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Burn Ban

March 7, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. Wood fires are not allowed. You may use charcoal and containerized fuel stoves for cooking. 

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.

Pool Closure

The pool area will be closed from May 5 - 9, 2025 for our annual pool cleaning. The pool will reopen on Saturday, May 10, 2025. Contact the park for details.

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. 

Sauceda Ranger Station

Oct. 25, 2024 - 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.

Burn Ban

March 13, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No ash-producing fires (wood or charcoal) are allowed. You may cook with containerized fuel stoves. 

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.

Sauceda Ranger Station

Oct. 25, 2024 - 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.

Burn Ban

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

Burn Ban

March 4, 2025 - No wood and 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. 

Special Event Notice

The Brazos Bend 50 running event will take place on Saturday, April 5. Day passes will only be available first-come, first-served at the park. Expect busy trails and full parking lots. Check back for updates.

Restroom Closure

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

Check back for updates.

Boat Ramp Closure

The park's boat ramp will be closed from 10 p.m. Friday, March 14, until 4 p.m. Saturday, March 15, for a special event. Contact the park for more information or 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.

Boil Water Notice

Feb. 10, 2025 - The park is under a boil water notice. Bring water for cooking and drinking or be prepared to boil water from the park. 

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.

Burn Ban

March 3, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No ash-producing fires (including wood and charcoal) are allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves for cooking. 

Controlled Burns

Dec. 16, 2024 - A recent controlled burn has resulted in smoky areas in the park. More controlled burns may happen through April 2025, depending on weather and other factors. Controlled fires and the associated smoke may impact your visit. Check back for updates.

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. 

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.

Trail Closure

March 7, 2025 - The Cedar Creek Trail at Doctor's Creek Unit is closed due to storm damage. Please observe closures for your safety. 

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.

Prescribed Burns

Prescribed burns are planned through April 2025, depending on weather and other factors. Prescribed fires and the associated smoke may impact your visit. Expect trail closures during burns. 

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.

Burn Ban

March 10, 2025 - A burn ban is in effect. No ash-producing fires are allowed, including wood or charcoal. You may use containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane) for cooking only.

Extreme Wind

March 12, 2025 - Extreme wind speed is expected Friday, March 14, 2025, with gusts up to 65 mph. Secure your belongings, and practice extreme caution if travelling.

Low Lake Level

Sept. 11, 2024 - The lake level is extremely low. The swimming area, fishing pier and boat ramp are closed. Contact the park for updates.

Museum Closed

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

Sidewalk Project

Jan. 13, 2025 - Part of the day-use area is closed for a sidewalk improvement project. The swim/beach area and the back deck of the pavilion are open.

You may hear construction noise. Please observe all signs for your safety. The project is expected to be completed by the end of March 2025.

Check back for updates to these alerts.

Burn Ban

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

Renovations Closures

Jan. 1, 2025 - Indian Lodge, including the Black Bear Restaurant, is closed for renovations. Reservations will not be available until a reopening date has been set.

The Indian Lodge trailhead is closed due to the renovations and can be accessed from the Montezuma Quail Trail only. The trail is 1.5 miles round trip from that intersection. 

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

Burn Ban

Nov. 12, 2023 - 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.

Road Construction

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

OHV Trail Closure

March 8, 2025 - The OHV trails are closed due to recent rainfall. Check back for updates.

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.

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.

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 will be available for public use.

Burn Ban

March 4, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No ash-producing fires are allowed. You may cook with containerized fuel stoves with on/off switches. 

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.

Conserve Water!

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

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.

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

June 11, 2024 - All trails are open but are undergoing maintenance due to recent flooding. Use caution and hike or bike at your own risk. Some campsites remain closed. Check back for updates.

Front Office Construction

June 11, 2024 - 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.

Sauceda Ranger Station

Oct. 25, 2024 - 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.

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.

Prescribed Burn

March 6, 2025 - The park will conduct a prescribed burn the morning of March 7 on the bayside of the park if conditions are favorable. Roads may be closed. Please drive carefully and observe posted signs.

Bayside trails will be closed, and Bayside campers may experience smoke lingering in the area. Beachside campers should not be affected. Check back for updates.

Trail Closures

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

Check back for updates.

Construction Notice

March 1, 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 from March 24 until May 23, 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

March 10, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban this weekend. No wood fires are allowed. You may cook with containerized fuel stoves or charcoal. Check back for updates.

Burn Ban in Effect

March 3, 2025 - A burn ban and red flag warning are in effect. No ash producing fires are allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane) for cooking or propane fire camp rings. Contact the park for updates.

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. Check back for updates.

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. 

Burn Ban

March 12, 2025 - Burn ban in effect. No open, ash-producing fires allowed. You can use containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane), for cooking.

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. 

Burn Ban

March 14, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No ash-producing fires (wood and charcoal) allowed. Check back for updates.

Prescribed Burns

Prescribed burns may occur at any time through April 2025. Expect trail closures during burns.

Conserve Water

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

Check back for updates on these alerts.

Burn Ban

Jan. 30, 2025 - No ash-producing fires allowed, including wood and charcoal. Containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane) are allowed for cooking. 

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.

Park Closure

The park will be closed from April 7 - 10, 2025 for natural resource management. 

Area Closures

Aug. 26, 2024 - The park is open, but the swim area remains closed. Some trails are open with limited access. Check back for updates.

Lodge Closure

Indian Lodge, including the Black Bear Restaurant, is closed for renovations. Reservations will not be available until a reopening date has been set.

