Bonham State Park

Copyright: Texas State Parks & Historical Sites Sunset at Bonham State Park

Constructed in early 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the land was acquired in 1933 from the City of Bonham and was opened in 1936.

Attractions - Attractions to this small 261-acre park are based around its 65-acre lake. The park is situated in the Blackland Prairie Region of Texas. The terrain is dominated by grassland interspersed by woodlands. More luxuriant woodlands occur along water courses and the lake's shoreline. Although the park's grasslands are no longer pristine, they are recovering nicely and have small areas dominated by little bluestem and bushy bluestem. The woodlands are composed of Texas Oak, eastern red cedar, bois d'arc, and eve's necklace, with sugarberry, cottonwood, black willow, and green ash becoming more common along the creeks and lake shore. Numerous wildflowers and flowering shrubs cover the gently rolling prairie in the spring, and stands of cedar and mixed hardwoods provide a panorama of multicolored leaves in the fall.

Wildlife is limited because of the relatively small size of the park. However, the lake shoreline provides habitats for beaver, raccoon, opossum, and a number of visiting songbirds. Although a few woodland birds are permanent residents, visitor and migrant species outnumber the residents.

Facilities include restrooms with and without showers; picnic sites (including one group picnic area); campsites with water and electricity; campsites with water; a group camp with barracks and a dining hall, which accommodates approximately 96 people (the facility is only rented as a single unit, not separately); an 11-mile trail for mountain biking and hiking; vending machines; a playground; a launching ramp; a boat dock; and a lighted fishing pier.

Nearby attractions include the Eisenhower State Park, Eisenhower Birthplace and Sam Bell Maxey House State Historical Parks. Bonham attractions include Sam Rayburn Memorial Library, named in honor of Sam Rayburn, and the Sam Rayburn Home. Rayburn was a Fannin County native who held the office of U.S. Speaker of the House the longest period thus far. Also, the Fannin County Museum; Fort English Park; and the Fannin County Courthouse are located in Bonham.

Camping fees vary; entrance fee. For reservations call 512/389-8900. Current conditions including fire bans and water levels can vary from day to day. For more details, call the park or Park Information at 1-800-792-1112.

Recreation - Recreational opportunities offered by the Bonham State Park includes boating, hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, picnicking and camping.

Climate - Bonham State Park is located at an elevation of 264 feet. Temperatures within the park range from a normal January minimum of 31 degrees and a maximum in July of 95 degrees. Current weather conditions can vary from day to day. For more details, call the park or Park Information at 1-800-792-1112.

Location - Bonham State Park is situated within the Pineywoods area of Texas. To reach the park, go 1.5 miles southeast of Bonham on State Highway 78 to FM 271, then two miles southeast on FM 271; enter on Park Road 24.