BONHAM STATE PARK
Bonham State Park is a 261-acre park located in Fannin County northeast of Dallas. It includes a 65-acre lake, rolling prairies, and woodlands.
Constructed in early 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the land was acquired in 1933 from the City of Bonham and was opened in 1936.
The park is situated in the Blackland Prairie Region of Texas. The terrain is dominated by grassland interspersed by woodlands. More luxuriant woodlands occur along water courses and the lake's shoreline. Although the park's grasslands are no longer pristine, they are recovering nicely and have small areas dominated by little bluestem and bushy bluestem. The woodlands are composed of Texas Oak, eastern red cedar, bois d'arc, and eve's necklace, with sugarberry, cottonwood, black willow, and green ash becoming more common along the creeks and lake shore. Numerous wildflowers and flowering shrubs cover the gently rolling prairie in the spring, and stands of cedar and mixed hardwoods provide a panorama of multicolored leaves in the fall.
Wildlife is limited because of the relatively small size of the park. However, the lake shoreline provides habitats for beaver, raccoon, opossum, and a number of visiting songbirds. Although a few woodland birds are permanent residents, visitor and migrant species outnumber the residents.
1. Bonham State Park offers a man-made lake for swimming.
2. The park's 65-acre lake is perfect for cooling off in the Texas heat.
3. Swimming is unsupervised, so caution and personal safety measures are advised.
4. Life jackets are recommended when swimming or participating in water activities at the park's lake area.
5. There aren't any designated swim areas; visitors can enjoy open-water swimming anywhere within the large body of water.
Enjoy fishing in a 65-acre lake, home to largemouth bass, catfish and crappie. Fishing gear is available for rent.
Bonham State Park is located near Bonham, Allen and Mckinney
Bonham State Park offers picnic tables, grills and a group pavilion for picnicking. You can also enjoy fishing or swimming nearby.
Be aware, the park offers a 3.2-mile trail for biking enthusiasts of all levels to enjoy.
Remember that this location's terrain is moderately hilly and can be challenging but rewarding for bikers.
The path winds around a picturesque lake, providing beautiful views; however caution should always be exercised near water bodies.
Helmets are strongly recommended as safety precautions on these trails due to uneven surfaces and occasional wildlife encounters.
Ensure your bike is in good condition before embarking on any ride here because there aren't repair facilities available onsite.
It's important you respect other users' space while sharing multi-use paths with walkers or runners too.
Always stay within marked areas since straying off could lead into potentially dangerous territory like dense woods or private property.
Note: The park does not provide bikes so ensure you bring yours along if planning to cycle during your visit.
Nearby attractions include the Eisenhower State Park, Eisenhower Birthplace and Sam Bell Maxey House State Historic Sites. Bonham attractions include Sam Rayburn Memorial Library, named in honor of Sam Rayburn, and the Sam Rayburn Home. Rayburn was a Fannin County native who held the office of U.S. Speaker of the House the longest period thus far. Also, the Fannin County Museum; Fort English Park; and the Fannin County Courthouse are located in Bonham.
To reach the park, go 1.5 miles southeast of Bonham on State Highway 78 to FM 271, then two miles southeast on FM 271; enter on Park Road 24. Bonham Location Map media download(PDF 22.6 KB)
Camping fees vary; entrance fee. For reservations call 512/389-8900. Current conditions including fire bans and water levels can vary from day to day.