Situated on the cliffs of Lake Texoma, the Eisenhower State Park is a puptastic place to connect with nature with your furry best friend by your side. Just an hour north of Dallas, this 460-acre site draws nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts with its rocky shoreline bluffs, furrific lake views, diverse wildlife, and myriad recreational activities. It's a pawsome destination at any time of the year, but it's recommended to visit between March and November when the wildflowers are in bloom!
Adventurous pups will be pleased to know that there are over 4 miles of trails to explore at the Eisenhower State Park. Check out the 0.8-mile Armadillo Hill Trail for a journey through woodland, prairie, and lakeshore ecosystems. Stop by the Buttonbush Scenic Point to see some fossils, and pawse at the benches to watch for red-bellied woodpeckers, coyotes, and bobcats. Don't forget to pick up a trail guide at park headquarters so you can identify the various trees along the way. Bois d'arcs, cedar elms, and chinkapin oaks are just a few of those that you'll encounter.
If you and Fido are up for a longer hike, hit Ike's Hike and Bike Trail, which spans 3.2 miles and takes ruffly 4 hours to complete. Note that this trail includes a very rugged section that is best skipped by less experienced hikers. Wherever you go in the park, be sure to always keep your four-legged companion on a leash and clean up after them.Â
Other activities that you and your pooch can enjoy at Eisenhower are geocaching, picnicking, and camping. The park offers more than 150 campsites where you and Fido can sleep under the stars. Note that while canine visitors are welcome in most areas, they are not allowed on the swimming beach. Sorry, water-loving doggos!
For a barking good time in the great outdoors of North Texas, plan a visit to the Eisenhower State Park!