Trails Information
Explore a hidden oasis developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
- Golden-cheeked warbler
Discover the rich history and natural beauty of this quiet oasis, where Prairie and Hill Country meet. Explore the park from over 5 miles of hiking trails. Choose from a scenic loop around the lake, or shorter, rugged trails through wildlife habitat.
Trails
All trails are hiking only.
This list may not include all the trails in the park.
| Trail | Distance (one-way) | Difficulty | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosque Hiking Trail | 2.2 mi. | Challenging | Hike the perimeter of Lake Meridian on this arduous trail. See the Civilian Conservation Corps dam up close and take a break at scenic Bee Ledge lookout point. |
| Shinnery Ridge Trail | 1.5 mi. | Moderate | Enjoy this family-friendly loop trail. In the summer, look for golden-cheeked warblers. Part of the trail is paved and accessible. |
| Little Forest Junior Trail | 0.8 mi. | Easy | Explore this short, rocky trail at your own pace. In springtime, pause where this trail crosses the park road and enjoy blooming wildflowers like bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush and firewheels. |
| Little Springs Trail | 0.7 mi. | Moderate | Watch for wildlife as you hike this short but rugged trail. |
Points of Interest
GPS coordinates shown in decimal degrees.
| Point | Latitude | Longitude | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civilian Conservation Corps Refectory | 31.8887° | -97.6995° | The Refectory was handcrafted of local limestone between 1933 and 1935. Take your time; admire the detailed stonework of this rustic building. |
| CCC Stone Grill | 31.8862° | -97.7032° | Imagine enjoying a cozy cookout here! Please barbecue in a modern fire ring; save this one for future visitors to admire. |
| Bee Ledge | 31.8924° | -97.7026° | Watch your step as you take in the view of Lake Meridian from this natural overlook. |
| Fern Ledge | 31.8924° | -97.7018° | Look, but don't leap! Ferns grow naturally on this limestone ledge; please leave them undisturbed. |
| Wildflower Field | 31.8922° | -97.7011° | Wildflowers like bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush and firewheels bloom here in the spring, blanketing the ground with a rainbow of colors. |
| CCC Bridge | 31.8912° | -97.6993° | This rustic stone bridge still has its original 1934 timbers. |
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 ride to your skill level. Wear a helmet to protect yourself in case of a crash.
- Wear a life jacket. The law requires that all children under age 13 wear one with adult supervision while boating.
- Potentially harmful plants and animals live here. You’ll see them more easily if you stay on trails.
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.
- Campfires are permitted only in designated rings and not in the primitive camping area due to potential for ground scarring and wildfires.
