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Boat Ramp Closed

March 1, 2025 - Boat ramps are closed, and kayak rentals are not available due to the low lake level. 

Contact the park or check back for updates.

Burn Ban

Dec. 5, 2024 - No wood fires allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane) for cooking or charcoal. No wood may be used in the fire rings or pedestals.

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. 

Park Closure

The interior of the park will be closed from Wednesday, Oct. 1, through 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025, for wildlife management activities.

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. 

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 Closure

The interior of the park will be closed from Wednesday, Oct. 1, through 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025, for wildlife management activities.

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

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.

Burn Ban

May 14, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No wood or charcoal fires are allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves for cooking. 

Road Construction

Jan. 6, 2025 - Road construction in the park has begun. The project may last through May 2025. During this time, various sections of roadway will be closed or under repair. Please observe warning signs for your safety.

Hydrilla Alert

July 12, 2024 - 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. Contact the park office with questions.

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

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

Restroom Closure

Oct. 16. 2024 - The Cozy Circle campground restrooms are closed, but port-a-potties are available. 

Check back for updates.

Restroom Closures

April 14, 2025 - The restrooms may be closed due to water pressure issues. Composting and vault toilets are available. 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 or contact the park for more information.

Boating Notices

Dec. 23, 2024 - Due to very low lake levels:

• Exercise extra caution when operating watercraft on the lake. We recommend only using shallow bottom boats.
• Exercise caution while launching or removing watercraft at the Calliham Boat Ramp. 
• The following boat ramps are closed:
  • South Shore
  • Hwy. 99
  • Mason Point

Contact the park for more information.

Park Closed

May 23, 2025 - The park is closed due to flooding on the only access road. We will reopen once the water recedes.

Boat Ramp Use Limited

April 1, 2024 - The boat ramp is closed to boats requiring a trailer to load or unload due to low water level. Only kayaks and hand loaded/unloaded watercraft are allowed to use the ramp. 

Heat Warning

May 19, 2025 - Carry plenty of water for you, your family and your pets during the hot summer months. Experts recommend one liter of water per person per hour of activity. Water spigots are available in the campground. Many of our trails are rocky and unshaded; they get very hot on summer days. 

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.

Weather Closures

May 8, 2025 - At the South Sulphur unit, part of the Buggy Whip Hike and Equestrian Trail system are closed due to flood damage.  Lonesome Dove, Rabbit Run, and Pioneer Pass Loops are also closed.  Little Bluestem loop, and the Coyote Run Hike and Bike Trail remain open.

Facility Closures

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 to these alerts.

Museum Closed

Sept. 1, 2024 - The museum at park headquarters is closed for renovations.

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. 

Black Bear Restaurant

April 28, 2025 - The Black Bear Restaurant is now open for breakfast and lunch! Hours are 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday through Monday.

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

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.

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.

Flooding Closures

May 16, 2025 – The park is open, but some trails, the swim beach, boat ramp and both fishing piers are closed due to muddy conditions and high water levels. 

Ask at headquarters about which trails are open before you hike.

OHV Trail Closure

May 15, 2025 - The OHV trail is closed due to recent rain. 

Road Construction

March 14, 2025 - When visiting the park, please use Exit 72 off Highway 75 due to construction. 

Utility Closures

Oct. 23, 2024 - The restroom in the Deer Haven camping loop is closed due to a plumbing issue. Portable restrooms are available. 

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.

Conserve Water

March 12, 2025 - The shower building and comfort station will be closed from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily due to the ongoing drought. Portable toilets are available.

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, on our Facebook page, or on our X feed.

Road Construction

Oct. 12, 2024 - Roadwork is underway on FM 1015 next to the park's entrance. Expect lane closures and redirected traffic; use caution when entering and exiting the park. A temporary alternate entrance to the park is in place.

Check back for updates.

Phone Issues

Jan. 15, 2025 - Our main phone line is experiencing issues. Please contact the park at (956) 848-5780. Check back for updates.

Flooding Alert

May 6, 2025 - All trails are open but are undergoing maintenance due to recent flooding. Use caution and hike or bike at your own risk. Check back for updates.

Front Office Construction

May 6, 2025- The headquarters building is under construction, but we are still open. Use the self-pay station if the office is closed or make your reservation online.

Park Closure

The interior of the park will be closed from Wednesday, Oct. 1, through 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025, for wildlife management activities.

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. 

Fishing Piers Closed

Sept. 23, 2024 - Both fishing piers are closed for maintenance. 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

April 10, 2024 - Several sections of trails will be closed for accessibility improvements from April 14 to May 23. Closures include:

• Sections of the Oak Mott and Eskimo Curlew trails, from the parking lot to the observation tower and short boardwalk
• Part of the trail parking lot.

Dec. 10, 2024 - Some boardwalks are closed due to flood damage. Please observe closure signs for your safety.

Check back for updates.

Construction Notice

May 14, 2025 - Roadwork 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.

Expect construction in the Pecan Grove camping area through June 20, 2025. This construction may impact the road access to the Old Baldy trailhead.

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

Burn Ban

April 11, 2025 - A burn ban is in effect. No ash-producing fires allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane) for cooking or propane fire camp rings. 

Campsite Closures

The bayfront campsites on the west end of the island (sites 25-44) will be closed for improvements beginning May 2025. Expect maintenance equipment in the area. 

Water Conservation Alert

June 5, 2024 - 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.

Holiday Schedule

Feb . 7, 2025 - The park opens for extra days around some holidays. Check our 2025 Holiday Schedule for information. 

Bauer Unit Notice

April 30, 2025 - We are unable to take cash payments at the Bauer Unit Trailhead. Please purchase your day pass online, then print and display in your vehicle. You can also stop by headquarters before hiking or use the QR code at the trailhead.

