Cedar Ridge Preserve: Hours, Trails, Camping and Parking Details

Cedar Ridge Preserve is a hidden gem just outside of Dallas, Texas, offering a peaceful escape into nature. Spanning 600 acres, this scenic retreat features rolling hills, diverse plant life, and some of the best hiking trails in North Texas.

Managed by Audubon Dallas, the preserve plays a crucial role in local conservation efforts, protecting native ecosystems while providing a space for outdoor enthusiasts to connect with nature.

See also: 15 Best Romantic Things to Do in Dallas

Cedar Ridge Preserve: Location & Accessibility

Cedar Ridge Preserve is located at: 7171 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, TX 75249

If you’re coming from downtown Dallas, it’s just a 20-minute drive via TX-408 Spur S and W Camp Wisdom Rd. Visitors from Fort Worth or Arlington can take I-20 E to Mountain Creek Parkway.

The preserve is also accessible from Grand Prairie, Irving, and other nearby cities, making it an ideal day trip for anyone looking to explore nature without straying too far from the metroplex.

Entrance Fees & Hours

Cost: Entry is free, but donations are encouraged to support the preserve’s maintenance and conservation efforts. A suggested donation of $3 per person helps keep the trails in great condition.

Seasonal Hours & Best Times to Visit

Operating Hours:

• Tuesday – Sunday: 6:30 AM – Dusk
• Closed on Mondays

Best Times to Visit:

• Spring & Fall: Ideal weather, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage.
• Summer: Hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the Texas heat.
• Winter: Cooler and less crowded, offering a peaceful hiking experience.

Parking & Hours of Operation

• Parking: Free, but limited (arrive early on weekends to secure a spot).
• Hours: Open Tuesday – Sunday, from 6:30 AM to dusk (Closed Mondays).
• Entry Fee: Free, but donations are encouraged to support conservation efforts.

Nearby Attractions

Looking to extend your adventure? Here are some great nearby parks and dining options for a perfect day out.

Other Parks & Nature Spots

Cedar Hill State Park (10 minutes away) – Offers lake activities, camping, and additional hiking trails.
Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center (15 minutes away) – Another beautiful nature preserve with birdwatching and guided hikes.
Mountain Creek Lake Park (20 minutes away) – A peaceful lakeside spot with fishing and picnic areas.

Best Post-Hike Dining Options

Hillside Tavern (5 miles away) – A local favorite for burgers and hearty meals.
Campuzano Mexican Food (6 miles away) – Great spot for tacos and refreshing margaritas after a long hike.
Verf’s Tavern & Grill (7 miles away) – Serves healthy salads, grilled chicken, and energy-packed meals.

Hiking at Cedar Ridge Preserve

Cedar Ridge Preserve is a hiker’s paradise, offering a diverse range of trails that wind through lush forests, rolling hills, and scenic overlooks. With 9 miles of well-maintained hiking trails, there’s something for every skill level—from casual walkers to seasoned adventurers.

Overview of Hiking Trails

The trails at Cedar Ridge Preserve vary in difficulty, making it easy to find a route that matches your experience and fitness level.

• Easy Trails: Ideal for beginners and families, these trails are mostly flat with minimal elevation changes.
• Moderate Trails: These offer a mix of gentle inclines and scenic views, perfect for hikers looking for a bit more challenge.
• Challenging Trails: Featuring steep climbs, wooden stairs, and rugged terrain, these are best suited for experienced hikers or those seeking an intense workout.

Best Trails to Explore

1. Cattail Pond Trail (Moderate – 2.3 miles roundtrip)

Highlights: Scenic pond, shaded pathways, peaceful surroundings
Ideal for: Hikers who want a rewarding nature experience without an intense climb

One of the most popular trails at Cedar Ridge Preserve, Cattail Pond Trail offers a perfect mix of challenge and beauty. The trail winds through wooded areas, leading to a picturesque pond that reflects the surrounding trees, making it an excellent spot for photos or a quiet break.

Expect moderate elevation changes and a few rocky sections, but overall, it’s a well-balanced trail for hikers looking to explore nature without pushing their limits.

2. Cedar Brake Trail (Challenging – 2 miles loop)

Highlights: Steep inclines, wooden staircases, dense greenery
Ideal for: Experienced hikers or those wanting a solid workout

For those seeking a tougher hike, Cedar Brake Trail delivers. This challenging loop takes you through some of the preserve’s most rugged terrain, featuring steep hills, staircases, and narrow dirt paths.

The elevation gain provides a rewarding leg workout, while the surrounding oak and cedar trees create a serene, shaded environment. If you’re up for a challenge, this is one of the best trails to test your endurance.

3. Possumhaw Trail (Easy – 0.6 miles loop)

Highlights: Family-friendly, wildflowers, occasional wildlife sightings
Ideal for: Beginners, kids, and casual nature walkers

Looking for a short and easy walk? Possumhaw Trail is a gentle loop that’s perfect for families, beginners, and anyone wanting a relaxing nature walk. It’s one of the best trails for spotting wildflowers in the spring, and you might even see butterflies, rabbits, or songbirds along the way.

With minimal elevation change, this trail is accessible and enjoyable for all ages.

Hiking Tips for Cedar Ridge Preserve

To make the most of your hike, keep these essential tips in mind:

Best Time to Hike:

• Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
• Avoid midday heat, especially in summer.

What to Bring:

• Hiking shoes with good grip (some trails have rocky or uneven terrain).
• Plenty of water—there are no water fountains on the trails.
• Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
• Bug spray to keep mosquitoes and ticks away.

