Texas wildlife officials are set to open the gates of Palo Pinto Mountains State Park for the first time in March, granting early access to nearly 5,000 acres of North Texas terrain for hiking, biking, fishing, and camping ahead of a formal grand opening later this spring.
The 4,871-acre site, marking the first new state park in the region in over 25 years, sits between Abilene and the Dallas-Fort Worth area on former ranch land featuring juniper-covered hills, hardwood valleys, and a 90-acre lake.
Day use and overnight stays begin March 1, with visitors urged to reserve passes in advance due to expected crowds, especially during spring break.
“This is a tremendous moment for Texas State Parks and the state of Texas,” said Rodney Franklin, director of Texas State Parks. “Opening Palo Pinto Mountains State Park represents the culmination of collaborative efforts that includes our Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation as well as private donors. I am proud of the dedication of our TPWD team but also the unwavering support of the Texas Legislature and the voters of Texas that have brought us to this moment. State park staff stand ready to welcome families far and wide to begin making memories at Texas’ newest state park.”
Local anticipation runs high, according to park superintendent James Adams.“Folks around here are anxious to see this place opened,” he said in a news release. “We have been dropping some hints about opening soon and the excitement is real!”
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department acquired the property in 2011 after The Nature Conservancy assisted in assembling the land starting in 2008.
Construction, originally targeted for a 2023 debut, faced delays. Funding was drawn from legislative appropriations, the Sporting Goods Sales Tax, federal sources, and $10 million in private contributions through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation.
“We’re thrilled to see the gates at Palo Pinto Mountains State Park finally open to the visitors who have been eagerly awaiting this moment,” said Anne Brown, the foundation’s executive director. “We are deeply grateful to the Texas Legislature for its leadership and to the generous donors whose private support helped bring this park to life.
“Opening a new state park enhances quality of life for Texans across the region, and Palo Pinto Mountains stands as a powerful example of how public and private investment can work together to expand outdoor access and conserve the landscapes that define our state for generations to come.”
More than 16 miles of trails cater to various skill levels, from short family outings to longer moderate routes. Spring visitors might catch vibrant wildflowers such as Indian blankets, yellow coneflowers, white prickly poppies, lemon beebalm, and evening primrose. Autumn brings reds from oaks and sumac, golds from pecans and elms.
The park hosts migratory birds, including the endangered golden-cheeked warbler, during summer. Tucker Lake allows fishing, non-motorized boating, and swimming, with an accessible kayak launch and dock.
Camping options include RV hookups, walk-in tent sites, and primitive areas, along with group facilities such as a pavilion, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
Officials note ongoing final work and advise caution and adherence to guidelines. Reservations for day passes are available online at the TPWD site or by phone at (512) 389-8900.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott celebrated the park’s opening with an announcement of his own:
“The opening of the Palo Pinto Mountains State Park marks an exciting new landscape for Texans to explore,” Abbott said. “This state park will expand outdoor opportunities for families across our state and showcase the natural beauty that makes Texas, Texas. With the addition of this state park, generations of Texans will be able to enjoy over 4,000 acres of natural landscape for years to come.”
Other state parks that are currently in development include:
- 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
A $70 Texas State Parks Pass covers entry fees to all open state parks for a year for passholders and vehicle guests, plus discounts on stays and store items. Passes can be bought online, by phone, or at parks.
Details on events, maps, and the park are on the TPWD website.