The newest state park opened on March 1, just about an hour west of Parker County.
“We’re here, we’re open for business and ready to welcome everybody,” said James Miller, assistant superintendent of Palo Pinto Mountain State Park.
The park was made possible through “the culmination of collaborative efforts that include our Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation as well as private donors,” said Rodney Franklin, director of Texas State Parks.
The nearly 5,000-acre park, once ranch land, provides a space filled with recreational activities. It’s home to 16 miles of hike/bike trails, about 60 campsites, equestrian riding opportunities, lakeside and pier fishing, boating, kayaking, playgrounds, and plenty of areas to explore.
“We definitely try to be involved with the community and the neighboring towns,” said Miller. Along with an abundance of activities and scheduled events like archery, kayaking, and hikes people can attend, the staff work with local schools, participating in career days and hosting field trips.
A big focus is on accessibility, said Miller, to make sure the grounds are suitable for everyone. By including Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant features and reducing the steepness of areas, the park is doing what it can to “make it easier for folks to navigate the territory out here,” he said. “We just hope everybody has a positive experience.”
Palo Pinto Mountain State Park is the newest in 25 years. “This state park expands outdoor opportunities for families across our state and showcases the natural beauty that makes Texas, Texas,” said Texas Governor Greg Abbott. Miller said as they welcome visitors, he hopes for continued growth in the amount of people who utilize it in the upcoming years.
There are more state parks to come in the future:
Albert and Bessie Kronkosky State Natural Area - estimated 2026
Post Oak Ridge State Park – estimated 2029
Bear Creek State Park – estimated 2029
Honey Creek State Natural Area - estimated 2029
Powderhorn State Parks and Wildlife Management Area - estimated 2029
Chinati Mountains State Natural Area – estimated 2032
Davis Hill State Park – estimated 2034
For more information visit https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/palo-pinto-mountains or Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website.
Portions of this article were provided by press release.
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