Conserve Water

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

Check back for updates on these alerts.

Trail Updates

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

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.

Black Bear Restaurant

April 28, 2025 - The Black Bear Restaurant is now open for breakfast and lunch! Hours are 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday through Monday.

Contact the park or check back here for details.

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.

Burn Ban

May 19, 2025 - No wood fires are allowed. Charcoal and containerized fuel stoves (e.g. propane) are allowed for cooking.  

Park Hours

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

Check back for updates.

Phone Outage

May 23, 2025 - Phones are down in the park. 

Facility Closures

Dec. 31, 2024 - The park's crappie dock is closed, due to unsafe conditions. 

The Rec Hall, group lodges, cabins and Lakeside Trail will be closed for renovations starting on Aug. 18, 2025. Renovations are expected to take about 18 months.  

Check back for updates to these alerts.

Construction Alert

March 25, 2025 - Expect construction in the Rolling Hills and Mesquite Loop camping areas. Contact the park for details.

Headquarters Hours

Jan. 3, 2025 - The park is open, but headquarters is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Pay fees online or use the self-pay kiosk if you visit on these days. 

Courtesy Dock Closed

Sept. 6, 2024 - The courtesy dock is underwater and not accessible, due to the rising lake level.

Check back for updates to these alerts.

Burn Ban

April 2, 2025 - Burn ban in effect. No open wood or charcoal fires are allowed. You may use charcoal grills with a lid or containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane) for cooking.

Water Outage

Water will be shut off in the park on Tuesday, May 28, for maintenance. Restrooms at headquarters will be open; all others will be closed. 

Boat Ramps Closed

Sept. 4, 2024 - Both boat ramps are closed due to low lake levels.

Contact the park or check back for updates.

Fishing/Boating Alerts

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

Camping Closure

Overnight camping will be closed at the Nails Creek Unit on Oct. 1-2, 2025, for a special event. Trails beyond the Rocky Point turnoff will also be closed.

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 to these alerts.

Boo in the Park Reservations

Boo in the Park 2025 will be held on Oct. 18, 2025. Camping reservations for Oct. 17–18, 2025 are open and must be made by phone at (903) 560-7123. Reservations will be handled directly by the park.

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

May 13, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No open flames allowed; you may cook with a containerized fuel stove. 

Golf Course Closures

The golf course will be closed on the following dates:

• Thursday, May 22, for maintenance
• Friday, May 30, for a tournament.

Check back for updates.

Construction Notice

Beginning April 20, 2025, the day-use area restrooms and the campground restrooms and showers will be closed for construction. Temporary restrooms and showers will be available. 

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.

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 here for updates.

Construction Closures

Portions of the park will be closed for construction through August 2025. Areas closed include the commemorative mission, camping, fishing pond, El Camino Real access, day-use area and playground. 

The park will remain open during this time for day use with limited access to some hiking/biking trails and the Rice Family Log Cabin.

Contact the park for updates.

Closures 

Sept. 17, 2024 - The lower part of the park is closed due to repeated flooding events.

Swimming, fishing, and day use along the river are unavailable until flood repairs and cleanup are completed.

Headquarters Closed

Headquarters will be closed on May 28, 2025, for staff training. Pay fees online or at the self-pay station. 

Event notice

We are hosting 24 Hours in the Canyon, a road and mountain bike race, on May 30 - June 1, 2025. Park Road 5 will be closed from the Old West Stables to the back of the park from 8 a.m. Saturday, May 31, through 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 1. Only those participating in the event will be able to access closed areas.

Shower Closure

April 16, 2025 - The showers in the Mesquite restroom are closed for repairs but the toilets remain open. Showers are available at the Juniper Restroom.

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. 

Burn Ban 

May 14, 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.

Closures

Oct. 22, 2024 - The North Loop Equestrian Trail and Duck Pond are closed. 

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. 

Kayak Launch Closed

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.

Phone Outage

May 15, 2025 - Phones are down at the park. Check back for updates.

Trails Update

Check for trails updates.

Greenbelt Closures

May 12, 2025 - The river paddling trail, U.S. 380 access, and all trails south of the 428 Access are closed due to flood and storm damage. 

Check back for updates.

Trail Closures

March 31, 2025 - Most trails are open after the recent flooding event, but some are still wet. Check at headquarters for the latest trail closure info. 

Trail Closure

March 22, 2025 - The Burkett Trail Bridge is closed. Do not cross the caution tape. Use the alternative creek crossing route on Burkett Trail. 

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

Check in at the South Shore entrance (362 S. FM 2288) to get the gate code for the North Shore.

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

Beach Closures

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

Oct. 10, 2024 - The East Beach is closed until further notice. 

Check back for updates.

Construction Closure

The Roadrunner Flat camping loop will be closed for construction beginning May 2025. Check back for updates. Contact the park for more information.

Tower Closed

May 14, 2025 - The John Jacob Observation Tower is closed for maintenance.

Check back for updates. 

Burn Ban

May 14, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No ash-producing fires allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves for cooking. 

Construction Notices

Jan. 1, 2025 - Campgrounds, trails and bird blinds are open and accessible. 

• Construction continues on a replacement of the low-water crossing at the park's entrance. Access to the river for tubing, paddling, fishing and swimming is available. Watch for signs or ask park headquarters about temporary river access points. River portage around construction is clearly marked.
• Expect construction noise, construction traffic on the roadways, and possible road or lane closures at the park.

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

Trail Closures

May 14, 2025 - Part of the Pileated Trail is closed - from the starting point to the Nature Trail. 

Dec. 29, 2024 - Some trails are closed due to storm damage.

Please observe closure signs for your safety. 

Area Closures

Jan. 29, 2025 - The swimming area and some campsites are closed due to hurricane damage. Check back for updates.

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