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Burn Ban

Jan. 1, 2026 - The park is under a burn ban. No wood or charcoal fires are allowed. You may cook with containerized fuel stoves.

Park Closures

Lake Abilene Closures

Oct. 20, 2025 - Due to the lake's low level:

• Boat ramps are closed;
• Kayak rentals are not available;
• Swimming and fishing are not allowed.

Contact the park or check back for updates.

Park Closed

May 1, 2025 - The park is closed for development. Opening date has not been set. Check back for updates.

Icy Roads

Jan. 30, 2026 - The park is open, but some roads remain closed due to icy conditions.

Check back for updates. 

Park Closure

The park will be closed from April 27 - May 1, 2026 for our annual pool cleaning. The park will reopen Saturday, May 2, 2026.

Reservations Recommended

Jan. 1, 2024 - We strongly encourage you to purchase day passes in advance for the summer months, weekends, school breaks and holidays. Day passes often sell out throughout the summer.

Online reservations for overnight stays close at 4:30 p.m. 

Check back for updates.

Park Closures

Trail and camping access in the interior and Sauceda will be closed on the dates below. Fort Leaton and Barton Warnock Visitor Center will remain open, as will river camping and certain trails along the corridor. Please call Fort Leaton (432) 229-3613 or Barton Warnock Visitor Center  (432) 242-3327 for clarification on closures if needed.

• 5 p.m. March 31 to 8 a.m. April 9, 2026

Sauceda Ranger Station

Sauceda Ranger Station hours vary and limited services are available. Shower and restrooms are available 24/7.

• Check in for camping and day passes at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.
• Call either of these sites or email us with questions.
• Souvenirs and concessions are only available at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.

Check back for updates. 

Burn Ban

Jan. 8, 2026 - The park is under a burn ban. No wood or charcoal fires are allowed. You may cook with containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane). 

Construction Closures

Jan. 13, 2026 - Some areas will be closed in coming weeks due to construction.

• Beginning Jan. 26, the north and west sides of Lake Mina and portions of the Lake Mina Loop will be closed for bridge construction for 12 weeks.
• Beginning Feb. 9, the east parking lot for the Tree Army Trails and portions of the Stone Mason Course will be closed for putting green construction for six weeks.

Lake Closure

March 1, 2025 - The main lake remains closed to allow plants to re-establish after construction. Fishing is available at Lake Mina. 

Check here for updates or contact the park for more information.

Park Closures

Trail and camping access in the interior and Sauceda will be closed on the dates below. Fort Leaton and Barton Warnock Visitor Center will remain open, as will river camping and certain trails along the corridor. Please call Fort Leaton (432) 229-3613 or Barton Warnock Visitor Center  (432) 242-3327 for clarification on closures if needed.

• 5 p.m. March 31 to 8 a.m. April 9, 2026

Sauceda Ranger Station

Sauceda Ranger Station hours vary and limited services are available. Shower and restrooms are available 24/7.

• Check in for camping and day passes at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.
• Call either of these sites or email us with questions.
• Souvenirs and concessions are only available at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.

Check back for updates. 

Water Outage

Jan. 30, 2026 - The park is open, but no water is available and the CCC restrooms are closed.

Burn Ban

June 24, 2024 - No wood or charcoal fires are allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane) for cooking.

Water Contaminant Notice

May 16, 2025 - The park uses water provided by the City of Big Spring. The city has issued a notice that its water exceeds 'Maximum Containment Level' of trihalomethanes. Learn more about this contaminant on the city's website. 

Check back for updates.

Winter Weather Notice

Feb. 1, 2026 - The park is open, but please drive with caution due to icy patches. Trails are closed due to unsafe conditions.

Traffic Pattern Update

Nov. 24, 2025 - The park now has a new, one-way traffic pattern in place. Observe traffic signs for your safety. 

Hydrilla Alert

Sept. 1, 2025 - The lake is infested with hydrilla, an invasive plant that creates large mats of vegetation across the surface of the water. We are working on controlling and removing the hydrilla, but it can affect swimming, fishing and boating. 

