State Parks abound in the central Texas region and within a short drive from Waco Texas.<\/p>\n
Whether you are a camper or day tripper, the State Parks surrounding Waco Texas offer a variety of experiences.\u00a0\u00a0 They all offer numerous hiking trails, camping sites, access to lakes with aquatic activities for all members of the family.<\/p>\n
Lake Whitney State Park \u2013 is 39 miles northwest of Waco and 955 acres on the shore of Lake Whitney. Entrance fees are $5.00 with children under 12 free.\u00a0 Camping fees range from $14-$30 per night depending on the amenities. \u00a0Fishing in the 23,000 area US Army Corps of Engineers reservoir on the Brazos River with striped and white bass, smallmouth and largemouth bass, crappie and catfish are a prime attraction.<\/p>\n
Meridian State Park- is 54 miles from Waco and 504 acres.\u00a0 Entry fees are $5 and children under 12 free.\u00a0 The park contains a 72 acre lake with Kayak rentals available.\u00a0 Hiking on the 2.2 mile Bosque Trail\u00a0 that circles the lake, and a 1.5 mile Shinnery Ridge Trail where golden-cheek warblers nest.\u00a0 Group events can be booked.\u00a0 Camp sites from from $15 to $35 per night depending upon amenities.<\/p>\n
Mother Neff State Park \u2013 is 28 miles southwest of Waco.\u00a0 Entry fee is $2 with children under 12 free. This 259 acre park offers camping, playgrounds, easy hikes which meander through wooded creek bottoms and wild-flower prairie.\u00a0 Camping sites from $12 to $25 per night.\u00a0 A Civilian Conservation Corp built lodge with kitchen rents for $160-$200 and sleeps eight with tent sites for 8 more.<\/p>\n
Fort Parker State Park \u2013 46 miles east of Waco and 1459 acres.\u00a0 Entry fee is $4 and children under 12 free.\u00a0 A 750 acre lake backs up to the park.\u00a0 The amenities include hiking, camping, swimming, boating and historical sites..\u00a0 Camp sites range from $12 to $45.<\/p>\n