Fort Parker State Park

Open — Open year-round. Park gates open 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on spring, early summer, and fall weekends when the park can reach capacity.

About

Fort Parker State Park spans 750 acres of lake and natural landscapes where the Navasota River and two ecosystems converge in central Texas. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, the park features a historic dam that formed Fort Parker Lake, along with trails, camping facilities, and recreational opportunities just 90 miles south of the DFW Metroplex. The park offers diverse outdoor activities including fishing for channel and blue catfish, white and black bass, and crappie in the lake, spring-fed Lake Springfield, or the Navasota River. Paddlers can explore the 5.3-mile Limestone Bluffs Paddling Trail by canoe or kayak, while hikers and cyclists enjoy seven miles of trails including the Springfield Trail with views of the CCC-built dam, and the Bur Oak Trail featuring native plant identification. Campsites are scattered around the lake's edge with most offering water views and proximity to restrooms with showers. The park provides both tent and RV camping options, screened shelters, and cabins. Group facilities include a barracks complex with dining hall sleeping 78 people, a recreation hall, and primitive group camps. The park is known for spectacular Central Texas sunsets and serves as a gateway to area attractions including the historic Old Fort Parker and Confederate Reunion Grounds State Historic Site.

Directions

The park is located seven miles south of Mexia or six miles north of Groesbeck on State Highway 14; the entrance is on Park Road 28.

Nearby Campgrounds