The Perfect Guide to Visiting Eisenhower State Park on Lake Texoma
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Looking to explore Eisenhower State Park on Lake Texoma? Then you’re in the right place!
Eisenhower State Park, located on the shores of Lake Texoma in Texas, offers a variety of outdoor activities for anyone looking to explore nature and enjoy the great outdoors.
At over just an hour away from DFW, Eisenhower State Park is the perfect weekend getaway for swimming, fishing and hiking. I’ve put together this ultimate guide to visiting Eisenhower Sate Park.
Ever since moving to DFW, Zack and I have been exploring different Texas State Parks. We’ve been to a few, so I decided to pick one to visit over our three-day weekend. And we chose to explore Eisenhower State Park with our dog, Hank!
How to Get to Eisenhower State Park
If you’re coming from Dallas the drive takes about 1.5 hours. If you’re coming from Fort Worth, like we were, the drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and your starting location.
Take I-35W North toward Denton and merge onto US-75 North (Central Expressway). Once in Denton, connect to US-380 East (for those coming from Fort Worth).
Continue on US-75 North toward Sherman/Denison. From US-75 North, take Exit 72 toward FM 1417/Texoma Parkway. Continue north on TX-91 for several miles. Follow the signs for Eisenhower State Park.
After crossing through Denison, turn left onto Park Road 20, which leads directly into Eisenhower State Park.
Tip: Make sure to check traffic and weather conditions before heading out, as traffic can build up around the US-75 corridor, especially during weekends and holidays.
When to Visit Eisenhower State Park
The best time to visit Eisenhower State Park depends on the activities you want to enjoy and your weather preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the ideal times to visit.
Spring
Spring is one of the best times to visit the park due to mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and active wildlife. The average temperatures range from the 60s to 80s°F, making it ideal for hiking, biking, and enjoying outdoor activities.
This season is perfect for exploring the hiking trails, fishing, and camping in comfortable weather. Wildflowers add beauty to the landscape, enhancing scenic views and photo opportunities.
Summer
Summer is great for water-based activities, as Lake Texoma is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing during the warmer months. However, temperatures can rise into the 90s°F, so prepare for the heat.
Spend time on the lake, take a refreshing swim in the swimming cove, or go boating. The hot weather is also ideal for RV camping, as campsites offer electricity for cooling off.
Tip: Be mindful of the heat and pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and sun protection if visiting in the peak summer months.
Fall
Fall is another excellent time to visit Eisenhower State Park, with cooler temperatures ranging from the 60s to 80s°F. The park is less crowded, and the fall foliage adds a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities.
This season is great for hiking, camping, and fishing. The ATV/Off-Road trails are also enjoyable in the cooler weather. It’s an ideal time to experience the park without the summer heat.
Winter
Winters in Texas are generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s°F. While it’s too cold for swimming, it’s still a great time to camp, hike, and enjoy quiet time in the park.
Winter offers a peaceful experience in the park, with fewer crowds. It’s an excellent time for birdwatching, hiking, and photography. RV camping with hookups is still comfortable in this cooler weather.
Things to Know Before Your Visit
It costs $8 per person to enter (you can purchase ahead of your visit online – it’s so easy on the Reserve America website!). You’ll need your vehicle plate number handy when you register (I always forget what mine is, haha).
Things to Do at Eisenhower State Park
1. Hiking and Biking Trails
The park features several miles of hiking and biking trails with varying difficulty levels. Popular trails include the Eisenhower Trail, which provides scenic views of Lake Texoma and the surrounding landscape, and the Overlook Trail for a more relaxed walk.
Recommended Hike’s
We hiked the Armadillo Hill Trail, which had a lot of rocky grounds. There is slate sticking up in some areas that weren’t the easiest for Hank to walk through, but he was a trooper. We also hike a couple portions of Ike’s Hike and Bike Trail, where we got some amazing views of Lake Texoma.
2. Fishing and Boating
Lake Texoma is a prime fishing spot, especially for those looking to catch striped bass. The park offers access to the lake for both bank fishing and boating. There’s a boat ramp for easy access, so bring your boat, kayak, or canoe for a day on the water.
