Lake Colorado City State Park is known to offer opportunities for water sports and outdoor activities. It averaged about 27,800 visitors a year between 2017 and 2019, according to TPWD. It’s about a four-hour drive west of Dallas in Mitchell County.
The department wants to buy the 500-acre tract that includes the park to “preserve public access to the state park and allow future expansion of the park’s recreational opportunities,” according to the commissioners meeting agenda.Earlier this year, the state legislature appropriated $125 million for park acquisition statewide.
“Texas Parks and Wildlife Commissioners welcome the opportunity to ensure continued public access to Lake Colorado City State Park, which draws more than 25,000 visitors each year for swimming, fishing, boating, paddling, nature viewing, hiking and camping,” TPWD spokesperson Cory Chandler said in a statement. “With only 2.5% of Texas land open and accessible to the public, commissioners understand the vital role state parks play in offering access to outdoor spaces.
Vistra did not return requests for comment and information related to the possible real estate purchase.
Although both Vistra and the developer has said the state had multiple opportunities to purchase the parkland before their deal was finalized, TPWD has taken