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Special Event

The park is hosting a special event on Saturday, Aug. 16. Most park roads, facilities, campsites and day-use areas will be closed to vehicles from 7 a.m. to noon. We recommend that you visit after the event concludes.

Utility Work

Utility poles will be replaced throughout the park beginning Monday, July 14, 2025. This project is expected to last about one month. During this time, expect brief power outages lasting 20-30 minutes. While uncommon, some longer outages may occur. 

Please use caution around utility trucks and workers and avoid work zones for everyone’s safety.

Closures

June 27, 2025 - The yurts are closed for July and August. The AC units cannot keep the yurts cool during these months. 

May 28, 2025 - The swimming pool is closed for the 2025 season due to construction. 

March 1, 2025 - Boat ramps are closed, and kayak rentals are not available due to the low lake level. 

Contact the park or check back for updates.

Park Closed

May 1, 2025 - The park is closed for development. Opening date has not been set. Check back for updates.

Reservations Recommended

Jan. 1, 2024 - We strongly encourage you to purchase day passes in advance for the summer months, weekends, school breaks and holidays. Day passes often sell out throughout the summer.

Online reservations for overnight stays close at 4:30 p.m. 

Park Closure

The interior of the park will be closed from Wednesday, Oct. 1, through 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025, for wildlife management activities.

Sauceda Ranger Station

Sauceda Ranger Station hours vary and limited services are available. Shower and restrooms are available 24/7.

• Check in for camping and day passes at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.
• Call either of these sites or email us with questions.
• Souvenirs and concessions are only available at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.

Check back for updates. 

Trail Closures

July 19, 2025 - The Herron Hideaway Trail around Little Alum Creek is closed for resource management work. 

Lake Closure

March 1, 2025 - The main lake remains closed to allow plants to re-establish after construction. Fishing is available at Lake Mina. 

Check here for updates or contact the park for more information.

Park Closure

The interior of the park will be closed from Wednesday, Oct. 1, through 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025, for wildlife management activities.

Sauceda Ranger Station

Sauceda Ranger Station hours vary and limited services are available. Shower and restrooms are available 24/7.

• Check in for camping and day passes at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.
• Call either of these sites or email us with questions.
• Souvenirs and concessions are only available at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.

Check back for updates. 

Restroom Closure

Aug. 6, 2025 - The CCC restrooms are closed due to pumphouse issues. 

Burn Ban

June 24, 2024 - No wood or charcoal fires are allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane) for cooking.

Water Contaminant Notice

May 16, 2025 - The park uses water provided by the City of Big Spring. The city has issued a notice that its water exceeds 'Maximum Containment Level' of trihalomethanes. Learn more about this contaminant on the city's website. 

Check back for updates.

Burn Ban

Aug. 14, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No ash-producing fires (wood or charcoal) are allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves for cooking.

Check back for updates.

Road Construction

Jan. 6, 2025 - Road construction in the park has begun. The project may last through August 2025. During this time, various sections of roadway will be closed or under repair. Please observe warning signs for your safety.

Hydrilla Alert

July 12, 2024 - The lake is infested with hydrilla, an invasive plant that creates large mats of vegetation across the surface of the water. We are working on controlling and removing the hydrilla, but it can affect swimming, fishing and boating. 

Please remember to always clean, drain and dry your boat!

Check back for updates or contact the park for more information. 

Utilities Work

July 1, 2025 - Utility work will be underway in the park through early September. Watch for road crews and observe signs for their and your safety.

Check back for updates. 

Visiting the Park

• We recommend reserving day passes for weekends and holidays. If your plans change, please modify or cancel your reservation so someone else can visit.
• Trails close for wet weather and maintenance. Call the park or check our Facebook page for updates before visiting.
• Argentine ants have been identified in some of our campsites. These invasive ants do not sting. Be prepared to treat around your vehicle and camping equipment. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is working to reduce the number of ants without harming the park's natural resources.  

Check back for updates or contact the park for more information.

Boating Notices

June 25, 2025 - Due to very low lake levels:

• Exercise extra caution when operating watercraft on the lake. We recommend only using kayaks or bank fishing.
• Exercise caution while launching or removing watercraft at the Calliham Boat Ramp. 
• The following boat ramps are closed:
  • South Shore
  • Hwy. 99
  • Mason Point

Contact the park for more information.

River Access

Aug. 9, 2025 - The Spicewood day-use area and the boat ramp are open.

