Things to Do

Activities include camping, backpacking, hiking, horseback riding on approximately 15 miles of day-use equestrian trails, nature study, bird watching, boating on a 2,400-acre lake, water skiing, jet skiing, fishing, and lake swimming in a large, buoyed sandy area. Take a virtual tour with our interactive trails map. 

Note: Equestrians are only allowed to use the Big Brown Primitive Camping Trail until they reach the bridge. Riders are not allowed to cross the bridge until it is replaced. We apologize for any inconvenience. 

In addition to campsites for tents and RVs, the park also has group facilities. 

Fishing

Fairfield Lake is warmed by the TXU Big Brown power plant. Because of the warm water, people come from all over Texas to enjoy fantastic winter fishing opportunities. From November through February, tournaments are held every weekend. Fishing clubs from the Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Waco, Austin and Tyler areas host tournaments here.

Why drive all the way to the Texas Gulf Coast to enjoy fishing for red drum? Fairfield Lake is stocked with red drum (aka redfish)! The state record holder for inland red drum was taken here at Fairfield Lake (44 inches, 36.83 lbs).

• Detailed fishing and lake information for Fairfield Lake
• Swimming Safety Tips

Ranger Programs

The park offers a variety of educational opportunities. Check the calendar for upcoming events or contact the park for special tours.

Ask about the Junior Ranger Explorer Packs available for free checkout at the park!

Area Attractions

Nearby points of interest include Texas State Railroad; Fort Parker State Park; Old Fort Parker (operated by the city of Groesbeck) and Confederate Reunion Grounds State Historic Site; and the cities of Rusk, Palestine and Fairfield (where the Freestone County Museum in the century-old jail is located). While you are in the area, visit the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens, a unique TPWD facility showcasing aquatic life and sportfishing in Texas.