Legacy on the Lake
The CCC built dozens of structures at Lake Brownwood State Park.
By Karina Kumar

George Dudich, an interpreter at Lake Brownwood State Park, likes to say the park has a bit of everything, whether it's different habitats (prairie, woodland, desert), activities (hiking, fishing, swimming), or choice of lodging (campsites, cabins, lodges). His rationale certainly applies to structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Lake Brownwood is unique because it has the most of any park in Texas.
Established in 1933, in the midst of the Great Depression, the CCC formed part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal work relief program, giving opportunities for single men ages 18-25 to earn $30 a month ($25 of which went home to their families) while improving and building state and national parks and natural spaces.
The CCC built 28 of the 88 Texas state parks managed by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Buildings at Lake Brownwood include 20 different cabins and lodges, the grand staircase that goes up the hill from the lake and the rec hall that was famous for dance marathons in the 1930s. Most were built by CCC Company 872.
The three miles of waterfront on the shimmering lake, its historic charm and the plethora of campsites, cabins and lodges make it a prime destination. It's a perfect cool getaway in the heat of Texas summers or a cozy spot for a campfire during the winter months.
By the Numbers
Size: 1,406 acres |
Closest Town: Brownwood |
Year Opened: 1935 |
Busy Season: Summer for all facilities, weekends and holidays for cabins and lodges. |
Fun Fact: In 1942, part of the state longhorn herd was kept at Lake Brownwood. Legend has it that shortly after their arrival, the longhorns made a break for it, hopping right into the lake and swimming across to the other side. |
Three Hikes

Moderate: Nopales Ridge Trail (2.8 miles)
The Nopales Ridge Trail is the flattest of the four main trails at Lake Brownwood, but it's also the longest. This is the only trail that allows both biking and hiking. It starts right by park headquarters and takes you through the beautiful parkland away from the bustle of the campsites. Ranger Dudich says the Nopales Ridge trailhead at dusk is the best place to spot raccoons at the park.

Moderate: Texas Oak Trail (1.4 miles)
Just like the park, this trail has a little bit of everything. At the start you travel through tall prairie grass before a sharp turn in the trail. After the turn you emerge through the trees to an outcrop of limestone boulders with a spectacular view of the lake. The second half of this hike gets more challenging with quite a few changes in elevation, but the changing view of the lake makes it worth it. The trail is named after the various Texas oaks that you'll spot at different locations throughout. Dudich also hosts some of his night hikes along this trail because it's a good location to spot wildlife.

Moderate: Lakeside Trail (0.7 miles one way)
The Lakeside Trail is a walk through history. The entire route is scattered with structures built by the CCC in 1935. There are limestone tables and benches, old cook stations and, most prominently, the grand staircase that starts by the rec hall and goes all the way down to the water, where a ferry used to dock and take visitors on rides around the lake. This hike is rich in history and views, with the lake right next to you the entire way. The hike is a bit challenging at times with changes in elevation and a few spots with large steps. The hike also doesn't loop back to its start, so you will have to turn around, making the full trek closer to 1.4 miles.
Plan Your State Park Visit

Hit the Trails
There are four main hiking trails in the park, varying in length and difficulty. Most offer gorgeous lake views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The park recently acquired 869 acres of land to add to the park, including 1.5 additional miles of waterfront. In spring 2025, Dudich will begin leading off-trail hikes through this new acreage. Of the four main hiking trails, only the Nopales Ridge Trail allows bikes.
Get Out on the Water
A trip to Lake Brownwood wouldn't be complete without a dip in the lake. The large swimming area has plenty of picnic tables and shade trees. Bring a floatie and a cold drink and enjoy the refreshing water. The park has three boat ramps and a boat dock. Take your boat out for a spin and enjoy the lake from the water.
Try Fishing
Pretty much anywhere you want to cast a line you can, except the designated swimming area. Some of the campsites sit right next to the water, allowing campers to pull up a chair and fish from their site. The park also offers a fishing pier and cleaning station. Ranger Dudich says there's a secret to catching the fish from the pier. To catch sunfish, stand on the right side of the pier and cast toward the shore. To catch crappie, Dudich says there's an artificial reef on the right side of the pier where crappie like to hang out.

Attend a Ranger Program
Lake Brownwood has a wide variety of ranger-led programs. Dudich says he introduces a new program every month or so to keep things interesting. Some of the guided hikes include a wilderness survival hike where participants learn edible or medicinal plants, a night hike to see moonlit views and wildlife, and a CCC hike. Dudich also has a unique reptile program where he brings out some of his own reptiles and shows visitors.
Wildlife
Ringtails: Campers are often excited to see ringtails. The small cat-sized mammal has a distinct black and white striped tail like its cousin the raccoon. Dudich says some ringtails live along the Lakeside Trail. Ringtails are nocturnal, so your best opportunity to see them is likely on a night hike.

Nine-banded Armadillo: The nine-banded armadillo is the state small mammal of Texas. These little critters are common in the park, and if you don't see one for yourself, you might see their small burrows on the sides of some of the trails. The armadillo is also the image on the park's sticker and patch.

Great Blue Heron: The great blue heron is a common guest of the park, enjoying the shallow shores of the lake. If you see these birds fly, you'll notice their slow wingbeats. Great blue herons are known for being territorial, so don't get too close when observing these majestic birds.
Cactus Wrens: Cactus wrens are known for their unique, noisy song, which can sound like an old car trying to start. These birds like to nest on the prickly pear cactus and cholla. They are not shy, so if you're near their nests, you'll likely see or hear them. Dudich says Lake Brownwood has the easternmost population of cactus wrens.
Selfie Spots

Top of the Watchtower at the Rec Hall
Climb the approximately 20 steps to the top of the old watchtower for a beautiful view of Lake Brownwood above the trees.
On a Night Hike on Lakeside Trail
Join Ranger Dudich on a night hike along the Lakeside Trail and stop at one of the many outlooks for a view of the moon reflecting off the lake.
With Your Fresh Catch
Take a photo lounging on the fishing pier or with your fresh catch at the cleaning station nearby.
Pro Packing List
Aside from the necessities, these items can make your trip to Lake Brownwood State Park even more enjoyable.

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Zulu Fishing Kayak
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