Natural Beauty, Colorful History

Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway sits in the heart of cattle country, near what was once a popular health resort. You will love the area’s history and scenery, but you’ll also enjoy the park’s outdoor amenities:  a lake, a rock climbing area, and miles of trails. We are just 45 minutes west of Fort Worth – c’mon over!

Things to Do

On land, you can camp, hike, bike, ride your own horses, geocache, rock climb, or relax by the lake. On the lake, you can swim (no lifeguards), fish or boat. Rent our amphitheater or group hall for your next gathering.

Camping

Stay at one of our campsites or screened shelters. We also have 20 equestrian campsites.

Note: This county is under a quarantine to prevent the spread of the emerald ash borer to other areas of the state. Moving firewood is restricted. Please buy firewood where you burn it to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.

Boating

Lake Mineral Wells is a 640-acre lake with a boat ramp. Bring your own boat or rent one at the park. Canoe, kayak and paddle board rentals are available from our park concessionaire T & A Adventure Outfitters. No skiing, tubing or jet skis.

Fishing

Fish here for catfish, crappie, sunfish and largemouth bass. Choose from six fishing piers scattered around the lake. You do not need a fishing license at this park.

• We loan rods, reels and tackle boxes through the Tackle Loaner Program. 
• Fishing and lake information
• Fishing Tip Sheet | PDF 
• Water Safety

Exploring

Park trails (12.8 miles) range from easy to challenging, from lakeside to scenic Cross Timbers trails. Or set out on the 20-mile Trailway, with its flat grades and gentle curves.

The Trailway and most of the park trails are open to hikers, bikers and horseback riders. Trails may close during wet weather. Contact the park on the day of your visit to check on trail closures.

Rock Climbing

Penitentiary Hollow is one of the few natural rock climbing venues in North Texas. Climbers and rappellers must check in at headquarters. For your safety, bouldering and free-climbing are not allowed.

• Learn more about climbing at Penitentiary Hollow.
• Download our Rock Climbing Route Map | PDF

Get Involved

We need your help! Check our Volunteer page or ask at park headquarters.

Support state parks by donating to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation.

Ranger Programs

We offer a wide variety of programs, including Kids’ Wilderness Survival, cowboy history through music and poetry, astronomy, wildflower walks, and more.

• Check the Events page to see the program schedule.
• Call the park to arrange a nature program for your group.
• Visit the Nature and History pages to learn more about the park.
• Download the Interpretive Guide to Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway | PDF.

Kids

Become a Junior Ranger!

• Borrow an Explorer Pack loaded with tools for exploring the park.
• Pick up a free Junior Ranger Activity Journal; complete tasks to earn a badge.

Area Attractions

Mineral Wells is the official Wellness Capital of Texas. Immerse yourself in nature, activate your senses, and improve your state of mind during your stay. Visit Clark Gardens, Mineral Wells Fossil Park, National Vietnam War Museum, The Famous Mineral Water Company, Crazy Water Hotel, local spas and the downtown shopping district..

On the other end of the Trailway, visit Weatherford (known as the Peach Capital of Texas) to see the Museum of the Americas, Doss Heritage and Culture Center, Chandor Gardens  and the downtown shopping district.