Cedar Hill State Park

Open — Open year-round. Park hours are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Reservations strongly recommended for both camping and day use, especially on weekends and holidays. Trails close during wet weather; check park Facebook page or call ahead for current trail conditions.

About

Located just 20 miles from downtown Dallas and 30 miles from Fort Worth, Cedar Hill State Park provides an accessible escape into nature along the shores of Joe Pool Lake. The 1,826-acre park features diverse landscapes including rugged limestone hills and rare prairie pockets. With 350 developed campsites spread across multiple camping areas, all sites offer water and electricity hookups, and 150 sites provide full sewer connections. Hot showers and modern restrooms serve all camping areas. The park centers around the 7,500-acre Joe Pool Lake, offering excellent fishing for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish from two lighted fishing jetties or from shore. A gravel swimming beach provides lake access with nearby picnic facilities and a playground. Boaters can launch from two four-lane boat ramps with lighted trailer parking. The DORBA Trail system traverses 1,200 acres with routes for both hikers and mountain bikers, though trails close during wet conditions to prevent damage. The Penn Farm Agricultural History Center offers visitors a glimpse into over a century of Texas farming history through self-guided tours of the historic homestead. For those seeking a more primitive experience, 30 hike-in campsites are available along the trails. The park's proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex makes it a popular weekend destination, and reservations are strongly recommended for both day use and camping.

Directions

From Dallas, take I-20 west to FM 1382 exit. The park is located 4.5 miles south on FM 1382. From Austin and Waco, take I-35W north to Hwy 67 North at Alvarado. Travel approximately 25 miles to Cedar Hill, then take the FM 1382 exit. The park is located 2 miles west on FM 1382.

Nearby Campgrounds