Meridian State Park
00 review173 PARK ROAD 7, MERIDIAN, Texas, 76665, United States
Meridian State Park
$5.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Day use fee is $5 per day, per person aged 13 and older.
About this campground
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.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not comprehensively detailed in the available sources.
Sites 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.
Sites 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.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid primitive campsites near the highway due to road noise.
Best CampsitesScreen shelters #12-14 on Juniper Ridge and #6 are recommended for their cleanliness and location. Cabin sites overlooking the lake are highly praised.
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 are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are described as wooded, offering some seclusion. RV sites are described as close together.
Open and Closed SeasonThe park is open year-round.
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.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
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.
Hiking
The 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.'Fishing
Fishing 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.Swimming
Swimming 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.Boating
Boating activities include kayaking and canoeing. Self-serve kayak rentals are available on-site. The no-wake lake ensures a peaceful boating environment.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching 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
Kayaking and canoeing are highlighted as popular water sports, supported by the park's no-wake lake and self-serve kayak rentals.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood is available at the entrance for $7/$11, and fire pits are provided at campsites.
Hazards
General hazardsBuck 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.
Weather forecast
92
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Located approximately 15 minutes from Meridian city, which has medical care, grocery stores, gas stations, and fishing supplies.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are well-maintained, contributing to the cleanliness of the park.
Proximity to water featuresLake Meridian is central to the park activities, featuring a fishing dock, swimming area, and kayak rentals.
Common complaintsRoad noise near primitive campsites, narrow roads challenging for large vehicles, and limited privacy between RV sites are recurring issues.
HostPark Rangers are described as friendly and helpful. 'Some of the nicest Rangers we've encountered.'
Campground Map
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.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Meridian State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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
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...
Show more
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...
Show more
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...
Show more
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.
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.'-...
Show more
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.
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressed accessibility; however, the park is generally described as family-friendly.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and multiple reviews describe the park as pet-friendly. One user mentioned, 'Nice place to hike with my dogs.'
Last updated August 10, 2025