These Texas Spots Are Great for Free-Range Parenting

If you grew up in the '90s like I did, then you probably at one time or another were left to your own devices at some point; whether you were a latchkey kid or just someone who was always outside playing, this new term might seem a bit crazy to you!

In an age of screen time and GPS-tracked childhoods, some Texas towns are quietly bringing back the kind of freedom most of us thought was gone for good. Think bikes left on front lawns, kids building forts in the woods, and parents who aren’t hovering but still close enough to care. These communities aren’t just safe, they’re built for raising free-range kids who get to grow up wild, confident, and a little muddy. And according to a new nationwide survey, Texas has more than a few towns doing it right.

What Is Free Range Parenting?

Free-range parenting is a modern return to old-school values where kids are encouraged to explore, play independently, and learn through real-world experiences. It’s not about neglect or letting kids run wild; it’s about giving them the trust, space, and responsibility to grow into capable, confident humans. Think fewer screens, more scraped knees, and the kind of freedom that used to be a given to us ‘90s kids!

That return to freedom, with boundaries, is exactly what inspired a new nationwide survey of more than 3,000 parents. Conducted by We Buy Houses in Denver, the survey aimed to find out where in the U.S. families feel most empowered to raise free-range kids. Factoring in safety, community trust, access to nature, and lifestyle values, the results spotlighted a handful of towns where childhood still happens outdoors. And yes, Texas showed up strong!

What Texas Cities Are Perfect for Free-Range Parenting?

New Braunfels, Frisco and Dripping Springs came out on top as Texas’ best towns for raising free-range kids. Each town has a strong sense of community, not to mention low crime rates plus parks, community events, and walkable neighborhoods make it easy for kids to explore while allowing parents to breathe a little easier and giving kids an opportunity to thrive independently!

In a world that often feels too fast, too scheduled, and too much screen time, these Texas towns are proving that there’s still room for childhoods filled with scraped knees, muddy shoes, and front-yard adventures- who knows, maybe you’ll even catch them drinking from the hose!