Wichita Falls is located in North Texas, in the northeast corner of the state’s panhandle region. It’s just a 17-minute drive to the Oklahoma state line, earning it the nickname “Gateway to Texas.” Wichita Falls is an ideal destination for nature lovers because of its many parks and natural attractions. Here are some of the best nature spots around Wichita Falls.
River Bend Nature Center
This environmental education center sits on 20 acres of lavish landscape and hosts ecological attractions such as a dedicated garden for children, nature trails, wetlands, a nature gift shop, and a butterfly conservancy. It’s the perfect place to visit if you want to learn about the native flora and fauna in Wichita Falls. You can also take a picnic or walk around and see what nature offers.
The top attraction at the River Bend Nature Center is the Ruby N. Priddy Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. It comprises a modern glass structure that’s home to thousands of native butterflies, more than 100 native plant species, turtles, quail, and prairie dogs.
Lucy Park and the Falls
Lucy Park sits at a bend in the Wichita River. It comprises big pecan and cottonwood trees and a massive pond area that give the park its rustic feel and natural splendor. Lucy Park also has a disc golf course and playgrounds to keep everyone busy, including your young ones. You’ll also encounter an attractive swinging bridge you can follow to cross the Wichita River and stroll the lovely trail that leads to the Falls.
The Falls are that park’s gorgeous multilevel, man-made waterfall that was erected to replace the city’s initial falls after they were destroyed by floods in the 1800s. They provide a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy in the tranquility of the cascading water.
Lake Kickapoo
Lake Kickapoo is located about 25 miles from Wichita Falls and is a superb destination for anglers. You’ll be amazed at the range of fish species in these waters. If you’re a fishing fanatic, you’ll enjoy catching the different species that are present year-round. Alternatively, you can hire a boat and travel around the lake to see the wonderful scenery surrounding it. The lake was developed in the 1940s and was named after the Kickapoo — the area’s indigenous inhabitants.
Lake Arrowhead State Park
Lake Arrowhead State Park boasts more than 2 miles of walking trails and 5 miles of multiuse trails that bisect its grounds. It’s a great place to explore the outdoors and view the abundant flora and fauna in Wichita Falls. You can use the trails for jogging, hiking, and horseback riding, swim in the lake, bird watch, water ski, or find the perfect camping spot. Visitors can also simply relax by the shores of the lake and enjoy the calm environment.
Lake Arrowhead is a great fishing spot where anglers can catch bass, crappie, catfish, sunfish, and more, depending on the time of year. Set up shop on one of the park’s two piers, or find a pleasant place to cast your line from shore.
Coyote Ranch Resort
Coyote Ranch Resort is a massive resort complex in Wichita Falls. Its campground has many activities for families, including a splash pool and mud wrestling. It’s a kid-friendly location that’s ideal for vacations, weddings, and family reunions. Some activities you can enjoy here include swimming, fishing, bird watching, picnicking, and camping. Guests also have access to jumping pillows, miniature golf, paintball, and laser tag. Coyote Ranch Resort has tons of activities for children and the entire family.
Holliday Creek Trail
The Holliday Creek Trail is a popular destination for avid walkers. It starts at the upper end of Lake Wichita and stretches in different directions throughout the area before looping back to the beginning of the trailhead. The Wichita Falls and Holliday Creek Trails provide a lovely way to experience the local flora and fauna. It also features exciting attractions such as a man-made mountain. If you love exploring the outdoors, you can’t miss visiting these trails.
The Wee-Chi-Tah Off-Road Trail
This off-road trail is a 13-mile path that comprises drops, bridges, and switchbacks. The well-marked walking and biking trail stretches across gorgeous terrain; you’ll even encounter a waterfall along the way. Its detours along the technical sections present exciting terrain for mountain bikers of all ages and levels. The trail has orange ribbons and marked arrows to help bikers stay on course. The Wee-Chi-Tah offers a wonderful opportunity for nature lovers to explore the environment on two wheels.
Kell House Museum
The Kell family built this house in 1909, and today it displays the rich history of Wichita Falls as a museum. Its unique features include a Victorian-inspired interior and neoclassical exterior. Inside the museum, you’ll see impressive exhibits showcasing historical costumes, ancient family furnishings, and decorative arts. One of the Kell House Museum’s popular attractions is its spectacular grounds and gardens, which you can tour if you schedule a visit.
Lake Wichita Park
Lake Wichita Park sits on 234 acres of land on the north side of the lake. It comprises a large, impressive park with scores of activities and attractions for both adults and children, including a modular playground and a model airplane landing strip. Its 2.6 miles of concrete trails are best for biking and hiking enthusiasts.
The park includes a fantastic picnic area where you can relax with your loved ones, plus a large picnic pavilion you can reserve for group events with up to 60 people. You’ll also find several lighted fields for softball, baseball, and football as well as basketball courts. Lake Wichita Park features an off-leash dog park and an 18-hole disk golf course. Boaters can enjoy a variety of water activities on the lake.
That caps off Herb Easley Chevrolet’s best spots in Wichita Falls for nature lovers. Did you agree with our list, or did we miss one of your favorites? Contact us to let us know, and we’ll add it to the list!
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