPS">Sending Money Safely Through P2P Payment Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-mobile-health-apps-virtual-mn-111824-fmndf4dzj7c.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-GET-MOVING-WITH-MOBILE-HEALTH-APPS">Get Moving with Mobile Health Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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Both city and park were named for a natural spring that" name="description"/> <meta content="Big, Spring, State, Park, Lake, Wilson, MN" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.229599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-101.489998"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Both city and park were named for a natural spring that" name="description"/> <meta content="Big, Spring, State, Park, Lake, Wilson, MN" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.229599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-101.489998"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.229599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-101.489998"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/lake-wilson-mn/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Lake Wilson, MN</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/lake-wilson-mn/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lake-wilson-mn/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lake-wilson-mn/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lake-wilson-mn/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lake-wilson-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lake-wilson-mn/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lake-wilson-mn/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lake-wilson-mn/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lake-wilson-mn/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lake-wilson-mn/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lake-wilson-mn/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lake-wilson-mn/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lake-wilson-mn/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lake-wilson-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-virtual-cooking-class-gluten-free-holiday-treats-111224-d5nv2lwr2tl.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-VIRTUAL-COOKING-CLASS-GLUTEN-FREE-HOLIDAY-TREATS">Virtual Cooking Class: Gluten Free Holiday Treats</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Brand Live</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-p2p-payment-apps-virtual-mn-111324-vkn89ss9jfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SENDING-MONEY-SAFELY-THROUGH-P2P-PAYMENT-APPS">Sending Money Safely Through P2P Payment Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-mobile-health-apps-virtual-mn-111824-fmndf4dzj7c.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-GET-MOVING-WITH-MOBILE-HEALTH-APPS">Get Moving with Mobile Health Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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Both city and park were named for a natural spring that" name="description"/> <meta content="Big, Spring, State, Park, Lake, Wilson, MN" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.229599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-101.489998"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Both city and park were named for a natural spring that" name="description"/> <meta content="Big, Spring, State, Park, Lake, Wilson, MN" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.229599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-101.489998"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lake-wilson-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-virtual-cooking-class-gluten-free-holiday-treats-111224-d5nv2lwr2tl.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-VIRTUAL-COOKING-CLASS-GLUTEN-FREE-HOLIDAY-TREATS">Virtual Cooking Class: Gluten Free Holiday Treats</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Brand Live</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-p2p-payment-apps-virtual-mn-111324-vkn89ss9jfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SENDING-MONEY-SAFELY-THROUGH-P2P-PAYMENT-APPS">Sending Money Safely Through P2P Payment Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-mobile-health-apps-virtual-mn-111824-fmndf4dzj7c.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-GET-MOVING-WITH-MOBILE-HEALTH-APPS">Get Moving with Mobile Health Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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Both city and park were named for a natural spring that" name="description"/> <meta content="Big, Spring, State, Park, Lake, Wilson, MN" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Big Spring State Park"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="32.229599"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-101.489998"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Big Spring State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>No. 1 Scenic Drive</div> <div> <span>Big Spring</span>, <span>TX</span> <span>79720</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/big-spring" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 432-263-4931</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Big+Spring+State+Park%2C+No.+1+Scenic+Drive%2C+Big+Spring%2C+TX+79720" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Big Spring State Park is 381.99 acres located within the city limits of Big Spring in Howard County. Both city and park were named for a natural spring that was replaced by an artificial one. The park was deeded by the city of Big Spring in 1934 and 1935, and opened in 1936.</p> <p>Comanches and earlier Indian groups frequently visited the park area in the past, probably attracted by the permanent source of spring water. Spaniards may have first visited the area as early as 1768. However, the first recorded mention of the spring is from an Oct. 3, 1849, entry in the journal of Capt. R.B. Marcy of the U.S. Cavalry on his return excursion from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Other visitors to the park and spring include cattle drovers and immigrants moving to new territories, as can be seen by carvings they left behind (circa 1917, turn of the century). Today the city of Big Spring occupies the area and is involved in several businesses such as agriculture, tourism and the refining of petroleum. Nearby, Interstate 20 transports high volumes of traffic east and west across Texas.</p> <p>Shortly after the State of Texas acquired the park property in 1934, the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was created during the Great Depression to employ young men unable to find jobs. Using limestone quarried on the site and quality workmanship, the CCC built the pavilion, headquarters, residence, pumphouse and restroom. Their biggest project was the three-mile drive that loops around the mountain following the ledge of limestone rimrock capping the bluff. Retaining walls for the drive were built using large blocks of limestone, some weighing as much as two tons, and mortarless masonry techniques.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lake-wilson-mn/report/place/big-spring-state-park-big-spring-tx.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lake-wilson-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lake Wilson</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-virtual-cooking-class-gluten-free-holiday-treats-111224-d5nv2lwr2tl.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-VIRTUAL-COOKING-CLASS-GLUTEN-FREE-HOLIDAY-TREATS">Virtual Cooking Class: Gluten Free Holiday Treats</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Brand Live</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-p2p-payment-apps-virtual-mn-111324-vkn89ss9jfn.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SENDING-MONEY-SAFELY-THROUGH-P2P-PAYMENT-APPS">Sending Money Safely Through P2P Payment Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Wednesday, Nov 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-mobile-health-apps-virtual-mn-111824-fmndf4dzj7c.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-GET-MOVING-WITH-MOBILE-HEALTH-APPS">Get Moving with Mobile Health Apps</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Nov 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Virtual</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lake-wilson-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LAKEWILSON-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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