Just one hour north of Frisco, adventure awaits! If you’re ready to enjoy some fresh air and explore, check out these fun, family-friendly destinations.
Each of these hidden gems offers a unique outdoor experience. Check out our tips for making the most of your visit – and enjoy your time exploring the great outdoors!
Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge
Where to go: Drive straight up Preston Road, about one hour north of Frisco. | Google Map
What you’ll find: Hagerman is a wildlife lover’s paradise! The 11,320-acre refuge, located on the shores of Lake Texoma, is a mixture of forests, creeks, grasslands, and freshwater wetlands. Home to more than 500 different documented species of animals, Hagerman is a great place to hike, fish, and discover wildlife. The refuge has five hiking trails (ranging in length from less than a mile to 7 miles round trip), and plenty of shorelines to explore at your own pace.
Why we love it: Hagerman is a laid back adventure with no reservations, crowds, or admission fees. The refuge is perfect for “self-paced” exploration and is great for nature lovers of all ages. The shorter trails are appropriate for even the littlest hikers, while the longer trails are great for more serious enthusiasts and birdwatchers. If you prefer a more relaxed approach, bring your fishing pole, folding chair, and a picnic lunch.
Lifestyle Frisco’s tips: Be mindful of recent weather trends. The wetlands tend to flood quickly during periods of heavier rain. While this provides for some pretty spectacular scenery and wildlife viewing, the entrances to the trails can be blocked due to high water. Be ready to be flexible, because the ever-changing habitats are part of what makes Hagerman special!
Eisenhower State Park
Where to go: Drive straight up Preston Road, one hour from Frisco. | Google Map
What you’ll find: A first-rate state park with excellent hiking trails, plus fishing, camping, and gorgeous scenery. Located on the shores of Lake Texoma, Eisenhower State Park is a fantastic place to explore nature. The Park features six trails, with various points of interests, and countless ways to enjoy the outdoors.
Why we love it: Having lived in North Texas for more than 25 years, I was shocked that I just learned about Eisenhower State Park. It’s well worth the drive and offers scenic views that look more like California than North Texas. Our family’s favorite trail is the Ike Hike and Bike, with a stop at the picturesque “Lover’s Leap”. Hike a portion of the trail for a kid-friendly adventure or challenge yourself with the whole journey!
Lifestyle Frisco’s tips: You must make reservations online prior to your visit since park attendance is currently limited. The trails offer a decent amount of shade, but bring plenty of water and arrive early to beat the heat.
Post Oak Creek
Where to go: Sherman, Texas, about a 50-minute drive north of Frisco. | Google Map
What you’ll find: Lots and lots of shark teeth! This little spot is one of the coolest hidden gems in North Texas. Just off the side of the road and a short climb down, Post Oak Creek is a great family adventure. Kids (and adults!) will love wading in the cool water and “treasure hunting” in the gravel creek bed.
Why we love it: Playing in water, digging through dirt, and discovering prehistoric shark teeth – what could be better?! Although the North Sulfur River in Ladonia is our region’s best place to fossil hunt, Post Oak Creek is much simpler and easier to navigate. It’s just a short walk for the roadside, with a manageable climb down to the creek bed. The shark teeth are surprisingly easy to find (we usually find at least ten within an hour) and the experience is awesome for the entire family.
Lifestyle Frisco’s tips: Bring digging and straining tools (small hand shovels and kitchen colanders work great) and water shoes. You can even bring folding chairs for mom and dad. Arrive early to get a prime spot along the creek (summer weekends can get crowded) and you’ll be amazed by your finds!
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Ladonia Fossil Park is the Ultimate North Texas Adventure
