Lake Tawakoni State Park Map, Hours, Camping, Cabins, Fishing and Hiking Trails
Nestled in the heart of East Texas, Lake Tawakoni State Park offers a tranquil escape with its lush landscapes and diverse recreational opportunities. Whether you’re planning a serene weekend of camping, looking to reel in a big catch, or eager to explore scenic hiking trails, this gem has something for everyone.
Our comprehensive guide provides all the essential information, including maps, park hours, cabin details, fishing tips, and trail descriptions. Prepare to uncover the natural beauty and adventure that Lake Tawakoni State Park has to offer, making your visit both memorable and enjoyable.
Consider reading: 12 Best Lakes in Dallas Fort Worth Texas
Lake Tawakoni State Park Map, Hours, and Price
When planning a visit to Lake Tawakoni State Park, knowing the hours of operation and entrance fees is essential. Here’s a breakdown to help you make the most of your trip:
| Park Name | Lake Tawakoni State Park |
| Days of Operation | Seven days a week |
| Operating Hours | 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM |
| Park Office Hours | 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM |
| Entry Fee (Day Use) | $5 per person |
| Entry Fee (Children 12 and under) | Free |
| Annual Park Pass Fee | $70 |
| Benefits of Annual Pass | Unlimited entry to all Texas state parks |
Use the Lake Tawakoni State Park Map and Lake Tawakoni State Park Trail Map while you are at the park for easier navigation.
Lake Tawakoni State Park Camping
When it comes to experiencing Lake Tawakoni State Park fully, camping is an ideal way to immerse ourselves in nature. Here are some key points to consider for camping at the park:
| Type of Campsite | Number of Sites | People per Site | Nightly Rate | Monthly Rate (Non-peak) | Additional Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Hookup Campsites (30/50 amp) | 16 | 8 | $24 | $623 | Daily entrance fee, $3 overflow parking per vehicle/night |
| Campsites with Electricity (30/50 amp) | 16 | 8 | $22 | – | Daily entrance fee, $3 overflow parking per vehicle/night |
| Campsites with Electricity (30 amp) | 44 | 8 | $20 | – | Daily entrance fee, $3 overflow parking per vehicle/night |
| Campsites with Electricity (Accessible) | 2 | 8 | $24 | – | Daily entrance fee, $3 overflow parking per vehicle/night |
| Group Camp | 1 | 48 | $42 | – | Daily entrance fee |
Consider reading: 10 Best Places for Camping Near Dallas Texas
Lake Tawakoni State Park Trails
When visiting Lake Tawakoni State Park, exploring the trails is a must to truly immerse ourselves in the park’s natural beauty.
Here are the details of Lake Tawakoni State Park Trails:
| Trail Name | Distance | Time | Difficulty | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FARKLEBERRY Trail | 0.5 mi. | 15 min. | Easy | This short trail connects three different trails. Turn right at the crossing to join the Osage Orange Trail, or turn left for a longer hike down the Blackjack Trail. |
| Osage Orange Trail | 0.8 mi. | 20 min. | Easy | Named for the fruit of the Osage orange or bois d’arc tree, this trail joins Red Oak Trail and returns to the crossing. The Osage orange is a green/yellow, hard, bumpy fruit about the size of a softball. It is an important food source for wildlife in late summer and early fall. |
| Red Oak Trail | 0.4 mi. | 15 min. | Easy | This tree-lined trail follows the Lake Tawakoni shoreline. You may observe wildlife among the changing habitats along this trail. |
| Blackjack Trail | 1.5 mi. | 2 hrs. | Moderate | This trail is named for the blackjack oak trees which have grown here for over 50 years. This long trail will bring you back to the crossing. |
| Spring Point Branch Trail | 0.1 mi. | 5 min. | Easy | Spring Point Branch is a short, pleasant trail through an East Texas hardwood forest. Turn around at the T or continue on to the Spring Point Trail. |
| Spring Point Trail | 0.4 mi. | 45 min. | Moderate | Discover a birders paradise along this trail – beneath the trees, in a pocket prairie, or out on the beach. |
| Spring Point East Trail | 0.4 mi. | 20 min. | Easy | Take this short looped trail out on the point to enjoy a glimpse of the lake. |
| White Deer Trail | 0.4 mi. | 45 min. | Easy | Just out of camper’s view, this nature trail may provide some unexpected wildlife viewing opportunities. |
Exploring the trails at Lake Tawakoni State Park offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories during our visit.
What to Expect at Lake Tawakoni State Park
When visiting Lake Tawakoni State Park, diverse outdoor experiences await you.
