LAKE WHITNEY STATE PARK
The 1280.7-acre Lake Whitney State Park was acquired in 1954 by a Department of the Army lease and opened in May 1965; the state has control until 2003. The park is along the east shore of Lake Whitney west of Hillsboro in Hill County, and after the changing of the lake level, totals 955 acres.
The park is located on Lake Whitney near ruins of Towash, an early Texas settlement inundated by Lake Whitney. Towash Village was named for the chief of Hainai Indians, who moved into the area in 1835.
The park is located in the Grand Prairie subregion of the Black land Prairie natural region. It has open disturbed tallgrass prairie remnants with scattered groves of live oak and a small area of post oak/blackjack oak woodland. In the spring, bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and over 40 species of wildflowers cover the roadside and landscape. Common animals include white-tailed deer, raccoons, and squirrels with fox, coyote, and bobcat occasionally being spotted. 194 species of birds have been spotted, including wild turkeys and bald eagles.
1. Lake Whitney State Park offers a designated swimming area for visitors.
2. No lifeguards are on duty, so swim at your own risk.
3. Swimming is not allowed around the boat ramp and dock areas for safety reasons.
4. The park's clear lake waters make it an ideal spot to cool off during hot Texas summers.
5. Visitors can also enjoy snorkeling in certain parts of the lake with their personal gear.
6. Inflatable floats and other water toys are permitted within safe distances from shorelines or docks.
Anglers can enjoy bank or boat fishing, with options for catfish, crappie and striped bass. A fish cleaning station is available. White bass runs occur in the spring (March-May). Largemouth Bass are also present but less abundant.
Lake Whitney State Park is located near Hillsboro, Whitney
Lake Whitney State Park offers numerous picnic sites with tables and grills, some featuring lake views or shaded areas.
Biking enthusiasts can enjoy several miles of trails, suitable for all skill levels. Be cautious as some areas are rocky.
The park offers a variety of terrains including flat paths and hilly sections that require more effort.
Mountain biking is popular here but riders should be careful due to the uneven terrain and potential wildlife encounters.
Riders must stay on designated bike routes; off-trail cycling could damage natural habitats or lead to accidents in unfamiliar territory.
Remember: safety equipment like helmets is essential when riding through these scenic yet challenging landscapes.
It's important not to cycle after dark since visibility decreases significantly increasing risk factors substantially.
Always check weather conditions before setting out, sudden changes may make certain pathways slippery or dangerous.
Birding enthusiasts can spot various species such as the Eastern Bluebird, Scissor-tailed Flycatcher and Painted Bunting. The park is a part of the Great Texas Wildlife Trails system, offering opportunities to see migratory birds like warblers in spring or fall. Birders may also encounter year-round residents including Northern Cardinals, Carolina Chickadees and Tufted Titmice. Raptors such as Red-Tailed Hawks are commonly seen soaring above.
Nearby points of interest include Cleburne State Park, Meridian State Park, Dinosaur Valley State Park, and Mother Neff State Park; The Confederate Museum; Texas Ranger Hall of Fame; and Fossil Rim Exotic Wildlife Ranch.
To reach the park from Interstate 35, take the Hillsboro exit. In Hillsboro take State Highway 22 west to Whitney; then follow the signs to Lake Whitney State Park. The park is located 3 miles west of Whitney on FM 1244 on the shore of Lake Whitney.