Cross Timber TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cross Timber, Texas.
1. Dinosaur Valley State Park
ANCIENT FOOTPRINTS PRESERVED
Dinosaur Valley State Park offers visitors the rare opportunity to walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs that once roamed Texas millions of years ago. The park features preserved dinosaur tracks in the limestone riverbed of the Paluxy River, allowing visitors to literally touch history. Beyond the prehistoric attractions, the park offers hiking trails, camping sites, and swimming opportunities in a beautiful natural setting.
2. Cross Timbers Hiking Trail
SCENIC SHORELINE PATH
The Cross Timbers Hiking Trail is a 14-mile point-to-point trail built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers along Lake Texoma. The trail winds through Juniper Point, Cedar Bayou, Rock Creek, and Paw Paw Creek Resorts, offering varying terrain with several elevation changes in the first half and more level ground with sparse tree cover in the second half. Hikers should be prepared for a moderate level of difficulty and should bring sufficient water, as it's only available in developed parks along the route.
3. Mineral Wells State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Mineral Wells State Park provides a diverse range of outdoor activities in the heart of the Cross Timbers region. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, boating, and camping amidst beautiful woodland scenery. The park's location in the Cross Timbers ecological region showcases the unique transition zone between eastern forests and western plains.
4. Cross Mountain Park
HISTORIC HILLTOP VIEWS
Cross Mountain Park sits atop a historic marl and limestone hill with an elevation of 1,951 feet, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. The park's rich history adds to its appeal, making it both a natural and cultural destination. Visitors can hike to the summit and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while taking in the scenic vistas of the Texas Hill Country.
5. Lake Ray Roberts
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
Lake Ray Roberts is a popular recreational lake in the Cross Timbers region offering excellent fishing, boating, and water sports opportunities. The lake is surrounded by state parks with camping facilities, hiking trails, and equestrian paths that showcase the natural beauty of the Cross Timbers ecosystem. Its proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex makes it a convenient getaway for urban residents seeking outdoor recreation.
6. Lake Lewisville
WATERSPORTS AND RECREATION
Lake Lewisville spans over 29,000 acres and is one of the largest lakes in North Texas, offering extensive recreational activities including boating, fishing, swimming, and watersports. The lake features multiple marinas, parks, and beaches where visitors can enjoy the sunshine and water activities. Its shoreline restaurants and entertainment venues make it a social hub as well as a natural attraction.
7. Denton Square
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN DISTRICT
Denton Square is a vibrant downtown district centered around the historic Denton County Courthouse, offering a mix of local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The area hosts numerous events throughout the year, including music festivals that showcase Denton's renowned music scene. With its proximity to two universities, the square has a youthful, creative energy while maintaining its historic charm.
8. Granbury Historic Square
CHARMING PRESERVED DOWNTOWN
Granbury Historic Square is a beautifully preserved downtown district featuring the Hood County Courthouse surrounded by Victorian-era buildings housing boutiques, restaurants, and galleries. The square is recognized as one of the most complete historic courthouse squares in Texas and offers shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Throughout the year, the square hosts numerous festivals, concerts, and events that draw visitors from across the region.
9. Decatur Courthouse
ARCHITECTURAL HISTORIC GEM
The Decatur Courthouse is one of the finest 19th-century courthouses in Texas, showcasing impressive architectural details and historic significance. The pink granite and red sandstone building stands as the centerpiece of Decatur's town square, drawing architecture enthusiasts and history buffs. Visitors can explore both the beautiful exterior and interior spaces that have been meticulously maintained to preserve their historical integrity.
10. Clark Gardens Botanical Park
SERENE FLORAL SANCTUARY
Clark Gardens Botanical Park spans over 35 acres of stunning landscaped gardens featuring diverse plant collections, water features, and walking paths. The gardens showcase seasonal blooms throughout the year, with spring wildflowers, summer roses, and fall foliage creating ever-changing displays. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful setting, photograph the abundant wildlife, or attend one of the many events hosted on the grounds.
11. Nocona Boot Company
LEGENDARY WESTERN FOOTWEAR
Nocona Boot Company continues the legacy of this small town famous for producing high-quality cowboy boots since 1925. Visitors can explore the retail store offering authentic western footwear handcrafted with traditional techniques and premium materials. The company represents an important piece of Texas heritage and the cowboy culture that defines much of the state's identity.
12. Muenster Oktoberfest
GERMAN CULTURAL CELEBRATION
Muenster Oktoberfest is an annual celebration of the town's German heritage featuring authentic food, music, dancing, and plenty of beer. The festival transforms this small German settlement into a vibrant cultural experience with activities for all ages, including a 5K run, carnival, arts and crafts, and traditional German entertainment. Visitors can enjoy the small-town charm while experiencing the rich cultural traditions that have been preserved since the town's founding by German immigrants.
13. Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
SAFARI CONSERVATION EXPERIENCE
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is a 1,800-acre conservation center where visitors can drive through and observe over 1,100 animals from 50 exotic and endangered species in a natural setting. The center offers guided and self-guided safari tours where animals approach vehicles for up-close encounters and feeding opportunities. Beyond entertainment, Fossil Rim focuses on conservation, education, and research to help protect endangered species for future generations.
14. Lake Bridgeport
SCENIC RECREATIONAL WATERS
Lake Bridgeport is a 13,000-acre reservoir offering boating, fishing, and waterfront recreation in the western Cross Timbers region. The lake is known for its clear blue waters, limestone cliffs, and numerous coves that provide excellent fishing spots for bass, crappie, and catfish. Multiple parks and marinas around the lake provide access points, camping facilities, and boat rentals for visitors seeking outdoor adventures.
15. Baker Hotel
HISTORIC MINERAL SPA
The Baker Hotel is a grand historic landmark currently undergoing restoration to return this once-famous mineral spa destination to its former glory. Built in 1929, the 14-story Spanish Colonial Revival structure was once known as the premier spa resort in the country, attracting celebrities and tourists seeking the healing mineral waters. When reopened, the hotel will once again serve as a luxury spa destination while preserving an important piece of Cross Timbers regional history.