Cleburne State Park wilderness guide
State Park · TX

Cleburne State Park

Cleburne State Park offers a scenic outdoor retreat around Cedar Lake with opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing in the rolling hills of North Texas.

State Park5254+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

525

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Cleburne State Park

Cleburne State Park offers a scenic outdoor retreat around Cedar Lake with opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing in the rolling hills of North Texas.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located near the city of Cleburne in Johnson County, Texas, Cleburne State Park spans over gentle hills and woodlands surrounding Cedar Lake, an 116-acre reservoir. The park's geography consists of a combination of mature hardwoods and native grasses common to the Cross Timbers region. Visitors experience an ecosystem that supports white-tailed deer, various songbirds, and plentiful fish species such as largemouth bass and channel catfish stocked in the lake. Established in 1934 and developed with help from the Civilian Conservation Corps, the park reflects both natural and historical value with several stone structures and picnic areas dating back to its early days. Outdoor recreation highlights include well-maintained hiking and biking trails, a seasonal boat ramp for non-motorized watercraft, fishing piers, and a variety of campsites. The park's gently rolling terrain and spacious campground make it a popular destination for families and groups looking to camp near the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Its blend of woodlands, water access, and wildlife offers ample opportunities for nature photography and bird watching. Seasonal events and ranger-led programs enhance the visitor experience throughout the year.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Cleburne State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Cedar Lake – central recreational lake for fishing and paddling✦ CCC-era stone picnic pavilion and historic park structures✦ Seven miles of multi-use hiking and mountain biking trails✦ Well-equipped family campground with shaded sites
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Cleburne State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Cleburne State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Cleburne State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Cleburne State Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Cleburne State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Cleburne State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Cleburne State Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Cleburne State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Cleburne State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

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

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fees are charged per vehicle; no special permits 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 Cleburne State Park

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

Group Camp

Large group camping area ideal for clubs or family reunions, with picnic tables and grills.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Cleburne State Park

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

Cleburne, Texas
⌖ 2.30 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cleburne, Texas

Cleburne, Texas offers outdoor lovers a peaceful destination with hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and fishing around Cleburne State Park and Lake Pat Cleburne. Ideal for camping and bird watching in East-Central Texas.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Joshua, Texas
⌖ 7.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Joshua, Texas

Joshua, Texas is a small town near Joe Pool Lake and Cedar Hill State Park, offering hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing for outdoor lovers seeking a quieter Texas Hill Country escape.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Burleson, Texas
⌖ 14.42 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Burleson, Texas

Burleson, Texas offers a quiet outdoor escape with easy access to hiking, mountain biking, and paddling near Dallas-Fort Worth. Its parks and nature preserves provide diverse trails and scenic spots for active days or relaxing picnics.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Crowley, Texas
⌖ 15.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Crowley, Texas

Crowley, Texas, is a small town offering easy access to peaceful parks, gentle hiking trails, and relaxing fishing spots. Ideal for families and casual outdoor lovers seeking quiet nature experiences near the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Glen Rose, Texas
⌖ 20.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Glen Rose, Texas

Glen Rose is a Texan gem offering unique experiences like hiking amongst dinosaur tracks, kayaking the Paluxy River, and wildlife photography at Fossil Rim. Ideal for nature lovers seeking a serene retreat.

Mansfield, Texas
⌖ 22.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mansfield, Texas

Mansfield, Texas offers accessible hiking, biking, and paddling adventures in a family-friendly setting near Joe Pool Lake. Ideal for outdoor lovers looking for day trips around DFW with parks, trails, and water recreation.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Cleburne State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

An Afternoon with Kunekune: Belly Rubs and Piglets at Halbert Farm
ADVEXPEDITION
Burleson, Texas
FarmADV Bookable

An Afternoon with Kunekune: Belly Rubs and Piglets at Halbert Farm

A 1.5-hour, adult-only farm visit in Burleson led by owner and pig whisperer Joshua that walks you through backyard meet-and-greets, farrowing pens, paddocks and a pond—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

FarmPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Berkshire Tritoon Days: A Family Cruise Across Lake Granbury
ADVEXPEDITION
Granbury, Texas
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Berkshire Tritoon Days: A Family Cruise Across Lake Granbury

Rent a 23' Berkshire Tritoon from Lake Granbury Marina — roomy seating, Bimini shade and a powerful sound system for a day on the water; pets are permitted for an additional cleaning fee.

Boat RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip