The 4,871-acre park that had previously been ranch land, quietly opened March 1, 15 years after the land was purchased by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 2011.
“The Palo Pinto Mountains State Park is one of the most majestic of them all,” Gov. Greg Abbott said. “Preserving our lands is crucial. It allows communities to reconnect with the land that made Texas Texas. We are going to live up to our commitment to preserve our state parks so that future generations have access to the beauty of Texas that was originally seen by Sam Houston and Davy Crockett.”
Abbott attended the opening ceremony, which featured a ribbon cutting.
Palo Pinto Mountains State Park has 16 miles of trails along with a lake for fishing, boating and swimming. Campsites are also available for people looking to stay overnight in the park.
These campsites cost $12, $15 or $30 per night.
“It’s a shining day for the department and the state of Texas as we officially commemorate the opening of Palo Pinto Mountains State Park,” said David Yoskowitz, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department executive director. “We could not be more grateful for the support from numerous partners and the Texas Legislature in their commitment to bringing these special places to the people of Texas. This park is truly a jewel, and we are excited to see visitors traversing the trails, fishing from the pier, and experience this special slice of North Texas.”