The boat ramp is for loading and unloading only; don't block access for other boaters. Please do not park on the grass. Make reservations online before your arrival as parking is limited.

Flooding Closures

Aug. 9, 2025 - The following areas are closed due to flood damage: 

• River Trail
• Dogleg Canyon Trail
• Spicewood Springs Trail
• Spicewood Canyon Trail
• A Portion of Lemons Ridge Pass Trail
• River Group Site
• Campsites 1-25
• River Backcountry Sites 1-8

Trails not listed above remain open. A 0.5-mile section of the park road past the Windmill Trailhead has been reduced to one lane. Please slow down, use caution, and obey all traffic signs. 

Follow all posted signage, barricades, and directions for your safety. Ask park staff for a map showing closed areas. Please contact the park for more details.

Heat Warning

May 19, 2025 - Carry plenty of water for you, your family and your pets during the hot summer months. Experts recommend one liter of water per person per hour of activity. Water spigots are available in the campground. Many of our trails are rocky and unshaded; they get very hot on summer days. 

Reservations Recommended

We highly recommend making day pass or camping reservations before visiting. Reserve online or by calling 512) 389-8900 to guarantee entry.

Contact the park for more information.

Weather Closures

May 8, 2025 - At the South Sulphur Unit, part of the Buggy Whip Hike and Equestrian Trail system is closed due to flood damage. Lonesome Dove, Rabbit Run and Pioneer Pass loops are also closed. Little Bluestem Loop and the Coyote Run Hike and Bike Trail remain open.

Facility Closures

Aug. 1, 2025 - The Sunset Cove Day-use Area is closed through February 2026. Construction will be underway on a replacement fishing pier and other upgrades.

May 10, 2024 - The floating dock in the Heron Harbor Day-use Area at the South Sulphur Unit is closed due to damage. Fishing access from the wall is still open.

Trail Alert

Trails close to horseback riders after rainfall. Check conditions before you come by calling the park. 

Check back for updates to these alerts.

Drought Notice

July 18, 2025 - This area is under Stage 4 water restrictions. Please use water wisely when you visit. Consider bringing water with you. 

Closures

Aug. 11, 2025 - The boat ramp is closed due to low lake level.

Sept. 1, 2024 - The museum at park headquarters is closed for renovations.

Check back for updates.

Phone Outage

July 14, 2025 - Phones are out at the park. Please email us with questions. 

Check back for updates.

Burn Ban

March 1, 2025 - No wood fires are allowed. However, charcoal and containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane) are allowed for cooking. 

Closures

July 30, 2025 - A portion of Skyline Drive Trail, the Scenic Overlook and its parking lot are closed for repairs. 

Please observe closures for your safety.

Black Bear Restaurant

April 28, 2025 - The Black Bear Restaurant is now open for breakfast and lunch! Hours are 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday through Monday.

Check here for updates or contact the park for more information.

No Potable Water

Aug. 9, 2025 - Potable (drinkable) water is not available at the Dan Hughes Unit of the park. Bring water for drinking and cooking for your entire group when you visit. 

Burn Ban

Jan. 1, 2025 - No wood fires allowed. However, charcoal, compressed fire logs, and containerized fuels (i.e. propane) are allowed at all drive-up campsites.

Paddler Notices

Jan. 23, 2025 - The Baker's Crossing launch is closed due to low flow levels in Devils River. The San Pedro Point launch is still open.

Contact the park or check back for updates.

Trails & Tracks

Check for updates.

Reservations Recommended

We often reach capacity and highly recommend reservations for both camping and day use. Reserve passes online or by calling the customer service center before you visit.

Flooding Closures

Aug. 3, 2025 – Swim beach and Fossil Ridge fishing pier are closed.

Road Construction

March 14, 2025 - When visiting the park, please use Exit 72 off Highway 75 due to construction. 

Utility Closures

Aug. 14, 2023 - The restrooms in the Deer Haven camping loop are closed due to a water outage.

Feb. 18, 2025 - The restrooms and the dump station in the Armadillo Hill camping loop are closed due to utility work. Restrooms are available in other areas.

The Armadillo Hill camping loop will be closed Nov. 17-19, 2025. 

Call the park or check back here for updates.

Conserve Water

Please use water wisely when you visit. Bring your own drinking water or you can buy bottled water at headquarters.

Reservations Required

Advanced reservations for day passes and overnight stays are required on weekends, school breaks and holidays. While not required on regular weekdays, we usually reach capacity every day. Guarantee your entry by reserving passes online or calling the customer service center before you visit.

Trail Closures

Get trail status updates here, on our Facebook page, or on our X feed.

Road Construction

Oct. 12, 2024 - Roadwork is underway on FM 1015 next to the park's entrance. Expect lane closures and redirected traffic; use caution when entering and exiting the park. A temporary alternate entrance to the park is in place.

Check back for updates.

Boat Ramp Closure

July 3, 2025 - The boat ramp is closed due to the lake's low level. You can launch boats from shore.

Phone Issues

Jan. 15, 2025 - Our main phone line is experiencing issues. Please contact the park at (956) 848-5780.

Check back for updates.

Park Closure

The interior of the park will be closed from Wednesday, Oct. 1, through 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025, for wildlife management activities.

Sauceda Ranger Station

Sauceda Ranger Station hours vary and limited services are available. Shower and restrooms are available 24/7.

• Check in for camping and day passes at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.
• Call either of these sites or email us with questions.
• Souvenirs and concessions are only available at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.

Check back for updates. 

Construction Alert

Expect construction noise beginning Sept. 2 in the day-use, screen shelter and cabin areas and the water and electric camping loop. Nature Center renovations are expected to last through September 2026. Contact the park for details.

Fishing Piers Closed

Sept. 23, 2024 - Both fishing piers are closed for maintenance.

Check back for updates.

Reservations Recommended

Reservations are recommended (even for those with park passes). Reserve online or call the Customer Service Center before you visit. Spanish-speaking agents are available at the CSC. Carry your pass (either a printed or digital version) with you while in the park.

Trail Closures

Dec. 10, 2024 - Some boardwalks are closed due to flood damage. Please observe closure signs for your safety.

Check back for updates.

Construction Notice

July 21, 2025 - Work is underway on the road at the scenic overlook leading to Old Garner. Traffic is reduced to one lane, and hiking and biking are not allowed. Please proceed with caution, expect minor delays, and follow all posted signage.

Trails in this area are closed, including parts of the Madrone Trail, Blinn River Trail, and the lower portion of the CCC Entrance Road Trail.

Expect construction in the Pecan Grove camping area from Aug. 10 - 15. This construction may impact the road access to the Old Baldy trailhead.

Check back for updates; contact the park for more information.

Campsite Closures

The bayfront campsites on the west end of the island (sites 25-44) will be closed for improvements beginning May 2025. Expect maintenance equipment in the area. 

Water Conservation Alert

June 5, 2024 - Please use water sparingly for drinking, cooking, and in restrooms. Bring your own water or buy bottled water at headquarters.

Check back for updates.

Trails Updates

Check for trail closure updates.

Holiday Schedule

Feb . 7, 2025 - The park opens for extra days around some holidays. Check our 2025 Holiday Schedule for information. 

Burn Ban

Aug. 15, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No ash-producing fires (wood or charcoal) are allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves for cooking.

Conserve Water

Dec. 1, 2024 - Due to ongoing drought conditions, please use water wisely when you visit.

Check back for updates on these alerts.

Trail Updates

Trails may close in wet weather. Check for updates before visiting. 

Water Shortage

Nov. 7, 2024 - Water conservation measures are in place due to drought. Please bring enough water for your visit. Water is available at the campsites. Public restrooms and campground showers are available.

Due to water shortages, campsite availability is limited. Reservations are recommended; call (512) 389-8911.

Check back for updates.

Black Bear Restaurant

April 28, 2025 - The Black Bear Restaurant is now open for breakfast and lunch! Hours are 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday through Monday.

Contact the park or check back here for details.

Park Store Closure

The park store will be closed Aug. 25-29 for inventory. Boat rentals and concessions will not be available during this time.

Reservations Recommended

We strongly encourage you to make reservations in advance for weekends, school breaks and holidays. Day passes and camping sell out every weekend and holiday.

Check back for updates.

Park Hours

The park is open from 8 a.m. Fridays through 4:30 p.m. Mondays. It is closed the rest of the week.

Check back for updates.

Facility Closures

Dec. 31, 2024 - The park's crappie dock is closed, due to unsafe conditions. 

The Rec Hall, group lodges, cabins and Lakeside Trail will be closed for renovations starting on Aug. 18, 2025. Renovations are expected to take about 18 months.  

Check back for updates to these alerts.

