Gathering Place

Come to the shady banks of Elm Creek, where large trees arch overhead and deer and other critters wander by. Just 16 miles southwest of Abilene, the park has a lake and fishing pond, a historic swimming pool, trails, camping and more.

Things to Do

On land, you can camp, hike, geocache, bird watch, and ride bikes or horses. Along with many picnic sites under the trees, the park has a sand volleyball court, horseshoe pit and large open area. Explore our nature trails, including the 0.2-mile ADA-compliant Camping Loop Connecting Trail. 

On water, you can swim, fish and boat. The swimming pool is open each summer.

Host your next group gathering here. We have two group recreation halls. One is perfect for RV groups, as 35 campsites surround the hall.

Stay

Camp at a tent or RV site, or in a screened shelter. For a bit of adventure, stay in one of our yurts.

Swim

Cool off in our historic swimming pool, built in the early 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Or swim in the lake, at your own risk. Read our swimming safety tips before you visit. 

Fish

Drop a line in Lake Abilene or Buffalo Wallow Pond. The pond is a favorite spot for kids of all ages. Remember, you do not need a license to fish from shore in a state park.

Boat

Rent a canoe or kayak at a vending machine near the lake. Lake Abilene is a no-wake lake, and boat motors may not exceed idle speed. Review our water safety tips before you head out.

Ride horses

We have over five miles of horse trails on the lake side of the highway; however you must check in at headquarters and present proof of negative Coggins for your horses. Parking for horse trailers is in the lake day-use area or next to the restroom. Horse trails are marked on our trails map.

Shop

Shop for gifts and souvenirs at the park's store.

Get involved

We need your help! Visit our Volunteer page or check at park headquarters.

Support state parks by donating to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation.

Ranger Programs

Our rangers lead a variety of programs, at the park and off-site. We give nature trail tours on request.

• Check the Events page for upcoming programs.
• Download the Interpretive Guide to Abilene State Park | PDF.
• Learn more about the park on our Nature and History pages.

Kids

Become a Junior Ranger!

• Pick up a free Junior Ranger Activity Journal at headquarters. Complete tasks to earn a badge.
• Borrow a Junior Ranger Explorer Pack, loaded with tools for exploring the park.

Civilian Conservation Corps

The CCC built many features of Abilene State Park, including the swimming pool and stone water tower. Learn more about the CCC’s work on our CCC page, The Look of Nature.

Area Attractions

Visit Abilene to explore museums and art galleries, and enjoy dining and shopping.

Check out the Texas Historical Commission’s Texas Forts Trail website for more ideas.