12 Parks and Trails Within 60 Miles of Waco, Texas

1. Cameron Park (In Waco)

• Why Visit? One of the largest urban parks in Texas, featuring hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and river access.
• Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and picnicking.
• Website: Cameron Park

2. Waco Mammoth National Monument (5 miles northwest)

• Why Visit? A fossil site showcasing prehistoric mammoth remains.
• Activities: Hiking, guided tours, and paleontology education.
• Website: Waco Mammoth National Monument

3. Lake Waco Wetlands (10 miles west)

• Why Visit? A protected wetland area with diverse bird and wildlife species.
• Activities: Birdwatching, hiking, and nature photography.
• Website: Lake Waco Wetlands

4. Mother Neff State Park (30 miles southwest)

• Why Visit? One of Texas’ first state parks, featuring limestone cliffs and scenic trails.
• Activities: Hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
• Website: Mother Neff State Park

5. Brazos Park East (5 miles north)

• Why Visit? A riverfront park with great views of the Brazos River and trails.
• Activities: Walking, biking, disc golf, and fishing.
• Website: Brazos Park East

6. Lake Whitney State Park (40 miles northwest)

• Why Visit? A large, scenic lake perfect for boating, fishing, and camping.
• Activities: Swimming, hiking, and fishing.
• Website: Lake Whitney State Park

7. Lacy Point Nature Trail (10 miles west)

• Why Visit? A quiet nature escape with wooded trails and lake views.
• Activities: Hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
• Website: Lacy Point

8. Tonkawa Falls (35 miles northwest, Crawford)

• Why Visit? A hidden gem with a natural waterfall and swimming hole.
• Activities: Swimming, hiking, and photography.
• Website: Tonkawa Falls

9. Meridian State Park (50 miles north)

• Why Visit? A small, peaceful park with a spring-fed lake and hiking trails.
• Activities: Hiking, swimming, and fishing.
• Website: Meridian State Park

10. Tehuacana Creek Wildlife Management Area (20 miles east)

• Why Visit? A protected wildlife habitat with scenic hiking trails.
• Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography.
• Website: Tehuacana Creek WMA

11. Fort Parker State Park (50 miles northeast)

• Why Visit? A historic park with trails, a lake, and a reconstructed fort.
• Activities: Kayaking, hiking, and history tours.
• Website: Fort Parker State Park

12. Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge (60 miles southwest)

• Why Visit? A beautiful hill country refuge protecting endangered bird species.
• Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography.
• Website: Balcones Canyonlands

These parks and trails highlight the natural beauty of Central Texas, from lush riverfronts to peaceful lakes and wildlife refuges. Whether you're looking for hiking, camping, or a quiet nature retreat, there's something for everyone near Waco! 🚀🌿