3. Swimming
The park has a designated swimming cove where visitors can cool off in the lake. It’s a great spot to relax by the water and enjoy a swim during the warmer months.
4. Camping
Eisenhower State Park is an excellent spot for camping, with options for RVs, tents, and even screened shelters. The park provides various campsites with amenities such as electricity, water, and restrooms, making it perfect for families or groups.
5. Geocaching
Geocaching is a fun, adventurous activity at Eisenhower State Park, where you use GPS coordinates to find hidden caches throughout the park. It’s a great way to explore the area and enjoy a modern-day treasure hunt.
6. Rock Climbing
The park has several areas with limestone cliffs perfect for rock climbing. Visitors can climb along the bluffs overlooking Lake Texoma, providing both an exhilarating experience and stunning views.
7. Picnicking
With many picnic areas scattered throughout the park, you can enjoy a meal with friends or family while taking in the scenic beauty. Many picnic spots have tables, grills, and shelters available for use.
8. Wildlife Watching
Eisenhower State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great destination for birdwatching and spotting local animals such as deer, rabbits, and armadillos. Bring your binoculars for a chance to see some of the park’s diverse species.
9. ATV/Off-Roading
The park features a designated ATV and off-road vehicle trail for visitors who want to enjoy some off-roading. It’s a popular activity for those seeking a bit of adventure while exploring the park’s terrain.
10. Scenic Overlooks
Don’t miss the scenic overlooks scattered throughout the park. These spots offer panoramic views of Lake Texoma and the surrounding hills, making them perfect for photography or simply relaxing and taking in the natural beauty.
FAQ’s
Does Eisenhower State Park allow dogs?
Yes! We love bringing our dog with us when we’re exploring Texas State Parks. Just remember that dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
And you are responsible for picking up after their pets to keep the park clean. And dogs are not allowed inside buildings or the swimming areas.
Does Eisenhower State Park have showers?
Yes, Eisenhower State Park has showers available for campers and visitors. The park offers several restroom facilities with hot showers located near the camping areas. These facilities are well-maintained and accessible to guests staying in tent or RV campsites, providing a comfortable and convenient way to freshen up after a day of outdoor activities.
Can you swim in Eisenhower State Park?
Yes, you can swim at Eisenhower State Park! The park features a designated swimming cove along the shores of Lake Texoma, offering visitors a great spot to cool off during the warmer months. The swimming area is located in a natural setting with a rocky shoreline, so it’s a good idea to wear water shoes for comfort.
Keep in mind that there are no lifeguards on duty, so swimming is at your own risk. It’s important to stay within designated areas and follow safety guidelines while enjoying the water.
Do I need a fishing license for Eisenhower State Park?
Yes, you will generally need a Texas fishing license to fish at Eisenhower State Park if you’re fishing from a boat or anywhere else outside of the park’s designated shore areas.
However, no fishing license is required if you are fishing from the shore or a pier within the boundaries of a Texas state park, including Eisenhower State Park. This is part of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s initiative to encourage fishing by making it easier for visitors to fish in state parks.
So, if you plan to fish from the shore in the park, you’re good to go without a license! If you’re fishing from a boat or outside the park boundaries, be sure to obtain a valid Texas fishing license.
Final Thoughts about Eisenhower State Park
We love taking our dog exploring with us when we can and Eisenhower State Park was a great weekend trip. Enjoy the scenic drive north to Lake Texoma and have a great time exploring Eisenhower State Park!
Have you been before? Let me know in the comments below!
XOXO,
Katie
More Texas Adventures
We’ve taken Hank to Dinosaur Valley State Park and had a chance to explore Glen Rose, Texas.
When we still had Colt with us, we took both our boys on a trip to Caddo Lake. Even a short trip to Lake Mineral Wells is worth a visit!
We’re always on the lookout for dog-friendly weekend trips.
And if you’re looking for something fun to do with your dog within the Metroplex, check out my list of dog swim days at multiple waterparks. We go to the NRH20 Doggie Beach bash almost every year!