Please remember to always clean, drain and dry your boat!

Check back for updates or contact the park for more information. 

Phone Outage

Feb. 1, 2026 - Phones are down for maintenance. Please email the park with questions. 

Trail Maintenance

Creekfield Trail will be undergoing maintenance Jan. 19-30, 2026. Watch for periodic closures.

Check back for updates.

Burn Ban

Jan. 8, 2026 - The park is under a burn ban. No wood or charcoal fires are allowed. You may cook with containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane). 

Check back for updates.

Water Quality Advisory

Oct. 21, 2025 - The park has detected higher than normal nitrate levels in its water system. Infants under 6 months, pregnant women, and people with specific health concerns should plan on bringing water when visiting the park. 

Note: Boiling water does not remove nitrates. 

Check back for updates.

Visiting the Park

• We recommend reserving day passes for weekends and holidays. If your plans change, please modify or cancel your reservation so someone else can visit.
• Trails close for wet weather and maintenance. Call the park or check our Facebook page for updates before visiting.
• Argentine ants have been identified in some of our campsites. These invasive ants do not sting. Be prepared to treat around your vehicle and camping equipment. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is working to reduce the number of ants without harming the park's natural resources.

Check back for updates.

Boating Notices

June 25, 2025 - Due to very low lake levels:

• Exercise extra caution when operating watercraft on the lake. We recommend only using kayaks or bank fishing.
• The following boat ramps are closed:
  • South Shore
  • Hwy. 99
  • Mason Point
  • Calliham

Check back for updates or contact the park for more information.

Lane Closure

Jan. 8, 2026 - A 0.5-mile section of the main road is reduced to one lane past the Windmill Trailhead. Please follow all posted signage, barricades and directions for your safety.

Carry Water When Hiking

Nov. 24, 2025 - Carry plenty of water for you, your family and your pets when hiking. Experts recommend one liter of water per person per hour of activity, no matter the temperature. Many of our trails are rocky and unshaded.

Water spigots are available in the campground. 

Reservations Recommended

We highly recommend making day pass or camping reservations before visiting. Reserve online or by calling 512) 389-8900 to guarantee entry.

Contact the park for more information.

Restroom Closure

Jan. 29, 2026 - Honey Creek Restroom is closed due to electrical issues. The Honey Creek fish cleaning station is open but does not have electricity.

Low Lake Level

Sept. 11, 2025 - The Honey Creek boat ramp at the South Sulphur unit is closed due to the low lake level. The boat ramps at South Sulphur in Gulls Bluff, Tira Satellite boat ramp, and Doctors Creek at Lone Pine remain open.

Facility Closures

Jan. 23, 2025 - The Sunset Cove Day-use Area is closed through late spring 2026. Construction will be underway on a replacement fishing pier and other upgrades.

May 10, 2024 - The floating dock in the Heron Harbor Day-use Area at the South Sulphur Unit is closed due to damage. Fishing access from the wall is still open.

Trail Alert

Trails close to horseback riders after rainfall. Check conditions before you come by calling the park. 

Check back for updates.

Winter Weather Alert

Jan. 28, 2026 - The park is fully open, but water remains shut off due to freezing temperatures. Running water is available at the headquarters restrooms during normal office hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).

Expect icy patches in shaded areas and on hilly roads. Please drive cautiously in the park.

Burn Ban

Nov. 11, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No wood or charcoal fires are allowed. You may cook with containerized fuel stoves.

Drought Notice

July 18, 2025 - This area is under Stage 4 water restrictions. Please use water wisely when you visit. Consider bringing water with you. 

Closures

Sept. 9, 2025 - The boat ramp and fishing pier are closed due to low lake level.

Check back for updates.

Burn Ban

March 1, 2025 - No wood fires are allowed. However, charcoal and containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane) are allowed for cooking. 

Closures

July 30, 2025 - A portion of Skyline Drive Trail, the Scenic Overlook and its parking lot are closed for repairs. 

