Fort Parker State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fort Parker State Park |
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Fort Parker State Park
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 Fort Parker State Park
Location in Texas
Fort Parker State Park
Location in the United States
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| Location | Limestone County, Texas |
| Nearest city | Mexia, Texas |
| Area | 1,458.8 acres (590.4 ha) |
| Established | 1941 |
| Visitors | 50,432 (in 2022) |
| Governing body | Texas Parks and Wildlife Department |
Fort Parker State Park is a fun state park located near the city of Mexia in Limestone County, Texas. It's a great place for outdoor adventures in the United States!
The park was created when the city of Mexia and three local landowners generously donated the land in 1935. From 1935 to 1942, a special group called the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Company 3807(C) helped build the park. They constructed roads, fun recreational areas, and even a building for snacks and supplies.
One of their biggest projects was building a large, 423-foot-long dam. This dam was made from strong materials like limestone, concrete, and soil across the Navasota River. This amazing effort created the beautiful Lake Fort Parker. The park officially opened to the public in May 1941, with former Texas Governor Pat Neff there for the dedication.
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Outdoor Fun at Fort Parker State Park
Fort Parker State Park offers many exciting activities for visitors. You can explore the park on foot or by bike using its well-maintained trails.
Hiking and Biking Trails
There are three main trails perfect for hiking and biking:
- The Springfield Trail is a 1.5-mile loop, great for a shorter adventure.
- The Navasota River Trail is 0.5 miles long and goes one way, following the river.
- The Baines Creek Trail is 2.5 miles long and also goes one way, offering a longer journey.
Nature Exploration on Bur Oak Trail
If you love learning about nature, check out the Bur Oak Trail. This 0.5-mile loop is a special nature trail. You can pick up a guide pamphlet that helps you learn about the different plants and trees you see along the way.
Plants and Trees in the Park
The park is home to many different kinds of trees and plants. You might spot large bur oak trees, water oak, and blackjack oak. Other common trees include pecan and eastern red cedar, which is also known as juniper. Look closely, and you might also find beautiful American beautyberry bushes and sumac plants.
History of Old Springfield Cemetery
Inside Fort Parker State Park, you'll find the Old Springfield Cemetery. This cemetery is all that remains of a town called Springfield, Texas, which used to be a busy community.
Springfield's Past
Springfield was once the main town of Limestone County and was very active in the 1840s and 1850s. However, when many men left to fight in the American Civil War, the town's businesses started to close down. After the war, things changed, and the town faced difficulties. When the railroad was built, it went through the nearby towns of Mexia and Groesbeck instead of Springfield. Because of this, the town of Springfield slowly faded away.
Park Facilities and Activities
Fort Parker State Park has many facilities to make your visit enjoyable.
Fort Parker Nature Center
The Fort Parker Nature Center is open every weekend. It's a great place to learn more about the park's wildlife and environment.
Water Activities and Rentals
If you love being on the water, you're in luck! You can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats to explore Lake Fort Parker.
Staying at the Park
The park offers different options for staying overnight. You can enjoy day use, go overnight camping, or even rent group barracks for larger groups. There's also an activity center and a picnic pavilion available to rent for events or gatherings.
Old Fort Parker Historic Site
Close to the state park is the Old Fort Parker historic site. The same CCC Company that built the state park also helped rebuild this fort for the Texas Centennial celebration in 1936. It's important to know that Old Fort Parker is an independent nonprofit organization and is not part of the state park itself. It's a separate historical site you can visit nearby.
Images for kids
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Old Fort Parker Blockhouse
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Old Fort Parker interior
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John Parker marker
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Texas historical marker in Crowell, Texas
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