Here’s what you can expect during your visit:
- Nature Immersion: Surround yourself with the beauty of nature as you explore the park’s serene trails and lush landscapes.
- Wildlife Encounters: Keep an eye out for a variety of bird species and other wildlife that call the park home, offering memorable viewing opportunities.
- Water Activities: Enjoy a range of water-based activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming in the refreshing waters of Lake Tawakoni.
- Picnic Areas: Relax and unwind at the park’s well-equipped picnic areas, perfect for a family gathering or a peaceful meal amidst nature.
- Outdoor Recreation: Engage in activities like hiking, biking, and geocaching, catering to outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.
- Stargazing: As the sun sets, marvel at the starry skies above the park, providing a magical end to your day of exploration.
Explore Lake Tawakoni State Park and discover a haven of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and unforgettable experiences.
How to Reach Lake Tawakoni State Park
- The park is located at 10822 FM 2475, Wills Point, TX 75169.
- If driving from Dallas, take I-30 East, then head onto TX-276 East towards Wills Point.
- Visitors coming from other cities in Texas can use Google Maps for the best route.
| City | Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Dallas | 1 hour |
| Fort Worth | 1.5 hours |
| Houston | 3.5 hours |
| Austin | 4 hours |
Things to do at Lake Tawakoni State Park
At Lake Tawakoni State Park, outdoor enthusiasts can jump into a plethora of activities that cater to various interests. Here are some of the exciting things you can look forward to:
- Fishing: Cast your line into the waters of Lake Tawakoni, known for its abundance of catfish and striped bass.
- Boating: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride or engage in watersports on the expansive lake.
- Hiking: Explore the park’s scenic trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes that offer stunning views.
- Birdwatching: Witness the diverse bird species that call the park home as you immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.
- Picnicking: Relax and unwind at the well-equipped picnic areas nestled amidst nature’s beauty.
- Geocaching: Begin on a modern-day treasure hunt and uncover hidden gems throughout the park.
- Stargazing: Cap off your day by gazing at the mesmerizing night sky, free from light pollution.
We’ve curated a range of activities to ensure that your visit to Lake Tawakoni State Park is filled with adventure and relaxation.
Best Time to Visit Lake Tawakoni State Park
When planning a visit to Lake Tawakoni State Park, timing is key to make the most of your outdoor adventure. The best time to explore this natural gem is during spring. Here’s why:
Spring offers pleasant weather with mild temperatures ideal for hiking, picnicking, and fishing. Wildflowers bloom, adding vibrant colors to the park’s world, creating stunning photo opportunities. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be delighted by the diverse bird species migrating through the park during this season.
Fall is another excellent time to visit, with cooler temperatures and the park adorned in beautiful autumn hues. Plan your visit on weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends can get busier with more visitors.
Consider reading: 14 Best State Parks Near Dallas and Fort Worth TX
Final Thoughts on Lake Tawakoni State Park
Visiting Lake Tawakoni State Park during spring and fall offers the best experiences with pleasant weather, blooming wildflowers, diverse bird species, cooler temperatures, and vibrant autumn colors. Opting for weekday visits ensures a quieter ambiance to fully immerse ourselves in the park’s natural beauty and engaging activities. Plan your trip wisely to make the most of what this stunning park has to offer throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lake Tawakoni known for?
Lake Tawakoni, often referred to as “The Catfish Capital of Texas,” is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. Covering a vast area of 37,000 surface acres, the lake attracts anglers seeking catfish, largemouth bass, crappie, white bass, striped bass, and hybrid bass.
Is Lake Tawakoni safe to swim in?
Yes, swimming is permitted at Lake Tawakoni. The lake features Lake Tawakoni State Park, which offers a large swim beach with picnic tables in a designated boat-free zone. Additionally, visitors can access 5 miles of shoreline for swimming activities.
How much does it cost to go to Tawakoni State Park?
The day-use fee for Lake Tawakoni State Park is $5 per day, applicable to individuals aged 13 and older.
What animals are in Lake Tawakoni?
Lake Tawakoni and its surrounding areas are home to a variety of wildlife species. Along the shoreline, visitors can observe egrets, herons, American white pelicans, and Belted Kingfishers. In the woodlands, common sightings include Orchard Orioles, Barred Owls, Great Horned Owls, Yellow-billed Cuckoos, Eastern Kingbirds, and various woodpecker species.
Is it better to visit Lake Tawakoni on weekdays or weekends?
Weekday visits are suggested for a quieter experience at Lake Tawakoni State Park compared to busier weekends, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the park’s tranquility and offerings.