Limpia Canyon area will be closed for wildlife management activities on the following dates. Only hunters with drawn permits will be allowed in:

• 6 a.m. Feb. 20 to 6 a.m. Feb. 25

Please observe closures for your safety.

Check here for updates or contact the park for more information.

No Potable Water

Aug. 9, 2025 - Potable (drinkable) water is not available at the Dan Hughes Unit of the park. Bring water for drinking and cooking for your entire group when you visit. 

Burn Ban

Jan. 1, 2025 - No wood fires allowed. However, charcoal, compressed fire logs and containerized fuels (i.e. propane) are allowed at all drive-up campsites.

Paddler Notices

Jan. 23, 2025 - The Baker's Crossing launch is closed due to low flow levels in Devils River. The San Pedro Point launch is still open.

Contact the park or check back for updates.

Park Closures

The park will be closed on the following dates:

• 5 p.m. March 19 to 5 p.m. March 22, 2026
• 5 p.m. April 16 to 5 p.m. April 19, 2026

Only permitted hunters will be allowed in on these dates.

Contact the park for more information.

Trails & Tracks

Check for updates.

Reservations Recommended

We often reach capacity and highly recommend reservations for both camping and day use. Reserve passes online or by calling the customer service center before you visit.

Check back for updates.

Facility Closures

Aug. 3, 2025 – Swim beach and Fossil Ridge fishing pier are closed.

Feb. 18, 2025 - The restrooms and the dump station in the Armadillo Hill camping loop are closed due to utility work. Restrooms are available in other areas.

Call the park or check back here for updates.

Water Outage

Jan. 29, 2026 - Water is shut off in the day-use and campground areas due to a major leak. The shower building and day use area are closed, but portable restrooms are available. Please bring enough drinking and cooking water for your visit, however potable water is available near park headquarters.

Park Closures

The park will be closed on the following dates for wildlife management activities:

• 12:30 p.m. Jan. 26 to 1:30 p.m. Jan. 30, 2026

Only hunters with permits will be allowed in during these times.

Conserve Water

Please use water wisely when you visit. Bring your own drinking water or you can buy bottled water at headquarters.

Reservations Required

Advanced reservations for day passes and overnight stays are required on weekends, school breaks and holidays. While not required on regular weekdays, we usually reach capacity every day. Guarantee your entry by reserving passes online or calling the customer service center before you visit.

Trail Closures

Get trail status updates here or on our Facebook page.

Check back for updates.

Boat Ramp Closure

July 3, 2025 - The boat ramp is closed due to the lake's low level. You can launch boats from shore.

Phone Issues

Jan. 15, 2026 - Our main phone line is experiencing issues. Please contact the park at (956) 848-5780.

Check back for updates.

Park Closures

Trail and camping access in the interior and Sauceda will be closed on the dates below. Fort Leaton and Barton Warnock Visitor Center will remain open, as will river camping and certain trails along the corridor. Please call Fort Leaton (432) 229-3613 or Barton Warnock Visitor Center  (432) 242-3327 for clarification on closures if needed.

• 5 p.m. March 31 to 8 a.m. April 9, 2026

Sauceda Ranger Station

Sauceda Ranger Station hours vary and limited services are available. Shower and restrooms are available 24/7.

• Check in for camping and day passes at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.
• Call either of these sites or email us with questions.
• Souvenirs and concessions are only available at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.

Check back for updates. 

Construction Alert

Sept. 2, 2025 - Expect construction noise in the day-use, screen shelter and cabin areas and the water and electric camping loop. Nature Center renovations are expected to last through September 2026. Contact the park for details.

Fishing Piers Closed

Jan. 7, 2025 - Both fishing piers are closed.

Check back for updates.

Reservations Recommended

Reservations are recommended (even for those with park passes). Reserve online or call the Customer Service Center before you visit. Spanish-speaking agents are available at the CSC. Carry your pass (either a printed or digital version) with you while in the park.