Pier & Dock Closed

July 24, 2025 - The fishing pier and courtesy dock are closed.

Phone Outage

July 9, 2025 - Phones are down at the park. Email us with any questions. 

Utility Work

July 16, 2025 - Utility work is underway in the park. Observe signs and drive with caution around the work area.

Headquarters Hours

Jan. 3, 2025 - The park is open, but headquarters is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Pay fees online or use the self-pay kiosk if you visit on these days. 

Check back for updates to these alerts.

Boat Ramps Closed

Sept. 4, 2024 - Both boat ramps are closed due to low lake levels.

Contact the park or check back for updates.

Fishing/Boating Alerts

Feb. 16, 2024 - The Birch Creek fishing pier is closed due to damage. 

Camping Closure

Overnight camping will be closed at the Nails Creek Unit on Oct. 1-2, 2025, for a special event. Trails beyond the Rocky Point turnoff will also be closed.

Trailway Bridges Out

May 1, 2024 - Two bridges on the Trailway are washed out, one over Nails Creek and one over Yegua Creek near the Newman Bottom parking area. Please reach out to either Nails Creek or Birch Creek headquarters for more information before heading out on the Trailway.

Contact the park for more information or check back for updates to these alerts.

Twinkle Tour 2025

Twinkle 2025 will be held on Dec. 13, 2025. Camping reservations for Dec. 12–13, 2025 will open June 18, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. and must be made by phone at (903) 560-7123. Reservations will be handled directly by the park.

Firewood Quarantine

May 16, 2024 - This county is under a quarantine to prevent the spread of the emerald ash borer to other areas of the state. This means movement of firewood is restricted.

Please buy firewood where you burn it to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.

Call the park or check back here for updates.

Burn Ban

Aug. 12, 2025 - No wood or charcoal fires allowed. Containerized fuel stoves (i.e. propane) are allowed for cooking.

Closures

The park store will be closed Aug.13, 2025, but the headquarters office will remain open.

The playground will be closed Aug. 12 & 13, 2025 for improvements.

Check back for updates.

Construction Notice

Beginning April 20, 2025, the day-use area restrooms and the campground restrooms and showers will be closed for construction. Temporary restrooms and showers will be available. 

Check back for updates.

Store Closure

July 30, 2025 - The park store will be closed Monday, Aug. 18, through Friday, Aug. 22, 2025. All other areas of the park remain open. Pick up park maps and brochures outside the Visitors Center.

Argentine Ants

Argentine ants, an invasive species, have been identified in some campsites in the park. The ants do not sting.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is working with experts to reduce the ants without harming natural resources. Before leaving, thoroughly inspect your vehicle, RV, camping gear and other equipment; if you see the ants, please notify park staff immediately and they can offer guidance for treating. For park-specific questions, please contact the park at (903) 836-4336.

Unit Closure

Beginning Dec. 1, 2025, the Walnut Ridge Unit will be closed for a roadwork project. The closure includes all campsites, cabins, shelters, boat ramps, trails and restrooms. 

The Wildscape Garden and Education Center will remain open.

Check back for updates.

Reservations Recommended

We strongly encourage you to purchase day passes in advance for weekends, school breaks and holidays. Day passes sell out every weekend and holiday.

Check back for updates.

Construction Closures

Portions of the park will be closed for construction through October 2025. Areas closed include the commemorative mission, camping, fishing pond, El Camino Real access, day-use area and playground. 

The park will remain open during this time for day use with limited access to some hiking/biking trails and the Rice Family Log Cabin.

Contact the park for updates.

Closures 

July 6, 2025 - The lower part of the park is flooded and closed off to any through traffic. This area has been closed to the public since 2015. Texas 236 Highway is open. Please check the latest road conditions for the surrounding area.

Check back for updates. 

Roadway Project

June 20, 2025 - The road north of Fish Pass is undergoing improvements. Please observe signs for your safety. The road may be closed for periods, or road conditions may be rough.

Check back for updates.

Closures

June 9, 2025 - The Lakeside camping area restrooms are closed for renovations. Temporary restrooms and showers are set up at park host site #26.

Contact the park or check back for updates.

