Camping at Meridian State Park

Location

Meridian State Park is located in central Texas, near the small town of Meridian, which serves as the county seat of Bosque County. The exact address is:

173 Park Road #7
Meridian, TX 76665

Size and Terrain

The park encompasses approximately 505 acres and is situated around a 72-acre lake, Lake Meridian. It features hilly terrain with an elevation range between 920 feet to 1,040 feet, covered with a diverse mix of grasslands, juniper-oak woods, and mesquite trees.

Activities and Amenities

Fishing and Boating: Lake Meridian offers great opportunities for fishing, and anglers can expect to catch species such as largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. Non-motorized boating is allowed, and there is a boat ramp for easy access to the water.

Hiking and Biking: There is a 2.5-mile trail that loops around the lake, which is popular for both hiking and biking. The trail offers beautiful views and varying difficulty levels, with some elevation changes along the way.

Swimming: The park has a designated swimming area for cooling off on hot summer days. There are no lifeguards on duty, so swimming is at your own risk.

Picnicking: Visitors can enjoy picnicking at various spots throughout the park. Picnic tables and grills are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Camping: Meridian State Park offers a variety of camping options, including:

• Campsites with water and electricity
• Campsites with water
• Group facilities with a dining hall and sleeping barracks
• Primitive campsites for a more rugged experience

Flora and Fauna

The park is home to many species of birds, making it an excellent location for bird watching. It's part of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Texas Birding Trail. The diverse plant life supports a variety of wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, raccoons, and armadillos.

Visitor Information

• Reservations: It's recommended to reserve campsites and picnic facilities in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends.

• Operating Hours: Meridian State Park is typically open 7 days a week year-round, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

• Entrance Fees: There is a daily entrance fee for adults, while children 12 years and under are free. Fees are subject to change, so it's best to check the Texas State Parks website or call ahead for current rates.

• Accessibility: The park has some ADA-accessible facilities, but due to the natural terrain, not all areas may be easily accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.

Safety and Regulations

• Water Safety: Always supervise children near the water and wear life jackets when boating or fishing.
• Wildlife: Do not feed or approach wildlife, and secure food items to prevent attracting animals to camping areas.
• Fire Safety: Follow park rules regarding campfires and grilling, and be aware of any burn bans due to dry conditions.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out what you pack in, and dispose of trash properly to keep the park clean.

Contact Information

For more information, potential visitors can contact the park directly at:

Phone: (254) 435-2536

Reservations can also be made through the Texas State Parks reservation system online or by phone:

Online Reservations: [Texas State Parks Reservations](https://texasstateparks.reserveamerica.com/)
Phone Reservations: (512) 389-8900

Always check the latest updates from the official Texas Parks and Wildlife website before planning your visit to ensure you have the most current information regarding weather conditions, park closures, or special events.