Trail Etiquette:

• Stay on marked paths to protect the environment.
• Respect nature—don’t pick plants or disturb wildlife.
• Pack out all trash to help keep the preserve clean.

Cedar Ridge Preserve is a must-visit for outdoor lovers, offering a mix of relaxing nature walks and heart-pumping hikes. Whether you’re here for the scenic views, exercise, or a peaceful retreat, these trails provide an unforgettable experience just minutes from Dallas.

Other Activities at Cedar Ridge Preserve

While hiking is the main attraction at Cedar Ridge Preserve, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy this 600-acre natural haven. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, or someone looking to give back through volunteering, the preserve offers a range of activities that connect visitors with nature.

Wildlife Watching & Birding

Cedar Ridge Preserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife and bird species, making it a great spot for nature observation and birdwatching. With its mix of forested areas, open meadows, and water sources, the preserve attracts a variety of animals throughout the year.

Common Wildlife Sightings

Keep your eyes peeled for:
🦌 White-tailed deer – Often spotted in the early morning or late afternoon.
🐾 Armadillos & rabbits – Frequently seen rustling through the underbrush.
🦎 Lizards & butterflies – Common along sunlit trails and wildflower areas.

Birdwatching Opportunities

With over 200 bird species recorded, Cedar Ridge Preserve is a prime location for birdwatching in North Texas. Some of the notable birds you might spot include:

• 🦅 Red-shouldered hawks soaring above the tree canopy.
• 🐦 Woodpeckers (such as the downy and red-bellied woodpecker) tapping on tree trunks.
• 🎨 Painted buntings (in spring and summer), known for their bright red, blue, and green plumage.

Best Birdwatching Spots

• Near the Cattail Pond – A great location to see water-loving birds like herons and ducks.
• Along shaded trails – Many smaller songbirds and woodpeckers are found in the wooded areas.
• Scenic overlooks – Hawks and other raptors often glide over open spaces, searching for prey.

Photography

If you love nature photography, Cedar Ridge Preserve offers countless picturesque spots throughout the year.

Best Spots for Scenic Shots

📍 Overlooks & hilltops – Capture breathtaking views of the rolling terrain.
🌸 Wildflower fields (spring & summer) – Ideal for colorful, close-up photography.
🌲 Forested trails – Perfect for capturing the beauty of sunlight filtering through the trees.

Sunrise & Sunset Photography Tips

• Sunrise: Arrive early to capture the golden morning light breaking through the trees. The overlook areas provide stunning sunrise shots.
• Sunset: The western-facing trails and hilltops offer the best vantage points for dramatic sunset hues over the landscape.

Picnicking

If you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax and enjoy a meal outdoors, Cedar Ridge Preserve has designated picnic areas near the entrance.

Picnic Guidelines for a Responsible Visit

✔ Pack out all trash – There are no trash bins, so bring a bag to take everything back with you.
✔ Respect nature – Keep food secure and avoid feeding wildlife.
✔ Keep noise levels down – Enjoy the natural sounds of the preserve without loud music or disturbances.

Volunteering & Educational Programs

Cedar Ridge Preserve isn’t just a place for recreation—it’s also a hub for conservation efforts. Managed by Audubon Dallas, the preserve offers ways for visitors to give back and support environmental preservation.

How to Get Involved

🌱 Volunteer Days: Help with trail maintenance, habitat restoration, and litter cleanup. These typically take place on Saturdays and are open to individuals and groups.
🦉 Educational Programs: Audubon Dallas hosts guided nature walks, birdwatching workshops, and conservation talks throughout the year.
🌿 Special Events: Seasonal events focus on native plant restoration, wildlife education, and community engagement.

For those passionate about nature, volunteering at Cedar Ridge Preserve is a great way to make a positive impact while learning more about local ecosystems.

Nearby Camping Options

While Cedar Ridge Preserve itself does not allow camping, there are several excellent campgrounds nearby for those looking to extend their outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV sites, or cabin stays, these locations offer a range of options with beautiful scenery and great amenities.

1. Cedar Hill State Park (15-Minute Drive)

Location: Cedar Hill, TX

Why Camp Here?

Lakeside Camping – Over 350 campsites with both tent and RV options.
Fishing & Boating – Direct access to Joe Pool Lake for swimming, fishing, and boating.
Trails for Exploration – Additional hiking and biking trails for adventure seekers.

Amenities

✔ Restrooms & Showers
✔ Picnic Tables & Fire Pits
✔ Water & Electric Hookups

Reservations: Required via the Texas Parks & Wildlife website.

2. Loyd Park at Joe Pool Lake (20-Minute Drive)

Location: Grand Prairie, TX

Why Camp Here?

Scenic Campsites – Tent and RV camping with beautiful lakefront views.
Water Activities – Perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
Cabin Rentals – Cozy cabins available for those preferring a more comfortable stay.

Amenities

✔ Restrooms & Showers
✔ Picnic Tables & Fire Rings
✔ Boat Ramp & Beach Area

Reservations: Available on the official Loyd Park website.

The Vineyards Campground & Cabins (40-Minute Drive)

Location: Grapevine, TX

Why Camp Here?

Relaxing Getaway – Peaceful setting along Grapevine Lake, with opportunities for wine tasting nearby.
Outdoor Fun – Fishing, boating, and swimming for a complete lakeside experience.
Luxury Camping – Choose from RV sites, tent camping, or fully equipped cabins.

Amenities

✔ Full Hookups & Camp Store
✔ Modern Showers & Restrooms
✔ Picnic Areas & Fire Pits

🔹 Reservations: Available online at The Vineyards Campground website.