Meridian State Park

4.44

116 reviews

173 PARK ROAD 7, MERIDIAN, Texas, 76665, United States

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:RV Camping Texas Family-Friendly Campgrounds Texas Swimming Camping Texas +1 more

Quick Facts

1,027 ft

Price

$5/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Texas State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,027 ft

Price

$5/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Texas State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Meridian State Park

$5.00 - $5.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Day use fee is $5 per day, per person aged 13 and older.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.44

Recommended

Based on 116 reviews

790 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanhikingstaff

Some mention

noiseroad noise

"User reviews highlight the park's cleanliness, friendly staff, and variety of recreational activities. Common praises include the well-maintained trails, clean bathrooms, and family-friendly environment. Some users noted noise issues in primitive sites near the highway."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

173 PARK ROAD 7, MERIDIAN, Texas, 76665, United States

Meridian State Park

173 PARK ROAD 7, MERIDIAN, Texas, 76665, United States

Driving directionsFrom Fort Worth: Take I 35W South to Burleson. Take Hwy 174 South through Cleburne to Meridian. Take Hwy 22 West for 3 miles to the Park. From Dallas: Take I 35E South to Hillsboro. Take Hwy 22 West through Meridian for 3 miles to the Park. OR Hwy 67 South to Cleburne. Take Hwy 174 South to Meridian. Take Hwy 22 West for 3 miles to the park. From Austin: Take I 35 North to Waco. Take Hwy 6 North to Meridian. Take Hwy 22 West for 3 miles to the Park.

The park is accessible via paved roads, but some user reviews mention narrow roads with challenging turns for larger vehicles. One review states: 'Terrible, narrow roads, tree limbs are way too low, 2 hairpin turns that are almost impossible.'

Nearby places

Meridian: approximately 3 miles. Clifton TX: distance unspecified, biked by user.

Nearby supplies

Supplies including groceries, gas, and fishing equipment are available within 15 minutes in Meridian city.

Best Time to Camp at Meridian State Park

Each season paints Meridian State Park with its own palette of experiences. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and perfect hiking temperatures, while autumn brings crisp air and golden light filtering through the trees—both seasons ideal for pitching your tent under star-filled skies. Summer transforms the lake into a refreshing oasis from the Texas heat, perfect for swimming and leisurely paddles. Even winter has its charm here, with mild temperatures inviting year-round exploration, though morning fog occasionally wraps the landscape in an ethereal embrace, creating photographer's dream conditions.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Texas heat makes summer hot; swimming available but reviewers advise bringing fans/cooling gear.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 14% in TX

Autumn recommended: crisp air, golden light, ideal hiking and scenic conditions.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 24% in TX

Spring blooms and pleasant hiking temps make it one of the best seasons for visiting.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.5 / 5

Park open year-round; milder Texas winters but fewer seasonal highlights than spring/fall.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: The park is open year-round.

About Meridian State Park

Nestled in the heart of Texas, Meridian State Park offers an intimate escape where time slows down and nature takes center stage. This hidden gem beckons with its pristine no-wake lake, where morning mist dances across glassy waters, and winding trails lead adventurers through diverse landscapes. Historic Civilian Conservation Corps structures stand as monuments to America's past, while modern amenities ensure comfortable camping experiences. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring scenic trails with your family, or floating in the peaceful lake on a summer afternoon, this compact park delivers big on tranquility and outdoor recreation.

The campground accommodates a range of camping preferences. Options include screened shelters, cabins, and sites for both primitive and RV camping.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the remarkably preserved Civilian Conservation Corps structures scattered throughout the park—enduring testaments to the young men who shaped this landscape during the Great Depression. These architectural treasures, built with local limestone and skilled craftsmanship, tell the story of America's conservation legacy. Thoughtfully placed interpretive signs invite visitors to discover how the CCC transformed raw Texas terrain into the recreational haven enjoyed today, making every walk through the park a journey through living history.

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Meridian State Park with its own palette of experiences. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and perfect hiking temperatures, while autumn brings crisp air and golden light filtering through the trees—both seasons ideal for pitching your tent under star-filled skies. Summer transforms the lake into a refreshing oasis from the Texas heat, perfect for swimming and leisurely paddles. Even winter has its charm here, with mild temperatures inviting year-round exploration, though morning fog occasionally wraps the landscape in an ethereal embrace, creating photographer's dream conditions.

ElevationThe park's gentle topography creates an accessible outdoor playground where families of all ages and abilities can comfortably explore the natural beauty of central Texas.

Natural Features and SceneryWhere limestone bluffs rise dramatically from emerald waters and ancient cedar trees twist skyward in sculptural forms, Meridian State Park showcases Texas nature at its finest. The tranquil lake mirrors the sky and surrounding hills, creating picture-perfect vistas from every shoreline campsite. Beneath the gnarled cedars, soft grasses carpet the forest floor, inviting barefoot walks and peaceful picnics. For those seeking solitude, the drive-in primitive sites offer front-row seats to nature's theater, where deer emerge at dusk and birdsong provides the morning alarm clock.

