2 days Ago By Natalie Petrovich
Central Texas is slated to expand its state park repertoire with over 3,000 acres dedicated to the great outdoors, following a recent land acquisition by the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. As reported by FOX 7 Austin, the state has snapped up 1,100 acres of terra firma in Lampasas and Burnet counties for the development of a new state park. This patch of land, in combination with an adjacent 2,000 acres already under Burnet County's belt, is poised to give nature enthusiasts a fresh destination for their recreational escapades.
The land expanse, which boasts a stretch of the Colorado River and Yancey Creek's unique features, is positioned opposite the already sought-after Colorado Bend State Park. Justin Rhodes, Deputy Director of Texas State Parks, couldn't contain his excitement in an interview with FOX 7 Austin, remarking on the river's beauty and the prospect of providing Texans with more recreational opportunities. Despite the park's anticipated opening in four years, with some areas possibly available to visitors in two years, the name for this new haven of nature has yet to be unveiled.
Funding for this ambitious project is secured, with money pouring in from the prolific Centennial Parks Conservation Fund—a hefty one-billion-dollar pot approved by voters in 2023, dedicated to birthing new state parks. According to the official FOX 7 Austin report, the upcoming park is not just about scenic views but also about enhancing visitor amenities, potentially including cabins, RV sites, and cottages, a stark contrast to its sister park's minimalistic charm.Beyond FOX 7 Austin's insights, the State Parks Organization revealed that the newly acquired land also encompasses limestone bluffs and multiple natural springs, enriching the landscape's ecological vibrancy.
"The voters of Texas also deserve a huge thank you for saying ‘yes’ to the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund, which will make the development of this park possible," TPWD Executive Director David Yoskowitz expressed in a statement as per a State Parks Organization report, while also giving kudos to the team behind the initiative.There's an eagerness to set the wheels in motion with Rodney Franklin, director of Texas State Parks, looking forward to catering to future generations who will have the opportunity to explore the site's post oak woodland and outdoor adventures. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will take several months to map out a recreation plan for the park.
Nonetheless, having secured its piece of Central Texas paradise, the blueprint for the next 100 years of Texas State Parks is well under development, heralding new recreational experiences for Texans and wilderness admirers alike..