Partial Trail Closure

Jan. 27, 2023 - The Indian Lodge trailhead is closed due to the renovations and can be accessed from the Montezuma Quail Trail only. The trail is 1.5 miles round trip from that intersection.

Contact the park for details.

Burn Ban

March 3, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No ash-producing fires are allowed. You may cook with containerized fuel stoves. 

Scheduled Water Outage

A water maintenance project will take place throughout the park April 1 and 2, 2025.  Campsites will not have water. Please be prepared to bring your own. All restrooms except Restroom 8 will be closed, but porta-potties will be available. Contact the park for questions. 

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

Aug. 13, 2023 - 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.

Burn Ban

March 11, 2025 - Burn ban in effect. No open, ash-producing fires allowed. You can use containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane), for cooking.

Prescribed Burn

Prescribed burns are planned through April 2025, depending on weather and other factors. The fires and smoke may impact your visit. Expect trail closures during burns. Contact the park for more information.

Burn Ban

March 14, 2025 - Wood or charcoal fires are not allowed. You may cook with propane. Campers may begin using charcoal fires on March 15, 2025. 

Facility Closures

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

The Rec Hall, group lodges, and cabins will be closed for renovations starting on Aug. 18, 2025. Renovations are expected to take about 18 months. The facilities will open for reservations on Feb. 28, 2025. 

Check back for updates to these alerts.

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.

Boat Ramps Closed

Sept. 4, 2024 - Both boat ramps are closed due to low lake levels. Contact the park or check back for updates.

Trailway Closures

The trailway will be closed from the Weatherford Trailhead to Garner Trailhead from Jan. 26 to March. 30, 2025 for extensive improvements. Other areas of the trailway may be closed as well. 

June 1, 2023 - Part of the trailway, from FM 1195 in Mineral Wells to the Vietnam War Memorial, is closed until further notice. Please observe closure signs for your safety.

Fishing/Boating Alerts

Oct. 29, 2024 - The lake level is low; most boats cannot be launched from the Nails Creek boat ramp.

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 have been 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.

Burn Ban

March 14, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No ash-producing fires (wood and charcoal) allowed. 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

March 4, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No ash-producing fires (wood or charcoal) are allowed. You may cook with containerized fuel stoves. Check back for updates. 

Burn Ban

Jan. 9, 2025 - No wood or charcoal fires allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane) for cooking.

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.

Burn Ban

March 13, 2025 - Burn ban in effect. No open, ash-producing fires allowed. You can use containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane), for cooking.

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.

Burn Ban

March 14, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No ash-producing fires (wood or charcoal) are allowed. You may cook with containerized fuel stoves with a shut-off valve. Check back for updates. 

Park Closure

The entire park will be closed from Monday, March 17, through Saturday, March 22, for a prescribed burn. Smoke may linger for a few days after the park reopens.

Construction Closures

Portions of the park will be closed for construction through mid-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.

Burn Ban

March 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 

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.

Campfire Ban

March 10, 2025 - No campfires allowed on the beach due to high winds, but charcoal and containerized fuel may still be used for cooking purposes only.

Burn Ban 

Feb. 25, 2025 - A burn ban is in effect. No ash-producing fires are allowed, including wood or charcoal. You may use containerized fuel stoves with a shut-off valve or on/off switch for cooking. 

Check back for updates to these alerts.

Power Outage

Power will be shut off to the park on March 14, 2025 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., affecting the Trading Post, Visitor's Center and restrooms.

For an easier check in, make reservations online and print out your pass before you arrive.

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

March 3, 2025 - A burn ban is in place. 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.

Trail Closures

Dec. 2, 2024 - The Red and Blue sections of the Wolfpen Hike and Bike Trail are open after maintenance. Read signs and trail markers carefully, as areas of the trail have changed. Check back for updates. 

Trails Update

Check for trails updates.

Special Event Notice

March 10, 2025 - Isle du Bois Unit is hosting a special event this week. Expect the following impacts to your park visit:

• The Isle du Bois boat ramp will be closed all day Wednesday, March 19, and Friday through Sunday, March 21-23.
• The Isle du Bois swim beach will be closed Wednesday, March 19, through Sunday, March 23. The Johnson Branch swim beach will remain open.
• Daily entrance fees will be waived for event spectators Friday through Sunday. Advance day passes will be unavailable for this weekend; entry will be first-come, first-served at the park. 

Greenbelt Closures

Dec. 4, 2024 - U.S. 380 access and all trails south of the Pecan Grove Trail remain closed due to flood and storm damage. Check back for updates.

Burn Ban

Feb. 28, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No ash-producing fires (including wood and charcoal) are allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves for cooking. 

Park Closures

All trails north of the Burkett Trailhead, as well as the River Bend, Bald Eagle and North Concho camping areas, will be closed on the following dates:

• 5 p.m. Mar. 30 to 8 a.m. April 4

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on these dates.

Contact the park for more information.

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

March 6, 2025 - Beach camping is closed through Sunday, March 9, due to high tides.

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.

Winter Weather Notice

Jan. 20, 2025 - Due to extreme cold, we may temporarily shut down the campground water system to protect pipes, especially overnight. Restrooms and water will always be available at park headquarters; you can access restrooms from the back of the building.

Construction Closure

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

Tower Alert

Nov. 23, 2024 - The John Jacob Observation tower is open, but the elevator is out of service.

Check back for updates. 

Burn Ban

March 11, 2025 - No ash-producing fires allowed, including wood and charcoal. You may use charcoal and containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane) for cooking.

Park Closure

The park will be closed on the following dates:

• 5 p.m. March 24 to 2 p.m. March 28

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on these dates. Contact the park for more information.

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

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.