Geological RegionMeridian State Park sits at nature's crossroads, straddling the legendary 98th Meridian where two distinct Texas worlds collide in spectacular fashion. Here, the rugged limestone hills of the Hill Country meet the sweeping grasslands of the Blackland Prairies, creating an ecological wonderland that surprises even seasoned naturalists. This geological convergence zone nurtures an astonishing diversity of plant and animal life rarely found in such a compact area, making every trail a journey through multiple ecosystems and every vista a study in Texas's remarkable natural heritage.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

8:15 AM

Check-out

4:45 PM

Stay Limit

Stay limit not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampsites are described as wooded, offering some seclusion. RV sites are described as close together.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Texas State Parks website or by calling the park directly.

Cancellation PolicyIf plans change, visitors should modify or cancel reservations as soon as possible.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not comprehensively detailed in the available sources.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size. Some are suitable for large RVs, while others are better for tents and smaller vehicles. Specific details such as 'sites were well spaced enough' and 'site fit a 5-person standing tent and a 2-person backpacking tent' suggest flexibility.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across campsites. While some sites offer seclusion due to trees and vegetation, others are located near hiking trails or close together, leading to less privacy. A user noted, 'The only thing that we didn't like was there was a pretty active hiking trail right next to our camping site so it didn't feel as private as other sites.

Recommended SitesAvoid primitive campsites near the highway due to road noise.

Amenities available

Showers

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Meridian State Park offers a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, fishing, swimming in the no-wake lake, bird watching, paddling, and kayaking. The trails vary in difficulty, and the lake provides a serene environment for water-based activities. Reviewers have praised the well-marked trails and the opportunity to engage in numerous activities.

HikingThe park features four trails, including the Bosque Trail, which circles the lake and offers scenic views. Another popular trail is the Blue Trail, which is 2.2 miles long and considered the most challenging. Reviewers consistently highlight the trails as well-maintained and enjoyable, with comments such as, 'The trail is easy and very clearly marked' and 'Trails nice despite the heat.'

FishingFishing is allowed in the lake, with periodic fishing docks available. While some users reported limited success ('We fished quite a bit but only caught one small bass'), the no-wake lake maintains a tranquil fishing experience.

SwimmingSwimming is permitted in the lake, which is designated as a no-wake zone. Reviewers mention that the lake is shallow enough for kids in some areas, making it family-friendly.

BoatingBoating activities include kayaking and canoeing. Self-serve kayak rentals are available on-site. The no-wake lake ensures a peaceful boating environment.

Wildlife viewingBirdwatching is a notable activity, with species such as the golden-cheeked warbler nesting in the park during spring and early summer. Wildlife such as armadillos has also been spotted.

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBuck Moth Caterpillars are a hazard during April. 'Take a can of dermaplast in your first aid kit and use duct tape to remove spines.' Some campsites near highways can be noisy.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyFirewood is available at the entrance for $7/$11, and fire pits are provided at campsites.

Emergency ServicesLocated approximately 15 minutes from Meridian city, which has medical care, grocery stores, gas stations, and fishing supplies.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are well-maintained, contributing to the cleanliness of the park.

Water FeaturesLake Meridian is central to the park activities, featuring a fishing dock, swimming area, and kayak rentals.

Camp HostPark Rangers are described as friendly and helpful. 'Some of the nicest Rangers we've encountered.'

Weather at Meridian State Park

Reviews

4.4

116 reviews

Recommended

Meridian State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the park's cleanliness, friendly staff, and variety of recreational activities. Common praises include the well-maintained trails, clean bathrooms, and family-friendly environment. Some users noted noise issues in primitive sites near the highway.

Review Summaries

Based on 116 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors appreciate the park's cleanliness, variety of activities such as hiking and kayaking, and the friendliness of the staff. Specific comments include 'The whole place was wonderful' and 'The...

Based on 116 reviews

Common Concerns

Some campsites are located near the highway, leading to noise complaints. RV sites are noted to be close together, and low tree limbs were an issue for larger vehicles. A reviewer said, 'If you are...

Based on 116 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips include bringing insect repellent during caterpillar season (April) and choosing screened shelters or cabins for a better experience. Firewood is available for purchase at the entrance, and...

Based on 116 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are consistently recommended as ideal camping seasons due to moderate weather and blooming wildflowers. Summer reviews suggest bringing fans and cooling equipment due to Texas heat.

Based on 116 reviews

Camper Quotes

'We stayed one night in a cabin. It was worth every penny!'- Liz 'Trails are nice despite the heat.'- Cheryl Till 'Really enjoy this little lake. Has a nice swimming area, bathrooms with showers.'-...

Based on 116 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific sites like #14 are highlighted for their shade, while screened shelter #13 is praised for its scenic view and proximity to communal activities.

Based on 116 reviews