Lakeside Park

Introduction / Overview

For Texans seeking a serene and spacious outdoor retreat, Lakeside Park, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Hords Creek Lake in Coleman, TX, offers a truly delightful camping experience. This park is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, abundant wildlife, and well-maintained facilities that cater to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're pulling in with a large RV, setting up a tent, or looking for a comfortable screened shelter, Lakeside Park provides a tranquil setting amidst the natural beauty of Central Texas. It’s a place where the simple joys of camping come alive, from spotting local wildlife to enjoying a quiet evening by the fire. While the experience can vary with water levels, as is common with lake parks, the core appeal of Lakeside Park remains its dedication to providing a peaceful and enjoyable environment for all visitors. The park's commitment to spacious sites and communal gathering areas makes it particularly appealing for groups and families looking to connect with nature and each other. It’s a testament to the friendly staff and the inherent beauty of Hords Creek Lake, promising a refreshing escape from the daily grind for locals across Texas.

Location and Accessibility

Lakeside Park is conveniently located at 214 Friendship Park Rd, Coleman, TX 76834, USA, specifically situated on the picturesque Hords Creek Lake. This position in Coleman, Texas, places it within easy driving distance for many residents across the vast state, making it an accessible and attractive option for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. The park is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which typically ensures well-maintained access roads leading directly to the park entrance and within the campground itself. Once inside, the layout is designed for easy navigation to individual campsites, screened shelters, and pavilions. While the address is straightforward, campers should be aware of the specific location on Hords Creek Lake to best plan their arrival. The park’s setting, away from major urban centers, contributes to its quiet and peaceful ambiance, yet it remains reachable via established routes. This balance of rural tranquility and convenient accessibility makes Lakeside Park an ideal choice for Texans looking for a refreshing outdoor experience without excessive travel.

Services Offered

• Campsites with Electrical and Water Hookups: Many sites, such as T054, offer electrical connections (30 amp, with some sites specifically for 50 amp, which should be booked accordingly) and water hookups, providing convenience for RV and trailer campers. Each site typically has one regular household outlet with two plugs.
• Screened Shelters: Available for rent, these offer a comfortable and bug-protected alternative to tent camping, ideal for those seeking a balance of outdoor immersion and shelter.
• Group Pavilions: Larger covered pavilions are available for groups to rent, perfect for gatherings, family reunions, or events, providing communal gathering space.
• Permanent Shade Structures: Many campsites come equipped with permanent shade structures overhead, offering essential relief from the Texas sun.
• Cement Picnic Tables and Benches: Durable and convenient, cement picnic tables with benches are provided at each campsite for outdoor dining and relaxation.
• Fire Pits: Designated fire pits are available at campsites for campfires and cooking, subject to current fire restrictions.
• Playground: A dedicated playground area within the park provides entertainment for children, enhancing the family-friendly appeal.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: Pets are welcome in the park, provided they are kept on a 6-foot leash, allowing visitors to bring their furry companions.
• Restroom Facilities: Restrooms are available within the park, though some campsites may be a "fair ways" from them, suggesting that driving might be necessary for access, especially at night.
• Trash Disposal: While not explicitly detailed, Army Corps of Engineers parks typically provide designated waste disposal bins for campers.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park's natural setting and abundant wildlife, including deer and various bird species, are key offerings for nature enthusiasts.
• Friendly Staff: Reviews highlight the presence of friendly staff, contributing to a welcoming and supportive environment for campers.
• Online Reservation System (Implied): As an Army Corps of Engineers park, online reservation systems are typically available to book campsites, shelters, and pavilions.

Features / Highlights

• Spacious Campsites: A consistent highlight, the campsites are described as "spacious," providing ample room for trailers, tents, and comfortable outdoor living.
• Abundant Wildlife: The park is home to "abundant wildlife," including deer, offering fantastic opportunities for nature observation and photography.
• Picturesque Hords Creek Lake: The campground is situated on Hords Creek Lake, providing a scenic backdrop and opportunities for lake-related activities when water levels are normal.
• Variety of Accommodation Options: From full hookup RV sites to tent sites and screened shelters, the park caters to diverse camping preferences and comfort levels.
• Communal Group Areas: The park is designed to accommodate groups, with areas where multiple RVs can hook up together and enjoy shared communal gathering spaces.
• Supportive and Friendly Staff: The "friendly staff" is a recurring positive comment, enhancing the overall visitor experience with their helpfulness and welcoming demeanor.
• Abundance of Wildflowers: During certain seasons (e.g., May), the park is "sprinkled throughout with wildflowers," adding to its natural beauty.
• Opportunities for Fishing: Despite low water levels sometimes impacting motorized boating, fishing remains a popular activity, with visitors observed enjoying it.
• Walking and Biking Opportunities: The park's layout and natural setting lend themselves to pleasant walks and bike rides, providing gentle recreational options.
• Quiet Atmosphere: Overall, the park is described as "pretty quiet," especially when water activities are curtailed, offering a peaceful retreat.
• Permanent Site Amenities: The presence of permanent shade structures, cement picnic tables, and fire pits at each site adds to the convenience and comfort.
• Adaptability to Water Levels: While low water levels can impact water activities, the park still offers a valuable camping and nature experience, showcasing its adaptability.

Contact Information

Address: US Army Corps of Engineers - Hords Creek Lake, 214 Friendship Park Rd, Coleman, TX 76834, USA

Phone: (325) 625-2322

Mobile Phone: +1 325-625-2322

For the most current information regarding campsite availability, water levels at Hords Creek Lake (which can impact activities like swimming and motorized boating), fire restrictions, or to make reservations for campsites, screened shelters, or pavilions, it is highly recommended to contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers office for Hords Creek Lake directly at the provided phone numbers. Their friendly staff will be able to provide accurate and up-to-date details to help you plan your visit.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Texans, Lakeside Park at Hords Creek Lake in Coleman offers a wonderfully accessible and versatile outdoor destination that truly caters to a local desire for quality recreation. Its central location makes it a manageable drive for many across the state, ensuring that a peaceful escape is never too far away. The park's commitment to spacious, well-equipped campsites, complete with essential electrical and water hookups, makes it an ideal spot for RVers, while the availability of comfortable screened shelters and tent sites broadens its appeal. Locals will particularly appreciate the "abundant wildlife" and the tranquil atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature. The option for group rentals, including pavilions, provides excellent opportunities for family reunions and social gatherings, fostering community in a natural setting. While water levels at Hords Creek Lake can influence certain activities, the park consistently provides a strong foundation for fishing, walking, and enjoying the outdoors. The positive feedback on the "friendly staff" underscores a welcoming environment, making every visit a pleasant one. Lakeside Park exemplifies how a well-managed public park, like those by the Army Corps of Engineers, can serve as a vital local resource, offering a blend of comfort, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities that keep Texans coming back for more.