Flood Closures

Aug. 14, 2025 - Most trails are closed due to heavy rain damage. The following trails are open:

• Big Cave
• CCC
• Gooodnight Peak
• Triassic

Summer Trail Safety

• Temperatures in the canyon are often 5-10 degrees hotter than on the rim.  Outdoor activities during this time can be dangerous. Stay safe!
• Avoid hiking during the heat of the day.
• Stay on trails.
• Drink 1 liter of water per person, per mile.
• Hike with friends.
• The following trails will close from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on days when the National Weather Service issues a heat advisory. Please observe these closures for your safety.
• Lighthouse
• Comanche
• GSL
• Rock Garden
• Check local weather or contact the park for more information.

Check back for updates.

Park Closed for Construction

Jan. 1, 2025 - The park is closed to all public access as it is under construction Check back for updates. 

Burn Ban

Aug. 13, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. Ash-producing fires (wood or charcoal) are not allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves for cooking.

Closures

Oct. 22, 2024 - The North Loop Equestrian Trail and Duck Pond are closed. 

Reservations Recommended

Guarantee entrance by making reservations for day passes or campsites before visiting on weekends, school breaks and holidays. Permits often sell out for these busy times.

Check back for updates to these alerts. 

Closures

July 2, 2025 - The restrooms in the Shady Grove Loop are closed due to an issue with the sewer system. Restrooms at in other areas of the park are open.

Kayak Launch Closed

March 3, 2025 - Our ADA kayak launch is closed for repairs. 

Firewood Quarantine

May 16, 2024 - This county is under a quarantine to prevent the spread of the emerald ash borer to other areas of the state. This means movement of firewood is restricted.

Please buy firewood where you burn it to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.

Call the park or check back here for updates.

Park Closed

May 1, 2025 - The park is closed for development. An opening date has not been set. Check back for updates.

Trail Closures

June 25, 2025 - The Red trail is closed due to storm damage.

Check back for updates.

Trails Update

Check for trails updates.

Check back for updates.

Flood Closures

July 25, 2025 - The Bald Eagle and North Concho campgrounds are closed due to flood damage. 

All trails are open except for Bell's Trailhead, Shady, North Scenic Loop, and Lower Ghost Camp trails. Observe closure signs for your safety. 

We don't advise entering the lake due to debris and underwater currents.

Bridge Closure

March 22, 2025 - The Burkett Trail Bridge is closed. Do not cross the caution tape. Use the alternative creek crossing route on Burkett Trail. 

Sticker Bur Alert

We have lots of sticker burs in and around our campsites right now. Wear good shoes and be cautious with pets and children.

North Shore Gate Locked

Check in at the South Shore entrance (362 S. FM 2288) to get the gate code for the North Shore.

Check back for updates or contact the park for more information.

Beach Closures

Jan. 30, 2025 - Due to damage from high tides, a large washout about a mile down West beach is limiting vehicle access.

Oct. 10, 2024 - The East Beach is closed until further notice. 

Check back for updates.

Construction Closure

The Roadrunner Flat camping loop will be closed for construction beginning May 2025. Check back for updates. Contact the park for more information.

Tower Closed

May 14, 2025 - The John Jacob Observation Tower is closed for maintenance.

Check back for updates. 

Burn Ban

Aug. 13, 2025 - The park is under a burn ban. No ash-producing (wood or charcoal) fires are allowed. You may use containerized fuel stoves for cooking.

Construction Notices

Jan. 1, 2025 - Campgrounds, trails and bird blinds are open and accessible. 

• Construction continues on a replacement of the low-water crossing at the park's entrance. Access to the river for tubing, paddling, fishing and swimming is available. Watch for signs or ask park headquarters about temporary river access points. River portage around construction is clearly marked.
• Expect construction noise, construction traffic on the roadways, and possible road or lane closures at the park.

Check back for updates or contact the park for more information.

Special Events

Two trail running events will occur this fall. The park will be busier than usual on these dates.

• Saturday, Sept. 20 - expect heavy traffic on trails from 5 p.m. to midnight. 
• Saturday, Oct. 18 - expect heavy traffic on trails from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., or longer.

Check back for updates.

Bridge Closure

July 29, 2025 - The CCC road bridge is closed for repairs. All traffic, including RVs, must take the southbound road to access the boat ramp, southside day-use area, and all camping loops other than Cedar Point.

The northside day-use area, Post Oak picnic area, and Cedar Point camping loop are not affected by this closure. 

Check back for updates.

Area Closures

Jan. 29, 2025 - The swimming area and some campsites are closed due to hurricane damage.

Check back for updates.

Jan. 1, 2024 – The tram and tramway grounds are closed except for special events.