Trail Closures

Jan. 19, 2026 - Some boardwalks are closed due to flood damage. Please observe closure signs for your safety.

Check back for updates.

Playscape Closure

Jan. 21, 2026 - The playscape may be closed for repairs in February.

Construction Notice

Aug. 22, 2025 - Work is underway on the road at the scenic overlook leading to Old Garner. Traffic is reduced to one lane, and hiking and biking are not allowed. Please proceed with caution, expect minor delays, and follow all posted signage.

Trails in this area are closed, including parts of the Madrone Trail, Blinn River Trail, and the lower portion of the CCC Entrance Road Trail.

Check back for updates; contact the park for more information.

Construction Alert

Jan. 27, 2026 - We are improving some of our campsites. Expect intermittent closures for sites 1 - 24 and intermittent water disruptions during the upgrade. Maintenance equipment will be present on the east end of the island.

Jan. 27, 2026 - Habitat restoration and marsh wetlands construction will begin in June 2026. This project will not affect campsites but expect maintenance equipment on the west end of the Island.

Noise Alert

Nov. 14, 2025 - Please expect an increase in airboat activity due to duck hunting season. 

Water Conservation Alert

Nov. 14, 2025 - Please use water sparingly for drinking, cooking, and in restrooms. Bring your own water or buy bottled water at headquarters.

Check back for updates.

Trails Updates

Check for trail closure updates.

Check back for updates.

Winter Weather Notice

Jan. 30, 2026 - Water spigots throughout the park are dripping for freeze protection - please do not turn them off.

Burn Ban

Aug. 15, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No ash-producing fires (wood or charcoal) are allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves for cooking.

Conserve Water

Dec. 1, 2024 - Due to ongoing drought conditions, please use water wisely when you visit.

Check back for updates.

Trail Updates

Trails may close in wet weather. Check for updates before visiting. 

Check back for updates. 

Water Shortage

Nov. 7, 2024 - Water conservation measures are in place due to drought. Please bring enough water for your visit. Water is available at the campsites. Public restrooms and campground showers are available.

Due to water shortages, campsite availability is limited. Reservations are recommended; call (512) 389-8911.

Check back for updates.

Reservations Recommended

We strongly encourage you to make reservations in advance for weekends, school breaks and holidays. Day passes and camping sell out every weekend and holiday.

Check back for updates.

Burn Ban

Jan. 15, 2026 - The park is under a burn ban. Wood fires are not allowed. You may cook with charcoal or containerized fuel stoves.

Park Information

The park is open from 8 a.m. Fridays through 4:30 p.m. Mondays. It is closed the rest of the week.

We do not have trash service. You must take your trash when you leave.

Check back for updates.

Burn Ban

Dec. 24, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No open, ash-producing fires allowed. You can cook with containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane).

Check back for updates.

Facility Closures

Aug. 18, 2025 - The Rec Hall, group lodges, cabins and Lakeside Trail are closed for renovations. Renovations are expected to take about 18 months. Watch for road closures and follow signs for your safety.

Check back for updates to these alerts.

Low Lake Level

Aug. 28, 2025 - The courtesy dock is closed due to the low lake level, but the concrete boat ramps remain open. Please use caution when launching or removing watercraft at the boat ramp. You may also launch from the shoreline.

Contact the park or check back for updates.

Water Outage

Jan. 22, 2026 - Water is out in the park due to repairs.

Headquarters Closure

Jan. 1, 2026 - Headquarters is closed every Tuesday and Wednesday. If you visit when headquarters is closed, please pay fees online or at the self-pay station near headquarters. 

Closures

Dec. 9, 2025: The Roadrunner Loop trail is closed due to utility line work.

Oct. 23, 2025 - The courtesy dock is closed.

Utility Work

Jan. 14, 2026 - Utility work is underway in the park. Water is turned off in campsites #93 - #128 until work is complete.

Observe signs and drive with caution around the work area.

Check back for updates to these alerts.

Boat Ramp Closed

Aug. 27, 2025 - The Mesquite boat ramp is closed due to low lake levels. The Opossum ramp is open.

