Craig and I (Abilene State Park)

Craig and I (Abilene State Park)

From Hike, Explore, Repeat: Trailblazing Texas Podcast by Jason Lominac

March 5, 2026 · 1h 16m · Season 3 · Episode 107

About this episode

In this episode, Jason interviews Craig, the Superintendent of Abilene State Park, discussing leadership, conservation, and the unique features of the park.

Craig's Dedication and Favorite Quote: I’d like to dedicate the episode to all of the Texas voters who voted in favor of Prop 5 in 2019 and the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund in 2023. These wins for Texas State Parks help us build, maintain, and staff our incredible parks. The park experience would be a lot different without this funding. My favorite quote was popularized by Gene Wilder in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory: A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men. Episode Description: In this episode of Trailblazing Texas Podcast , I sit down with Craig, Superintendent of Abilene State Park, to talk about leadership, conservation, and the quiet strength of this West Texas gem. Craig shares his journey with Texas Parks & Wildlife, what inspired him to work in parks, and what daily life really looks like as a superintendent. We talk first impressions of the park, the atmosphere visitors notice right away, and what makes Abilene stand out among Texas’ state parks. We dive into camping options, favorite campsites, hiking trails, wildlife, and the best seasons to visit. Craig offers practical tips for first-time campers and hikers, along with insight…

People in this episode

Host: Jason Lominac

Guest: Craig

Topics covered

  • leadership
  • conservation
  • Texas state parks
  • camping
  • hiking
  • wildlife
  • Leave No Trace

Keywords

  • Abilene State Park
  • Texas voters
  • Prop 5
  • camping options
  • hiking trails
  • wildlife
  • CCC history

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Texas Parks & Wildlife, Centennial Parks Conservation Fund

Books & works: Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory

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