New Palo Pinto State Park Opens Just In Time For Spring Break in Texas

If you are looking for something cool to do this Spring Break, The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has a new park for you to check out!

Palo Pinto Mountains State Park

Just in time for Spring Break 2026, The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department announces the first new state park opening in North Texas in 25 years.Palo Pinto Mountains State Park is 4,871 acres of former ranch land 75 miles west of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

Make Those Reservations Now

If you plan to visit during Spring Break, TPWD says you need to make those reservations ASAP. Reserve a day pass as soon as can because some parks are expected to reach capacity. You can make that reservation online through the TPWD website HERE. You can also call the Customer Service Center during business hours at (512)389-8900.

How the Park Was Created

According to TPWD, it was in 2008 that the search for suitable park land began. The process of piecing together the park with the help of local landowners made Palo Pinto Mountains State Park a reality. Funding for park construction was supported by the Texas Legislature and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation (TPWF).

A Kaleidoscope of Color

Palo Pinto Mountains is a testament to the beauty of Texas. According to TPWD, the park is filled with year-round green foliage, blue colored, berry-like cones and tinted red bark. In the fall, the park is blazing with red oak and flameleaf sumac trees, which turn crimson, and the pecans and cedar elms that turn golden-yellow.

Activities for Everyone

The park is the perfect place to hike, birdwatch, fish, and swim.

Hiking

The park contains over 16 miles of hiking trails with varying lengths. Family-friendly paths take about 30 minutes while more moderate trails take a while longer.

Birdwatching

The park is the seasonal home to many migratory birds including the endangered golden-cheeked warbler, which visits Palo Pinto during the summer months.

Fishing, Boating, Swimming

90-acre Tucker Lake is a great place to fish, boat and swim. Be advised that boats with motors are not allowed.

Camping

There are different ways to camp, and Palo Pinto Mountains State Park has them all. The park contains new RV sites, areas for walk in tent spots and primitive camping areas.

Texas State Parks Pass

If you plan on visiting multiple state parks this summer, it may save you some money to buy a Texas State Parks Pass (TSPP) for $70. The pass waives fees at all state parks for a full year. Overnight reservations come with discounts.