Abilene State Park is located in Elm Creek recreational area, a mere 16-mile drive southwest of Abilene. This area was frequented by Native American tribes like the Comanche and Tonkawa, who used to hunt buffalo in this region.
The park’s facilities were built in the early 1930s by The Civilian Conservation Corps. Abilene State Park opened to the public on May 10th, 1934.
This beautiful park is surrounded by low limestone hills and beautiful oak, elm, and pecan trees. It features a lake, a historic swimming pool, small trails, camping sites, etc. The park offers various activities like camping, hiking, biking, nature watching, picnicking, swimming, birdwatching, and fishing.
Activities at Abilene State Park
Abilene State Park is open all year-round; however, their pool is only available during the summer season. Still, there are so many things to see and do here that you will be sure to have a great time no matter when you decide to visit. There is fun for all ages, from geocache to hiking, fishing to bike riding.
Keep in mind that the park’s busy season is March through November. Therefore, it is essential to make reservations for daily passes and camping as they often reach capacity.
To help you better plan your visit, here’s a list of all the activities the park has to offer:
Boating at Abilene Abilene State Park
Enjoy the fresh water at Lake Abilene by renting a canoe or kayak through one of their vending machines nearby. Keep in mind that Lake Abilene is a no-wake lake, which means that motorized boats need to be operated at the lowest speed available. Review water safety measures here.
Fishing at Abilene Abilene State Park
Fishing is a popular activity for all ages, so head on to Lake Abilene or Buffalo Wallow Pond and drop a line. You could catch anything from bass, crappie, catfish, and perch.
(You do not need a license to fish from shore in a state park).
Shop at Abilene Abilene State Park
Get yourself a souvenir at the Abilene Park Shop to remember your adventure-filled trip.
Swimming at Abilene Abilene State Park
With several bodies of water at your disposal, you’ll have the opportunity to cool off during the warm months at Lake Abilene (no lifeguard is on duty/ swim at your own risk) or their historic 1930s swimming pool.
When their pool is open during the summer months, you must purchase a day pass and a pool ticket to access their pool. You can buy your tickets online or get your same-day tickets in person (first-come, first-served).
Ticket Prices
- $1 for 12 and under
- $2 for 13 and up
If you are looking to rent the pool and have a pool party, you can make reservations through the park at least three weeks before your event. You will also be required to call and pay by 10 am on the day of your reservation.
The pool is not available to rent or for parties during the holidays. It is also important to notice that the pool often reaches capacity on the weekends, and park visitors and campers will not be guaranteed access once the safe bather load is reached. Finally, although the swimming pool has ADA entry options, its restrooms are not entirely wheelchair complaint.
Nature and wildlife at Abilene Abilene State Park
Located in the western portion of North Central Texas, Abilene State Park is located in a semi-arid region. The park’s surroundings include the Callahan Divide (a low range of limestone hills).
The plant life is very diverse, and you will be sure to find mesquite, juniper, cedar, native pecan, elm, Texas red oak trees, and wildflowers.
Wildlife includes white-tailed deer, armadillos, foxes, cottontail rabbits, birds like the greater roadrunner, the hummingbird, and more, so make sure to bring your camera.
Hiking at Abilene Abilene State Park
Abilene State Park offers an easy to moderate range of trail systems that will meet your family or group’s comfort level. All trails mentioned here are for both hiking and biking. Here are a few of the trails:
- Abilene Dam Road → the parks longest and only moderate trail at 3.5 miles; this scenic loop will overlook both Lake Abilene and Elm Creek Valley. You might be able to spot some cool wildlife along with the trail like roadrunners, white-tailed deer in the hills, and even some beavers as you get closer to the lake.
- Amphitheater Trail → an easy and quite short .02-mile trail hidden within the amphitheater. This is an ideal location for those looking to have a small private ceremony or concert.
- Bird Trail → an easy .3-mile trail that was once the Civilian Conservatory Corps Road.
- Buffalo Wallow Nature Trail → another easy .2-mile trail that will take you around the pond where you will find cool reptiles and amphibians. Great for a comfortable family adventure with the little ones.
- Eagle Trail → the only ADA-friendly trail. This .2-mile easy hike takes you past the park’s water tower. You will be able to find benches along the trail to help you rest along the way or simply take in all of the nature around you.
- Elm Creek Nature Trail → this easy trail is almost a mile, covering .9 miles. This short trip around the park will take you through its towering elm, oak, pecan, and black willow trees. Perfect for those looking to have a cooling shade during the warm months.
Pets At Abilene Abilene State Park
Like most Texas state parks, pets are allowed as long as they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet. They are also restricted from entering any buildings.
Camping at Abilene Abilene State Park
With 35 camping sites available and two group recreation halls, spending the night in an RV site, a screened shelter, or in one of the yurts is a great way to enjoy all that the park offers.
Depending on where you stay, pricing ranges from $12 a night to $50 (plus the daily entrance fee).
Check for availability and reserve online here.
Park Location
Abilene State Park
150 Park Road 32
Tuscola, TX 79562
Phone: 325.572.3204
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Abilene State Park:
