Trails Information
A Legacy in Limestone
- Scissor-tailed flycatcher
Welcome to Lake Brownwood State Park, one of the most extensively developed Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) parks in Texas. Enjoy the handiwork of the CCC men who constructed the rustic limestone cabins, and the outdoor seating areas you’ll find along the trails.
Trails
All trails hiking and biking unless otherwise indicated.
This list may not include all trails in the park.
| Trail | Distance | Time | Difficulty | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas Oak Trail | 1.4 mi. | 45 min. | Moderate | You’ll find at least three kinds of Texas oaks along this trail. In addition to the Texas red oak, you’ll also see post oaks and live oaks. |
| Opossum Loop | .3 mi. | 30 min. | Easy | Watching for wildlife? Look for opossums, white-tailed deer and wild turkeys along the trail. |
| Council Bluff Trail | .3 mi. | 30 min. | Moderate | Climb the stone steps along the trail and enjoy the view from the bluffs overlooking the lake. |
| Lakeside Trail | .7 mi. | 45 min. | Moderate | Enjoy the legacy of the CCC as you hike this historic trail connecting the campground and cabins to the day-use area. Rest at the “outdoor living rooms,” unique rustic limestone tables and benches that provide awesome views of Lake Brownwood. |
| Pump House Trail | .02 mi. | 10 min. | Moderate | Take this short spur trail to see the original stone pump house built by the CCC enrollees to provide water for the park. |
| Nopales Ridge Trail | 2.9 mi. | 2.5 hrs. | Moderate | Watch out for the sharp spines on the prickly pear (nopal) cacti as you bike or hike this trail. You’ll also find twisted-leaf yuccas; the scientific name means “lover of rock.” |
Points of Interest
GPS coordinates shown in decimal degrees.
| Point | Latitude | Longitude | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCC and 36th Division Memorial Monuments | 31.8592° | -99.0180° | Take a moment to honor the Civilian Conservation Corps that built the park, and the valiant 36th Army Infantry Division that gave its name to the park from 1946-1956. |
| CCC Grand Stairway | 31.8591° | -99.0172° | After enjoying the view from the pavilion, take the terraced stone stairway down to the lake. |
| CCC Picnic Site | 31.8562° | -99.0156° | Enjoy the view from the natural stone benches and tables along the lakeshore. |
| CCC Water Pumphouse | 31.8574° | -99.0160° | See the original water works for the park! |
| Council Bluff Pavilion and Overlook | 31.8590° | -99.0296° | Enjoy a scenic view of the lake from a charming rock pavilion. |
| Texas Oak Trail Overlook | 31.8593° | -99.0368° | View the lake from a rugged outcrop of limestone boulders. |
| Limestone Boulders | 31.8591° | -99.0323° | Look for small lichens and ferns growing in the limestone cracks. |
Staying Safe
- Know your limits. Prepare for sun and heat. Wear sunscreen, insect repellent and appropriate clothing/hiking shoes.
- Drink plenty of water. Your body quickly loses fluids when you’re on the trail. Bring a quart of water per hour of activity.
- Tell others where you’ll be. If possible, avoid exploring alone. Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return.
- Wear a helmet when biking. Check with park HQ to match the trail to your skill level. Wear a helmet to protect yourself in case of a crash.
- Potentially harmful plants and animals may live here. You’ll see them more easily if you stay on the trails. Do not approach wildlife!
- You may not be able to connect. It’s a good idea to take along a cell phone and GPS unit, but don’t count on them.
Trail Etiquette
- Trash your trash. Keep the park natural. Pack out all of your trash and Leave No Trace.
- Leave feeding to nature. Feeding wild animals will make them sick and more likely to harm people.
- Take only memories and pictures. Please don’t disturb or remove any of the park’s plants, animals or artifacts.
- Keep pets on leashes for their safety, and to protect wildlife.
