Lake Arrowhead State Park

Location and History

Lake Arrowhead State Park is located approximately 15 minutes south of Wichita Falls, Texas, off highways 281 and 287. The park covers 524 acres and borders the north shore of Lake Arrowhead, a 16,200-acre reservoir built primarily as a water source for the city of Wichita Falls and the surrounding area.

The park, which opened in 1970, sits in the Rolling Plains region of Texas. Once part of a vast prairie, the landscape has evolved over time.

Natural Environment

Today, the dominant tree in the park is honey mesquite, with other species including cottonwood, hackberry, and wild plum. The park features an ongoing prairie restoration project that includes controlled burns to maintain the ecosystem.

Visitors may encounter various animals, including white-tailed deer, coyotes, bobcats, and numerous bird species.

Water Recreation

Lake Arrowhead State Park offers a variety of recreational activities centered around the lake and its natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy fishing, with popular catches including crappie, bass, and catfish. The park provides multiple boat ramps, a lighted fishing pier, and a fish cleaning station.

Swimming is permitted in designated areas, though there is no lifeguard on duty.

Land Activities

For land-based activities, the park features approximately five miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. These trails wind through the park's diverse terrain, offering opportunities for nature study and wildlife observation.

Unique Features

The park also houses a unique feature: a working oil pumpjack within its boundaries. While this provides an interesting glimpse into the region's energy production, some visitors have noted that it can create noise that may be disruptive, particularly at night.