Located almost in the middle of the state of Texas, Lake Brownwood State Park is near the town of Brownwood and is a perfect summer destination to enjoy the great outdoors. The population of the town is just under 20,000 people, but this is where locals like to go in the summertime to hang out by the water and trek the trails. The area is also known for some great fishing, with large bodies of water nearby that feed into the lake. If you’re into fishing, camping, and outdoor recreation, heading to this place is a great option. Here is a guide to Lake Brownwood State Park.
Things to do
Hike the trails
Lake Brownwood State Park has over 530 acres (215 hectares) of land that is open to the public. The park was founded and built in the 1930s as part of the Civilian Conservation Corps as a means of getting people to find work during the Great Depression. The park was finalized and opened in the 1940s, and since then, it has been a place where many of the locals come to enjoy nature and relax by the lake. There are over 6 miles (9.5 km) of hiking trails available, with plenty of benches and rest stops along the way. Most of the trails located here are meant for hiking, but Nopales Ridge Trail is open for biking as well. Pack your gear and hike along the trails and take in the scenic views and stop by the historic pavilions.
Hang out or go fishing on the lake
As any Texan will tell you, it can get pretty hot in the Lone Star State, so why not cool off during the hot and humid summer months with a trip to the lake? Lake Brownwood State Park sits on the shores of Lake Brownwood. The lake is a great place for swimming or taking the jet-ski for a spin around the water. For the fishermen out there, you’re in luck, because this lake has some of the best fishing in the area, with several varieties of bass and catfish populating the water.
Go camping
Whether you’re into regular camping or glamping, Lake Brownwood State Park has you covered. There is a range of campsites available at the park, some with more amenities than others. Campsites and campers have the option to select sites with running water or with both water and electricity. For those not looking forward to pitching a tent and would rather have something a little more modern, there are cabins and lodges here as well. Cabins can hold anywhere from two to four people, while some lodges can accommodate up to 26. Wake up in the morning and take in the stunning view of the lake while you listen to the morning birds sing.
Go geocaching or bird watching
Lake Brownwood State Park is an excellent place for those who are into geocaching. For those unfamiliar with the activity, it is a little bit like hide and seek but with a GPS. Users place a hidden container somewhere and it is up to you to find it using the tools at your disposal. Search the tree and rocks and use your wits and GPS to find something neat or even leave something for others to find. There’s plenty of options for geocaches. You can also opt to go bird watching or check out the local flora if finding hidden treasures isn’t your thing.
Travelers tips
Seasonal highlights
The park often hosts various events depending on the time of the year. Things like Christmas celebrations and guided night hikes are common around here, so make sure to check online for upcoming events that may interest you so you don’t miss out during your visit.
Accessibility
Several areas of the park are wheelchair-accessible, including the fishing pier, fishing platform, and Willow Point Campsite.
How to get there
By car
If you’re planning to go to Lake Brownwood State Park, heading here by car is the best option. The park is located about 16 miles (25 kilometers) northwest of the town of Brownwood, so if you’re heading to the park from there, driving or hiring a car is the way to go. Take Texas State Highway 279 all the way to Park Road No. 15 and then follow the road east for 15 miles (24 kilometers).
How to book tickets
People looking to spend some time at the park get their hands on a variety of park passes when they arrive at the park or buy a Texas State Park Pass online. The standard price for entrance to this park is 5 USD for adults, whereas children under the age of 12 can get in for free. There are several “passports” available, including options for Texas veterans, seniors, and disabled guests. You can check here if you qualify for any of the passports to avail of the discounts or to see other types of park passes.
Lake Brownwood State Park information
Lake Brownwood State Park
Address: 200 State Highway Park Road 15. Lake Brownwood, TX 76801
Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)
Cost: 5 USD
Official website: Lake Brownwood State Park
Department of toursim: Travel Texas
History
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