Texas State Park Police

08/31/2026

Join us in saying a heartfelt goodbye to Chief, Wes Masur. 30 years of service with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department encompasses many accomplishments, a lot of changes, and what can be considered great growth and progress, especially among the program he led for many of those thirty years, the Texas State Park Police.

Wes’ youth was spent in Lockhart State Park, which he was blessed to call home for much of his childhood. His father, Mike Masur, was part of the second class of Texas State Park Police Officers, and the superintendent of Lockhart State Park. Having a dad who was an officer exposed Masur beginning at the age of two, to several of his father’s law enforcement friends. “Many of these officers had a great influence on me, and I admired each of them”. Growing up deeply rooted in his father’s public service, stewardship, and protection of Texas’ natural resources made a huge impact on Wes and would ultimately influence how he approached his role as chief.
During his service with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Wes climbed the ranks from State Park Police Officer, to Headquarter Police Supervisor, Regional Law Enforcement Coordinator position, State Law Enforcement Coordinator, State Park Police Program Director, Major of State Park Police Program, and ultimately Chief of Texas State Park Police, where he led a group of outstanding and highly trained professionals.

His accomplishments as chief include a complete organizational restructuring and reclassification of the entire chain of command, securing competitive compensation for officers, reinventing the program’s recruitment and training, and modernizing equipment and technology. These many accomplishments would ultimately culminate in Wes receiving the National Award for Leadership from the Park Law Enforcement Association (PLEA) in 2026. This prestigious recognition reflects not only his hard work and dedication, but also the significant impact he has made on the Texas State Park Police. His leadership, along with the entire team of officers, is what elevated the visibility and reputation of Texas State Park Police on the national level, and helped make Texas State Park Police a model for other states.

Please join us as we congratulate Chief Masur on 30 years of outstanding service to TPWD and Texas State Park Police.

08/29/2026

Last week State Park Police, park staff, and first responders responded to a medical search and rescue at Garner State Park. The visitor broke their leg traversing a steep trail with difficult washed-out terrain. Park Police and staff secured the visitor in a Rescue Basket, using ropes and grit to bring her down safely. The visitor was safely recovered for further medical attention. Before you head out for a hike, remember

💧Bring plenty of food and water
ℹ️ Let someone know where you’ll be and when you expect to be back
🥾For steep elevation or difficult terrain consider trekking poles
🫡 Know your limits.

08/28/2026

This week State Park Police assisted with the Rio Escondido Fire alongside local and state law enforcement agencies, securing the safety of the people and livestock of Hamilton County.

Game Wardens and State Park Police cleared residences, assisted civilians with trailers in moving livestock away from the area, and secured road closures for public safety.

The fire is nearly but not completely contained. Residents are advised to cooperate with officials and avoid areas affected by the fire.

08/27/2026

Join us in celebrating Captain John Moore for 20 years with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

John Moore’s passion for Texas State Parks started with his family in central Texas when he was young. Visiting Lockhart and Bastrop State Park as his local parks. John grew to love all things outdoor recreation, fishing, hunting, camping, biking, and most importantly spending time outside. John’s favorite park is Martin Dies Jr State Park, far from his central Texas roots, but close to his heart with memories of visiting family in Jasper.

John looks forward to continuing his career with an agency that aligns with his values. We’re proud to honor an officer that embodies the values and mission statement of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and look forward to continuing to work with an exceptional individual.

08/26/2026

After 30 years with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Captain Collis Park is retiring from service with the State Park Police.

Collis’ career with TPWD hast taken him to many beautiful places in Texas. He began his TPWD career in July 1996 at Lake Mineral Wells State Park as a Trail Ranger until promoting to Lead Ranger / State Park Police Officer at Dinosaur Valley State Park. In April 2008, Collis became Park Superintendent / State Park Police Officer at Cleburne State Park. In February 2013, he moved to South Texas after being selected as the Region 2 Lieutenant, where he was stationed in Rockport.
In September 2015, Collis achieved the rank of Captain, serving as the State Parks Region 2 Captain until June 2023. He then made a lateral transfer to become the Region 5 Captain, a position he held until his retirement on August 31, 2026.

Collis was attracted to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department due to working outdoors, enjoying nature while serving the community and public while protecting natural and cultural resources for all to enjoy. Collis says it has been a rewarding 30-year career building working relationships with other divisions within TPWD along with local, state and federal agencies. After three decades of service, Collis says he will miss the people who made his career special.

Collis plans on starting out retirement enjoying hunting, fishing (relearning how to freshwater fish again), traveling, enjoying family and relaxing for a while before possibly starting up a small business and working for himself.

"I will truly miss the comradery and friendships with my brothers, sisters and TPWD family but it is time to move on and enjoy family and life." - Captain Collis Park

Tight Lines, Captain

08/25/2026

08/25/2026

Good news for dove season!
Mourning and white-winged dove numbers continue to trend near historic highs.

👉 Dove forecast: bit.ly/DoveForecast26
👉 Dove report: bit.ly/DoveReport

08/24/2026

We invite you to the 2nd Annual Run for Hope event held at the Game Warden Training Center on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 8:00 AM. Experience a unique family fun run or walk fundraiser benefit for children fighting cancer. All ages and fitness levels are welcome.

Visit the link or scan the QR code for more details.

https://runsignup.com/Race/TX/Hamilton/GWTCRun4HOPE

08/21/2026

Last week, park police officers and park rangers conducted a search and rescue for visitors losing consciousness due to the heat at Caprock Canyon State Park. The visitors were safely recovered, but we’d like to take this opportunity to remind visitors about heat safety with the following safety tips, don’t be the next rescue:

💧Bring enough water (at least 16-32oz of water per person per hour)
🔆Wear Sun protection
🗺Take a map and have a plan
🤠know your limits
🐶Protect your pets

08/20/2026

After 23 years with Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, Major Douglas Huggins is retiring from service with the State Park Police.

Major Huggins had the pleasure and the honor of working across special places throughout Texas. Starting at Palo Duro Canyon State Park, moving to Atlanta State Park, then Bastrop and Buescher State Park. Climbing the ranks from Lieutenant to Captain, and finally Major. As Major, Huggins was responsible for Southeast and South Texas regions.

His retirement plan? Spending valuable time with family and friends, cooking, and enjoying the outdoors. Like father like son, his son is a major for his schools marching band as a drum major. Huggins is looking forward to being home more to support his son’s senior year endeavors.

“It’s been a rewarding career dedicated to Texas State Parks, supporting our communities, and serving roughly 10 million visitors a year. I’m grateful for the opportunity.” – Douglas Huggins

Please join us in congratulating Major Huggins on 23 years of amazing service.