AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department announced on Monday that it has finalized the purchase of 2,020 acres of land in Central Texas with the goal of making it part of a new state park. 

What You Need To Know

  • The property is in Burnet County, and it includes two miles of land along the Colorado River across from Colorado Bend State Park

  • According to a news release from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, this purchase completes “phase one” of a potential two-phase property purchase to create an over 3,000-acre state park

  • The second phase includes purchasing an additional property in Lampasas and Burnet counties comprising 1,100 acres

  • The new Burnet County state-owned land is approximately 10 miles upstream from Lake Buchanan

The property is in Burnet County–which is located northwest of Austin–and it includes two miles of land along the Colorado River across from Colorado Bend State Park. 

According to a news release from the department, this purchase completes “phase one” of a potential two-phase property purchase to create an over 3,000-acre state park. 

The second phase includes purchasing an additional property in Lampasas and Burnet counties comprising 1,100 acres. 

During a Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission meeting last week, the commission allowed the department’s executive director to “take all necessary steps to acquire the approximately 1,100 acres from a willing seller.”

The parks department purchased the 2,020-acre property through a one-time funding appropriation along with funds from the sporting goods sales tax. 

The Centennial Parks Conservation Fund–which is a $1 billion fund approved by voters in 2023–will be used to develop the new state park.

This new land acquisition joins others made by the state in the past few months, including over 3,000 acres added to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area and 500 acres at Lake Colorado City State Park. 

“It’s great to see these acquisitions which will provide public access and conserve their beautiful landscapes for years to come,” said Jeff Hildebrand, chairman of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, in the release. “This property near the current Colorado Bend State Park is the cornerstone for what will be a brand-new park.”

The new Burnet County state-owned land is approximately 10 miles upstream from Lake Buchanan. 

“It is exciting to add another incredible property that will eventually become a new Texas State Park,” said Rodney Franklin, director of Texas State Parks, in a statement. “This acquisition will give visitors access to enjoy the beautiful Colorado River and the diverse landscapes that are featured across the property. It is fun to imagine generations of Texans enjoying the scenic views and outdoor adventures awaiting on this property. It is also great to see our team and families work together to leave this legacy for Texas.”

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is now seeking public input about a plan for recreational opportunities on the property. The department said the plan could take “many months” to complete, and it will release an opening date in the future.