Fort Parker State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Fort Parker State Park is at the Navasota River crossroads, joining two vital ecosystems. You can hike, fish, camp, nature watch, bike, geocache, and paddle. The property offers the Bur Oak Trail, spanning six miles, and the Springfield Trail is two miles. You can attend the annual Spring Trail Ride hosted by the park in April. The weather at the park is hot during the summer and mild in the winter, and the Confederate Reunion Grounds State Historic Site is within five miles of Fort Parker State Park.
Nearby Cities:
Dallas, TX
Waco, TX
Arlington, TX
Mexia, TX
Spring 57-75 F
Summer 76-96 F
Fall 60-79 F
Winter 44-59 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Fort Parker State Park
Campground Accommodations
Fort Parker State Park Campground
Water hookup: Yes
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: No
Wi-Fi: No
Pet-friendly: Yes
Max RV length: 45 feet
Other amenities: Picnic tables, fire ring with grills, restrooms, showers
Fort Parker State Park Campground
Surround yourself with the beauty and serenity of the park by staying in the Fort Parker State Park Campground. Campsites are tucked under the trees, offering plenty of shade and lovely views of the water. For RVs, there are 24 sites with water and 30-amp electricity hookups; four offer pull-through access for big rings. Eight additional sites offer access to water but not to water hookups. When you stay here, you can enjoy a campfire in the fire ring and meals at the picnic tables. Bathrooms and hot showers sit within a quick walk. Partial-hookup sites are $20 per night plus the park entrance fee, and water-only sites are $12 per night.
Running Branch Camp and Marina
Located about 30 minutes south of Fort Parker State Park, Running Branch Camp and Marina has beautiful lake views in a breezy atmosphere. Most of the park’s RV sites offer electric and water hookups; there are a few sites with full hookups. Enjoy the Wi-Fi connection while you walk by the water, and pick up snacks in the on-site store. With a boat ramp, laundromat, and fishing supplies for sale, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing stay. Nightly rates start at $30.
Riverview RV Campground
Are you looking to camp with full hookups? Riverview RV Campground has you covered. This spot, which is located about an hour west of the park in Waco, offers 127 spots, each with water, sewer, electric, and internet access. Book a pull-through site if you’re driving a big rig, and enjoy the convenience of the laundry room and rec room. From your spot under the trees, you'll be close to the saltwater swimming pool, play area, and dog run. Rates start at $40 per night, with discounts for weekly and monthly stays.
What to Do at
Fort Parker State Park
Enjoy outdoor adventures at Fort Parker State Park, including hiking, fishing, camping, nature watching, biking, geocaching, and paddling. You can take on the challenging nature trails, including Bur Oak Trail and Springfield Trail.
Inside Fort Parker State Park
With its near-flat landscape and wide expanse of water, Fort Parker State Park offers an outdoor activity for everyone in the family. The 7-mile trail network is open for both hiking and biking; check out the views on the Springfield Trail, or discover the local flora on the short Bur Oak Trail. When the weather’s warm, go for a swim or rent a kayak for an afternoon on the Limestone Bluffs Paddling Trail, which runs down the Navasota River and along the banks of the lake. If you have your own boat, the park’s boat launch makes it easy to get on the water. License-free fishing is permitted. In the summer, check the park’s calendar and join in one of the fascinating ranger-led programs.
Fishing
Fort Parker State Park is a terrific place to fish, and anglers have had luck during the spring and summer. Among the fish in the lake are largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, white bass, and sunfish. The vegetation in the upper portion of the reservoir makes it difficult to navigate through the waters via boat, so it is recommended that you fish from the riverbank. You aren’t required to get a fishing license to fish at the state park; however, if you fish from a boat, you need a fishing license.
Geocaching
Guests can participate in the geocaching opportunities at Fort Parker State Park. The treasure-hunting game starts at the Springfield Trail, and you can follow the map. Stop by the visitor center for more information about this treasure-hunting game and find hidden gems throughout the park.
Nature Watching
Fort Parker State Park is an incredible location for watching wildlife and birds. Among the birds at the park are herons, bald eagles, owls, and bluebirds. Many animals live within the park’s forest, including coyotes, raccoons, bobcats, and squirrels. On the lake, you can find ducks, water otters, beavers, and the many fish species living under the surface.
Flora and Fauna
At Parker State Park, you’ll see a variety of flowers and blooming plants. Among the plants are standing cypresses, ladies’ tresses, Indian blankets, evening primrose, phlox, and wine cups. The park also has fields of wildflowers. Pay attention to posted signs regarding protected flowers and plants.
Hiking
Bur Oak Trail and Springfield Trail are exceptional choices for hiking at Fort Parker State Park. Bur Oak is six miles, and Springfield is two miles. Both trails offer challenging terrain and scenic views throughout the area. You can enjoy these trails during daytime hours and learn more about wildlife, birds, and plants.
Boating
Fort Parker State Park has a boat ramp and docks to launch your boat into the river. If you choose a motorized boat, you must remain at trolling speed to prevent hazards. You can see breathtaking views of the park and wildlife in the region.
Swimming
Fort Parker State Park has a swimming area for visitors along the riverbanks. Watch for posted signs to find the designated swimming area and follow the instructions on these signs. Summer is the best time for swimming since the water temperature is warmer. The park doesn't have a lifeguard, so guests swim at their own risk.
Biking
Biking on the nature trail is permitted at Fort Parker State Park. The Springfield Trail is about two miles, the Navasota River Trail is 1.9 miles long, and the River Loop Trail is 0.9 miles. The Baines Creek Trail is 2.5 miles long and presents moderate challenges when riding your mountain bike or hiking.
How to Get to
Fort Parker State Park
Drive seven miles south of Mexia to State Highway 14. Continue until you reach Park Road 28, where you will see the park entrance.
By Car
Entering Fort Parker State Park
The entry fee for Fort Parker State Park is $4 per adult, and children 12 and under get in free. You can park your car in the public parking lot if you are just visiting for the day.
Fort Parker State Park Adults : $4.0
Children 12 and under are free
Fort Parker State Park offers many outdoor activities you and your family will enjoy, including walking down nature trails and viewing the impressive wildlife throughout the park. Choosing the best time to visit helps determine which activities are best for your camping or day trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Parker State Park
The best time of year to visit depends on your preferred outdoor activities. For example, if you want to swim, it’s best to visit during the summer when water temperatures are warmer. Hiking, boating, paddling, fishing, and nature watching are activities you can do any time of the year; however, late spring and early fall offer the best temperatures.
At Fort Parker State Park, you’ll see many bird species, including herons, bald eagles, owls, and bluebirds. Coyotes, raccoons, bobcats, and squirrels live throughout the state park. The lake offers ducks and waterfowl. You can see fish species, including largemouth bass.
Yes, Fort Parker State Park offers campsites with electrical and water hookups for RVs.
You aren’t required to make a reservation to camp overnight at Fort Parker State Park. However, you can book a campsite 24 hours before your stay to secure a spot. Camping fees for the RV and tent-only camping spots range from $20 to $50.
Dogs are allowed at Fort Parker State Park, but you must keep your dogs on a leash that is no longer than 6 feet. Review all posted signs for areas where dogs aren’t allowed.
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