Contact the park or check back for updates.

Boil Water Notice

Jan. 28, 2026 - A boil water notice is in effect. Please bring enough water for cooking and drinking or boil any water you use.

Please be prepared for water and power outages due to the expected freezing temperatures.

Construction Alerts

Nov. 28, 2025 - Park improvements are planned through September 2026 causing temporary campsite closures throughout the park. Expect to see workers, machinery, and construction during your stay.

Check back for updates. 

Birch Creek Alerts

Aug. 26, 2025 - Pavilions at Birch Creek are closed. 

Feb. 16, 2024 - The Birch Creek fishing pier is closed due to damage. 

Nails Creek Alerts

Dec. 18, 2025 -  The Nails Creek boat ramp is closed due to the low lake level.

Hunt Closures

Flag Pond Loop and Waldo's Loop trails will be closed from sunrise to noon daily during Early Teal, Regular North Zone Duck and Youth-Only Waterfowl seasons. Ask at headquarters if they are closed during your visit. 

Only hunters with permits will be allowed in closed areas.

Trailway Bridges Out

May 1, 2024 - Two bridges on the Trailway are washed out, one over Nails Creek and one over Yegua Creek near the Newman Bottom parking area. Please reach out to either Nails Creek or Birch Creek headquarters for more information before heading out on the Trailway.

Contact the park for more information or check back for updates.

Burn Ban

Jan. 8, 2026 - A burn ban is in effect. No outdoor burning is allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane) or an enclosed charcoal grill with a lid for cooking.

Check back for updates.

Firewood Quarantine

May 16, 2024 - This county is under a quarantine to prevent the spread of the emerald ash borer to other areas of the state. This means movement of firewood is restricted.

Please buy firewood where you burn it to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.

Call the park or check back here for updates.

Burn Ban

Aug. 12, 2025 - No wood or charcoal fires allowed. Containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane) are allowed for cooking.

Check back for updates.

Phones Down

Jan. 28, 2026 - Phones are down at the park. Please email us with questions.

Check back for updates.

Argentine Ants

Argentine ants, an invasive species, have been identified in some campsites in the park. The ants do not sting.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is working with experts to reduce the ants without harming natural resources. Before leaving, thoroughly inspect your vehicle, RV, camping gear and other equipment; if you see the ants, please notify park staff immediately and they can offer guidance for treating. For park-specific questions, please contact the park at (903) 836-4336.

Closures

Feb. 1, 2026 - The 100 and 200 camping loops and restrooms in those loops at the Hen House Ridge Uni9t are closed for a construction project. 

Jan. 1, 2026 - The foot bridge to the Island Trail in the Walnut Slough day-use area is closed for repairs through the end of January 2026.

Check back for updates.

Reservations Recommended

We strongly encourage you to purchase day passes in advance for weekends, school breaks and holidays. Day passes sell out every weekend and holiday.

Check back for updates.

Prescribed Burns

Prescribed burns are planned January through April, depending on weather and other factors. Prescribed burns and the associated smoke may affect your visit. Some camping areas, lodging facilities, trails, and day-use areas may be closed for public safety. Contact the park to learn more.

Contact the park for updates.

Closures 

Aug. 22, 2025 - The following areas are closed:

• The gate at the south end of the park
• Pavilions (Rock Tabernacle, Breezeway and Wood Tabernacle)
• Water-only campsites.

Swimming and fishing are unavailable until flood repairs and cleanup are completed.

Check back for updates. 

Construction Notice

Dec. 29, 2025 - The upper level (viewing area and picnic tables) and parking lot are closed for construction. The overflow parking lot and a pathway to the park is open. 

Check back for updates.

Closures

Jan. 29, 2026 - The boardwalk at the intersection of the Ottine Swamp Trail and Mesquite Flats Trail is closed for repairs.

Dec. 30, 2025 - Oxbow Lake Trail is partially closed for construction.

