Stillhouse Hollow Lake Park wilderness guide
Reservoir Recreation Area · TX
Camping Guide

Stillhouse Hollow Lake Park

Stillhouse Hollow Lake Park offers diverse outdoor recreation around a large reservoir in Central Texas, featuring boating, fishing, camping, and hiking opportunities surrounded by rolling hill country terrain.

Reservoir Recreation AreaApproximately 7,000 (lake and surrounding managed land)4+ Trails

Designation

Reservoir Recreation Area

Total Wilderness Area

Approximately 7,000 (lake and surrounding managed land)

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Stillhouse Hollow Lake Park

Stillhouse Hollow Lake Park offers diverse outdoor recreation around a large reservoir in Central Texas, featuring boating, fishing, camping, and hiking opportunities surrounded by rolling hill country terrain.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Stillhouse Hollow Lake Park is centered on the 6,750-acre Stillhouse Hollow Lake, which was created by the impoundment of the Lampasas River in Bell County, Texas. The lake and park are managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and provide a multi-use outdoor destination with abundant recreational possibilities. The park’s geography includes gently rolling Texas Hill Country landscape with mixed woodlands and grassy areas that support a diverse blend of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, various waterfowl, and native fish species. Established in 1968 following the completion of the dam, the lake and surrounding park area play an important role in flood control and regional water supply as well as recreation. Visitors are drawn to the park for boating, with multiple boat ramps and extensive open water to explore. Anglers find good fishing for largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. The park also offers developed campgrounds, picnic areas, and miles of hiking and biking trails winding through scenic hill country terrain. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, photography, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. Stillhouse Hollow Lake Park provides a peaceful, family-friendly experience close to the city of Belton and the Fort Hood military base. This accessible destination appeals to anyone looking to enjoy fresh air and outdoor activities in a natural lakeside environment.

Field Guide · Reservoir Recreation Area

Notable Landscape Features

Iconic geological landmarks, alpine vantage points, and distinctive ecosystems in Stillhouse Hollow Lake Park.

Feature 1

Stillhouse Hollow Lake

A 6,750-acre reservoir formed by the Lampasas River dam, offering extensive water-based recreation.

Feature 2

Hiking and Mountain Biking Trails

Over 22 miles of trails weaving through oak-juniper woodlands along the lake shoreline.

Feature 3

Stillhouse Hollow Park Campgrounds

Multiple developed campgrounds providing lakeside spots with modern amenities.

Key Wilderness Highlights

Large reservoir ideal for boating and fishing with multiple public boat rampsDiverse Texas Hill Country habitat with excellent wildlife and bird watchingMultiple developed campgrounds and day-use picnic areas with lake accessPopular mountain biking trails with scenic lake views around the park perimeter
Iconic Trails & Natural Landmarks

Top Trails & Sights in Stillhouse Hollow Lake Park

Discover summit paths, alpine loops, and natural wonders within this protected wilderness.

Moderate6.5

Stillhouse Hollow Lake Trail

A scenic loop providing lakeside views, diverse terrain, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Easy4.0

Kempner Trail

Gentle rolling hike through juniper and oak woodlands, accessible from Kempner Park.

Moderate5.2

Lampasas River Trail

Trail following portions of the Lampasas River upstream, offering quiet water views and birdwatching chances.

Challenging7.0

Hill Country Mountain Bike Trail

Challenging loops for mountain bikers with technical sections, elevation changes, and scenic lookouts.

Waterfall Wonders at Chalk Ridge Falls Park7.0
Waterfall

Waterfall Wonders at Chalk Ridge Falls Park

Explore Chalk Ridge Falls Park in Belton, TX, known for its beautiful waterfalls and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy family-friendly swimming and photography opportunities. Best visited in the spring and fall, but watch for slippery rocks near waterfalls.

Belton, TexasExplore Sight
Waterfall Wonder at Chalk Ridge Falls7.5
Waterfall

Waterfall Wonder at Chalk Ridge Falls

Explore the charming Chalk Ridge Falls in Belton, Texas. Enjoy hiking and nature photography by the stunning waterfall. Best visited in spring and fall. Not wheelchair accessible, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Belton, TexasExplore Sight
Adventures on the Goodwater Loop8.0
Trailhead

Adventures on the Goodwater Loop

Explore the 26-mile San Gabriel River Trail/Goodwater Loop near Georgetown, TX. This spot offers diverse views of limestone bluffs and Lake Georgetown, ideal for hiking, biking, and fishing. Visit in spring or fall for milder weather and enjoy this adventure-seekers paradise.

Georgetown, ColoradoExplore Sight
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Stillhouse Hollow Lake Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Activity Spotlight

Camping in Stillhouse Hollow Lake Park

View Full Park Guide

Stillhouse Hollow Lake Park offers exceptional terrain and routes for camping, featuring established access paths, scenic vistas, and protected wilderness territory.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Stillhouse Hollow Lake Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee; standard Corps of Engineers daily use permits apply for some areas and camping fees are required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Stillhouse Hollow Lake Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Stillhouse Hollow Park Campground

Main campground located on the south shore offering water and electric hookups, picnic tables, and lake access.

Kempner Park Campground

Smaller campground with shaded sites, boat ramps nearby, and close proximity to hiking trails.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Stillhouse Hollow Lake Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic desert basecamps surrounding the park.

Belton, Texas, TX
Gateway Basecamp

Belton, Texas, TX

Belton, Texas, offers outdoor lovers easy access to hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing at Stillhouse Hollow Lake and nearby parks. With mild spring and fall weather, it’s a great spot to camp, explore nature trails, and enjoy quiet lake adventures.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Templeton, Pennsylvania, TX
Gateway Basecamp

Templeton, Pennsylvania, TX

Templeton, Pennsylvania, is a quiet gateway to peaceful adventures like hiking and paddling amid the wooded Clear Creek State Forest. Ideal for bird watchers and anglers seeking solitude, it’s a hidden rural spot for nature lovers.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Killeen, Texas, TX
Gateway Basecamp

Killeen, Texas, TX

Killeen offers easy outdoor access with hiking, biking, and paddling near still lakes and natural preserves. Ideal for families and casual adventurers looking for nature close to town and Fort Hood.

Spring and FallExplore Town