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Palo Pinto Today
By the People, for the People
Texas Opens First New State Park in Nearly 20 Years
Governor Abbott celebrates the grand opening of Palo Pinto Mountains State Park
Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:54pm
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The grand opening of Palo Pinto Mountains State Park celebrates Texas' commitment to preserving its natural wonders and supporting the state's thriving tourism industry.Palo Pinto TodayGovernor Greg Abbott today celebrated the grand opening of Palo Pinto Mountains State Park, the first new state park to open in nearly two decades. Located between Abilene and Dallas-Fort Worth, the new park offers more than 4,800 acres of land for Texans to explore and enjoy.
Why it matters
The opening of Palo Pinto Mountains State Park builds on Texas' historic investment in outdoor recreation and preserving the state's natural landscapes and wildlife for future generations. State parks not only protect the land and wildlife that define Texas, but also serve as powerful economic engines that support a thriving tourism industry in local communities.
The details
During the ribbon cutting ceremony, Governor Abbott reflected on his childhood experiences exploring the outdoors and traveling to state parks with his Boy Scout Troop. He noted the importance of preserving Texas' natural landscapes and beautiful wildlife. The new park offers Texans expanded opportunities for camping, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of Texas.
- Palo Pinto Mountains State Park opened on April 11, 2026.
The players
Greg Abbott
The Governor of Texas who participated in the ribbon cutting ceremony and emphasized the importance of preserving Texas' natural landscapes and wildlife.
Jane Nelson
The Texas Secretary of State who joined Governor Abbott at the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony.
Lee Bass
The Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPW) Commission Chairman-Emeritus who attended the event.
Michael Greene
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation Chairman who attended the event.
David Yoskowitz
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Executive Director who attended the event.
What they’re saying
“The Palo Pinto Mountains State Park is one of the most majestic of them all. Preserving our lands is crucial. It allows communities to reconnect with the land that made Texas, Texas. We are going to live up to our commitment to preserve our state parks so that future generations have access to the beauty of Texas that was originally seen by Sam Houston and Davy Crockett.”
— Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas
What’s next
The new Palo Pinto Mountains State Park is expected to draw visitors from across the state and nation to one of the fastest-growing regions in the country.
The takeaway
The opening of Palo Pinto Mountains State Park demonstrates Texas' commitment to preserving its natural landscapes and wildlife, while also supporting the state's thriving tourism industry. This new park will provide expanded opportunities for Texans and out-of-state visitors to experience the beauty and majesty of the Lone Star State.
