Mother Neff State Park

Open — Open daily year-round. The upper camping loop and visitor center remain accessible even during flooding. The lower riverfront area with tent sites is closed indefinitely due to flood damage. The south gate is closed permanently.

About

Mother Neff State Park holds a special place in Texas history as one of the state's earliest parks, founded in 1921 when Isabella Neff donated the original six acres. Located along a scenic stretch of the Leon River southwest of Waco, this park offers visitors a chance to explore Central Texas' natural beauty and rich heritage. Following severe flooding in 2015, the park built a new camping loop and visitor center above the floodplain, ensuring year-round access even during high water events. The park features 20 full hookup campsites with water, sewer, and 50/30-amp electricity on level cement pads, plus a restroom with ADA-accessible showers. Nearly 3.5 miles of trails wind through the park, ranging from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging terrain, leading to notable destinations including the Wash Pond, the historic CCC Rock Tower, and a cave shelter used by the Tonkawa tribe in the 1800s. The park is actively restoring native prairie and grasslands, creating important habitat for wildlife including the endangered golden-cheeked warbler. Visitors can explore interactive displays at the visitor center, participate in ranger programs, shop at the park store, and enjoy geocaching and birdwatching. The lower riverfront area with 15 tent sites remains closed due to flood damage. Swimming and fishing are not permitted due to river conditions. The park serves as a gateway to area attractions in Waco, Temple, and Gatesville, all within 25-32 miles.

Directions

From Waco, take I-35 South to Exit 315 (FM 107 Moody Marlin), turn right onto FM 107, continue 13 miles through Moody, then turn left onto SH 236; the park entrance is half a mile ahead on the right. From Temple, take I-35 North to Exit 301 (SH 53, FM 2305), turn left onto SH 53, continue 5.7 miles to SH 317 North towards Moody, in 11 miles turn left onto FM 107, then in 6.4 miles turn left onto SH 236; the park entrance is half a mile ahead on the right. From Gatesville, travel 17 miles on FM 107, turn right onto SH 236; the park entrance is half a mile ahead on the right.

Nearby Campgrounds