Sept. 23, 2025 - Kayak and paddle board rentals are closed due to renovations on the fishing pier and kayak launch.

Contact the park or check back for updates.

Boil Water Notice

Jan. 29, 2026 - The following areas are under a boil water notice:

• Hackberry
• Mesquite
• Juniper
• Wolfberry

Please bring enough water for your visit or be prepared to boil any water you use.

Burn Ban

Oct. 20, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No ash-producing fires (wood or charcoal) are allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves with a cut-off valve for cooking.

Equestrian Closures

Jan. 9, 2026 - The equestrian campsites and equestrian trail are closed for trail maintenance.

Check back for updates.

Park Closed for Construction

Jan. 1, 2025 - The park is closed to all public access as it is under construction.

Check back for updates. 

Reservations Recommended

Guarantee entrance by making reservations for day passes or campsites before visiting on weekends, school breaks and holidays. Permits often sell out for these busy times.

Check back for updates to these alerts. 

Phone Outage

Jan. 21, 2026 - Phones are down in the park. Email us with questions or check back for updates.

Facility Closures

July 2, 2025 - The restrooms in the Shady Grove Loop are closed due to an issue with the sewer system. Restrooms at in other areas of the park are open.

March 3, 2025 - Our ADA kayak launch is closed for repairs. 

Firewood Quarantine

May 16, 2024 - This county is under a quarantine to prevent the spread of the emerald ash borer to other areas of the state. This means movement of firewood is restricted.

Please buy firewood where you burn it to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.

Call the park or check back here for updates.

Park Closed

Nov. 1, 2025 - The park is closed for development. An opening date has not been set. Learn more on our Park Development page.

Check back for updates. 

Park Closed

May 1, 2025 - The park is closed for development. An opening date has not been set. Check back for updates.

Trails Update

Check for trails updates.

Check back for updates.

Campground Closures

Jan. 27, 2026 - The Riverbend, North Concho, and Bald Eagle campgrounds remain closed due to a water line break.

Flood Closures

Dec. 4, 2025 - Lower Ghost Camp Trail is closed due to flood damage. Observe closure signs for your safety.

Sticker Bur Alert

We have lots of sticker burs in and around our campsites right now. Wear good shoes and be cautious with pets and children.

North Shore Gate Locked

Look for the gate code on your entry receipt or check in at the South gatehouse (362 S. FM 2288).

Check back for updates or contact the park for more information.

Beach Closures

Jan. 1, 2026 - The East Beach will be closed to all traffic, including foot traffic, through Feb. 6, 2026, for feral hog hunts.

Jan. 30, 2025 - Due to damage from high tides, a large washout about a mile down West beach is limiting vehicle access.

Check back for updates.

Construction Closure

May 1, 2025 - The Roadrunner Flat camping loop is closed for construction.

Check back for updates. 

Burn Ban

Jan. 16, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. Wood and charcoal fires are not allowed. You may cook with containerized fuel stoves.

Construction Notice

Park Closures

The park will be closed for wildlife management activities on the following dates:

• 5 p.m. Feb. 2 to 2 p.m. Feb. 6, 2026

Only hunters with permits will be allowed in during these times. 

Check back for updates or contact the park for more information.

Trail Closures

Nov. 17, 2025 - The following trails have reopened:

• Nature Trail
• Most Ironwood Trail
• Barred Owl Trail
• Pileated Trail

All other trails are closed due to storm damage.

Check back for updates.

Trail Closures

Some trails will be closed on the following dates:

• Jan. 31, 2026: EZ, A, B, C, and D loops will be closed for a special event. Whispering Pines and Lakeshore Trail will remain open.

Check back for updates.

Winter Weather Notice

Jan. 26, 2026 - The primitive camping area is closed with water shut off due to freezing temperatures.

Area Closures

Oct. 17, 2025 - The swimming area and some campsites are closed due to hurricane damage. Swimming is temporarily allowed at the canoe launch area.

Check back for updates.

Jan. 1, 2024 – The tram and tramway grounds are closed except for special events.