At just over 1 hour away from Dallas, TX, Eisenhower State Park is the perfect weekend getaway from the big city. With cozy cabins, miles of hiking trails, swimming beaches, kayaks, and wildlife, you will leave feeling refreshed and ready for the week ahead. I know I can not be the only one in desperate need of a break from the hustle and bustle. And fun fact…we visited to celebrate our dog’s 9th birthday. #crazydogparents (So of course this is a dog-friendly guide to Eisenhower State Park).
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Table of Contents
How do I get to Eisenhower State Park?
Eisenhower State Park is located in Denison, Texas. It is a quick 1-hour drive North of Dallas, TX, or a 4-hour drive from Oklahoma City. Texas State Parks can be a bit busy, so it’s best to reserve your day pass online before visiting!
When is the best time to visit?
If you are visiting Eisenhower State Park to go swimming, then summers (June-August) will be your best bet. If you are like me and avoid Texas summers like crazy, then I recommend avoiding those months. Early Spring (late April-early May), and late fall (October) are the best times to visit with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Winters in Texas are also mild and great for hiking and bonfires!
Keep Reading: MORE Dog-friendly Weekend Getaways from Dallas, TX
Where should I stay?
- Ike’s Cabin: A rustic no-frills cabin located directly in the park.
- Eisenhower State Park Campground: Over 100 different campsites to choose from. Some with full hookups, and others near the trails!
- Paradise on Lake Texoma: (where we stayed!): This glamping resort offers different options of cabins/bungalows right on the lake! The cabin we stayed in was equipped with a comfy bed, outdoor sink, grill, and fire pit. There is a clean bathroom within walking distance of the cabins to use. And it’s of course dog-friendly!
Things to Know before visiting Eisenhower State Park
- It cost 5 dollars per person to enter
- Online reservations are recommended due to Texas State Parks being notoriously busy.
- Texas is hot. Pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a lot of water.
Things to do in Eisenhower State Park
Hiking
There are 6 short hiking trails to choose from ranging from .5 miles to 3.2 miles. If feeling extra adventurous, I recommend starting at Armadillo Hill trailhead (marker 1) and following that trail to Ike’s Hike and Bike Trail. This way you will pass all four points of interest and see the park in its entirety. The round trip total would be just under 8 miles.
Birding
Birding is something I would love to learn more about but currently know absolutely nothing. For those with more bird knowledge, Eisenhower State Park is a great place to test it out. Some of the birds you may see are Bald eagles, pelicans, loons, and other waterfowl.
Mountain Biking
If hiking is not your thing, you can grab your bike and ride along Ike’s HIke and Bike trail (3.2 miles). The trail does get a bit rugged between markers 3 and 4 so make sure you are experienced and prepared.
Swimming
There is a designated swimming area on the North Side of the park (near the Elm Point Camping area). Dogs are not allowed here so if traveling with a pup, you will have to find a swimming spot along the trail!
Picnicking
Lover’s Leap on the North side of the park is the perfect spot to have a picnic. You can park at the beach parking lot, then take the trail (to the left of the beach trail) to Lover’s Leap. You will be met with amazing views of Lake Texoma!
Kayak, Canoe, or Pontoon
You can rent a kayak, canoe, stand-up Paddleboard, and even Pontoons at the Eisenhower Yacht Club located right in the park!
Fish
You can fish from one of the two piers (one even has lights for night fishing!) or toss your line in right from the shore. The park even has fishing gear to borrow! Check-in with the rangers for details at the gate!
Want to keep track of your Texas State Park Adventures?! Check out this Adventure Book that includes all 89 Texas State Parks!
Other Things to do near Eisenhower State Park
- Find the Cave at Waterloo Regional Park (pictured above)
- Visit Eisenhower’s Birthplace
- Stroll the streets of downtown Dension
- Bird Watch at Hangerman’s Wildlife Refuge
- Tour the grounds of Frontier Village
Where to eat near Eisenhower State Park
- Huck’s Catfish: Some people drive from Dallas just for this Catfish! If you are a seafood fan, definitely check it out!
- Watson’s Drive-In: A good dog-friendly option as you can order right from you car! They opened in the 50’s and have kept the retro vibe!
- Hickory House BBQ: Delicious BBQ (and large portions) with unique decor!
Tip! Make sure to follow me on Instagram for more USA weekend getaways and dog-friendly adventures or join my USA Travel Club for access to itineraries, freebies, and more!
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