South Lakes Park

Park Overview

Sprawling across 187.29 acres in Denton, Texas, South Lakes Park is a breath of fresh air for outdoor enthusiasts. This expansive city park offers a variety of attractions, from serene trails to playgrounds where kids can spend hours playing.

Trails and Pathways

There's a 2.37-mile concrete trail that meanders through the landscape, great for getting some exercise. The smooth surface is excellent for not just walking and jogging, but also for wheeled adventures like rollerblading and skating.

If you prefer a more natural feel beneath your feet, the 0.85-mile soft-surface trail offers a pleasant alternative. Nature lovers will appreciate the wooded areas with hiking and mountain biking trails that have been recently spruced up by the Parks & Recreation department - they've done a nice job making these accessible while preserving the natural vibe.

Water Features and Fishing

The lakes at South Lakes Park aren't just pretty to look at - they're functional too! Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line from several well-positioned piers within the park.

What's especially cool is that the park participates in the Texas Parks and Wildlife's Neighborhood Fishin' program. The south pond gets regular deliveries of catfish and seasonal rainbow trout, making it an easy spot to introduce kids to fishing or just enjoy some quiet time with your rod. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife - ducks and turtles are regulars, and you might be lucky enough to spot some egrets or American White Pelicans dropping by for a visit.

Family Amenities

The Eureka 2 Playground is a hit with families - imagine a wooden castle complete with plastic slides and swings that will transport your little ones to a world of imagination. Parents can breathe easy knowing the playground is fully fenced with a single entrance/exit, and there's plenty of shade to keep everyone cool during those hot Texas days.

Kids of all ages flock to the zipline and tire swing, often forming lines for these popular attractions. They're definitely worth the wait!

When hunger strikes, you can find 78 picnic tables, 12 grills, and 4 pavilions scattered across the park. Planning a gathering? Some pavilions even have electrical outlets - handy for those birthday parties or family reunions.

Sports Facilities

The active set will appreciate the variety of sports facilities. There are tennis courts (with some conveniently marked for pickleball), a full basketball court for pickup games, and soccer goals for impromptu matches.

Fancy some beach vibes without the drive to the coast? The sand volleyball court lets you dig your toes in and spike to your heart's content.

Amenities and Accessibility

You can find the basics well-covered with clean restrooms, drinking water, and plenty of parking. The paved paths make the park wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy what South Lakes has to offer.

On weekends, you might spot food vendors like ice cream trucks in the parking area - a welcome sight after working up an appetite outdoors.

Dog owners, take note: there are 3 dog stations around the park to help keep the grounds clean. Just remember that your four-legged friends need to stay leashed during your visit.

Community Use

South Lakes Park is popular for community events and celebrations throughout the year. It does get pretty busy on weekends, so if you're looking for a more peaceful experience, try visiting on a weekday.

During the holiday season, the Christmas light display transforms the park into a magical winter wonderland that's worth bundling up for.