Abilene State Park, a Texas State Park located near Abilene

ABILENE STATE PARK

ABILENE STATE PARK
150 Park Road 32
Tuscola, Texas 79562

Phone: 325-572-3204
Reservations: 512-389-8900

Abilene State Park, southwest of Abilene, in Taylor County, is among a low range of hills called the Callahan Divide, in the extreme western portion of North Central Texas. Acquired in 1933 by deed from the City of Abilene, the park's total acreage is 529.4.

Nature of the Area

Abilene is in a semi-arid region of short prairie grass, brushland, and wooded stream valleys of mesquite, juniper, cedar, native pecan, elm, live oaks, hackberry, Texas red oak, red bud, and various other plants, and wildflowers.

Wildlife observation and photography include white-tailed deer, raccoon, armadillo, fox, squirrel, cottontail rabbit, and a large variety of birds including Mississippi kite, roadrunner, cardinal, hummingbird, mockingbird, and many others. Popular fish include bass, crappie, catfish, and perch.

History of the Area

Original park construction was done by the Civilian Conservation Corps (C.C.C.) in the early 1930's. A portion of the official Texas longhorn herd and one buffalo are located on site. Comanches frequented what is now the park, using the groves of native pecan trees as campgrounds, much like the present park's picnic area.

Camping

There are developed campsites with water nearby with a table, a grill, individual site parking; campsites with water; campsites with water and electricity; a group trailer area (sites with water and electricity); large trailer sites with water and electricity; a one-mile nature trail; trailer dump stations; and screened shelters. Special rates are available; seasonal camping fees December through February.

Swimming

The swimming pool and concession are open Thursday - Sunday, from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Pool hours are 11 AM - 7 PM. The Swimming pool is available for rental - inquire at the park headquarters. There is no fee for swimming with paid entry. The park staff operates a Texas State Park Store where they sell ice, T-shirts, caps, wildlife posters, and other items.

Fishing

You can enjoy fishing in a scenic pond, stocked with catfish and trout. A valid Texas Fishing License is required.

Location

Abilene State Park is located near Abilene

Picnicking

1. Abilene State Park offers numerous picnic tables throughout the park.
2. There are shaded areas for comfortable picnicking.
3. Picnic sites with grills and fire rings are available.
4. Some picnic spots overlook Lake Abilene or Buffalo Wallow Pond.
5. Group pavilion can be reserved for larger gatherings, includes a kitchen area and restrooms nearby.

Birding

Birdwatchers can spot species like the Painted Bunting, Vermilion Flycatcher and Scissor-tailed Flycatcher. The park is home to over 200 bird species including migratory birds such as warblers during springtime. Birding trails are available for enthusiasts with a variety of habitats represented from woodland areas to lake shores. Visitors may also see waterfowl on Lake Abilene or Buffalo Wallow Pond in winter months.

Area Attractions

Fort Griffin State Park and Historic Site; and Buffalo Gap, which was the original Taylor County Seat (1878) and one of the early frontier settlements through which passed the famous Butterfield Stage Route (also called the Southern Overland Mail Route). (Buffalo Gap was also on the Western or Goodnight Loving Trail over which pioneer Texas cattlemen drove their herds to the Kansas railhead. This traffic is understandable, considering Buffalo Gap lies at a natural pass through a chain of hills.) Other nearby points of interest include Lake Abilene, the Grace Cultural Center with the Abilene Fine Arts Museum, Historical Museum, and Children's Museum; Paramount Theater; Abilene Zoological Gardens; Dyess Air Force Base's vintage aircraft; Buffalo Gap Historic Village; and a monthly art walk in downtown Abilene.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews

June 4 by jayme

a beautiful place to go camping!! we love it there and the swiming pool is clean and lots of fun!!

October 7 Peaceful by Harry

Great place to come out and relax. Trails and a bird blind are enjoyable. Great swimming pool in season! Helpful staff.

October 5 by Nell Copeland

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Directions

To reach the park, travel 16 miles southwest of Abilene, through Buffalo Gap, on FM 89, then on Park Road 32 to the park entrance.

Current conditions and fire bans can vary from day to day. For more details, contact the park.

Texas State Parks

Texas State Parks