Soldiers at Fort Richardson protected settlers along the Texas frontier. Today, you can walk in the footsteps of those soldiers. But you can also camp and explore the countryside they protected on foot, bike or horseback.
Stay overnight at a cabin or campsite. Restrooms with showers are in the park. Reserve the group camp for a gathering of friends or family.
The park has five campsites for horseback riders next to the trailway.
Trails
Twelve miles of trails are open to all users – hikers, bikers and horseback riders.Fishing
Try your luck fishing at two lakes! You do not need a fishing license to fish from shore or pier in a state park.
Quarry Lake is behind park headquarters. TPWD stocks the lake with bass, catfish and (in winter months) trout.
At North Park, you can fish Lake Jacksboro from the shore or launch a kayak (you’ll need a fishing license to fish from a boat). This park has a restroom (no shower) and water-only campsites.
Swimming
Take your family to North Park to swim in Lake Jacksboro. The park has a sand beach, covered tables, water spigots and restrooms (no showers).
We do not have lifeguards. Read through our swimming safety tips before your visit.
Geocaching
Search for geocaches hidden across the park. Learn more on our Geocaching page, then hit the trail!
The nine-mile (one-way) Lost Creek Reservoir Trailway winds along scenic Lost Creek and the shores of two lakes. It ends at our north park.
To reach the park, travel 1/2 mile south of Jacksboro on U.S. Highway 281.
Such a beautiful and historic park thats worth visiting anytime of the year! We stayed 3 miles from the park at the north park location for tent campers! We still visited and explored the park and historic buildings the Fort Richardson had to offer. Park staff was super friendly. Especially Jennifer who greeted us while checking in and gave us such detailed info. Can’t wait to come back again for more camping and exploring in the future!
Spent a random Sunday afternoon here and so glad I did! The restored buildings alone are worth the visit but the nature trails are where it’s at here also. Beautiful trails along a very gentle creek. The spring flowers (mid-May) were beautiful! We don’t RV but the sites looked well maintained and very clean.
Nice place to go for a day trip, or if you want to camp out, they have plenty of spots.
Fort Richardson State Park seamlessly blends history and nature. Exploring the well-preserved 19th-century military fort transports you to another era, while the park's trails showcase the beauty of North Texas landscapes. Whether you're a history buff or nature lover, this park offers a unique and enriching experience. The campgrounds are well-equipped, making it an excellent destination for a weekend getaway.
We completed the New Year's Day First Hike scavenger hunt and really enjoyed it! Great hiking, clean restrooms, and incredible history! The quarters, hospital, and other buildings were so interesting to visit, also! We will definitely return to camp!