Most adventure seekers in DFW are familiar with Glen Rose, Tx and its main attraction Dinosaur Valley State Park. What most don’t know is that about 30 minutes before you get there you pass right by Cleburne State Park, a less crowded and equally beautiful landscape right off highway 67. Just about an hour away from DFW, Cleburne is perfect for a single day trip, or a weekend getaway. And did I mention there’s a waterfall?

With 13 miles of heavily forested trails there is no shortage of sights to see here, and there are options for all levels of age and skill. The Spillway Trail is just over a half mile one way and leads to the impressive 3-tiered limestone dam that was built by the CCC. If you’re traveling with little ones, this is a perfect easy option with a rewarding view at the end.

After a morning on the trails, the 116-acre spring fed lake offers more opportunity for exploring or relaxing. Take a canoe, kayak, or paddle board out on the water. Cool off with a dip in the swimming area. Try your luck at a catch off the fishing pier. Or simply enjoy a scenic picnic under the trees.

If one day here isn’t enough for you, reserve one of the parks many campsites for a night or two. They have several options so any level of camper can be comfortable. If camping isn’t your style though, head into town for a room at the historical Liberty Hotel.

No matter where you lay your head at night, a trip into town offers even more fun for the family. Check out the Texas Children’s Museum for an interactive learning experience or catch a game at The Depot – Home of the Cleburne Railroaders, a minor league baseball team that promises a major good time.

Cleburne State Park holds a lot of nostalgia for me, it’s a place I grew up going with family and I’ll always cherish the memories of long youthful weekends here with my cousins, aunts, and uncles. It’s a place that I can go back to time and time again to show off and share my love for it with friends and their kids. It’s a place I can go alone to find peace and comfort. It’s a place that I hope you can enjoy as much as I do.

Learn more about Cleburne State Park here >>

Other area attractions include:

-Cleburne Railroad Museum

-Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum & and Big Bear Native American Museum

-Gone With the Wind Museum

-J.N. Long Cultural Arts Complex

This article was written by Sarah De Leon. You can find more helpful adventure tips and tricks on Sarah’s Instagram @the_lost_lion_adventures