
Mother Neff State Park Texas
Texas's first state park, offering historic CCC trails, a unique cave, a scenic tower, and peaceful camping.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, pleasant temps

Mother Neff State Park Texas
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, pleasant temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Texas's first state park, offering historic CCC trails, a unique cave, a scenic tower, and peaceful camping.
"This beautiful, small park offers rich history and well-kept amenities, making it a peaceful escape."

🚗 Easy Day Trip from Waco
Just a short drive from Waco, making it perfect for a quick nature escape or a stop on your Texas road trip.
🕷️ Watch for Spiders!
Be cautious in caves and on trails; spiders are common. Avoid touching webs or clusters of daddy longlegs.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Tower
Overlook point
Climb this iconic rock tower for panoramic views of the park and surrounding Texas landscape.

The Cave
Trail system
Explore a fascinating limestone cave, a favorite spot for many visitors. Be mindful of the daddy longleg spiders that often gather here.

CCC Trails
Throughout the park
Hike on historic trails built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, offering a glimpse into the park's past.
Wildflowers
Various locations
During spring, the park bursts with colorful wildflowers, creating a picturesque scene for hikers and photographers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Spots
Be Prepared for Nature's Wonders (and Critters!)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Day Trip from Waco
Just a short drive from Waco, making it perfect for a quick nature escape or a stop on your Texas road trip.
🕷️ Watch for Spiders!
Be cautious in caves and on trails; spiders are common. Avoid touching webs or clusters of daddy longlegs.
🚶♀️ Trails for All Levels
Offers a variety of hiking trails, from short, easy walks to more moderate paths with rocky terrain.
🏕️ Book Camping Early
Campsites, especially those with full hookups, are popular and fill up fast. Reserve well in advance!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Day Trip from Waco
Just a short drive from Waco, making it perfect for a quick nature escape or a stop on your Texas road trip.
🕷️ Watch for Spiders!
Be cautious in caves and on trails; spiders are common. Avoid touching webs or clusters of daddy longlegs.
🚶♀️ Trails for All Levels
Offers a variety of hiking trails, from short, easy walks to more moderate paths with rocky terrain.
🏕️ Book Camping Early
Campsites, especially those with full hookups, are popular and fill up fast. Reserve well in advance!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Texas heat can be intense. Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking during warmer months.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Mother Neff State Park for its historical significance as Texas's first state park, its well-maintained facilities, and its peaceful atmosphere. Many enjoy the hiking trails, the unique cave, and the friendly staff. Some note the park's smaller size and the abundance of spiders as minor drawbacks.
"Beautiful little park. Very well kept and quiet. Staff were super nice. Only 2 small ponds, but the road to the river was closed due to flooding so maybe there’s riverfront there, not sure. Lots of trees and shade! I think it was too hot for most wildlife, but saw lots of dragonflies though!"
Cheri Freeman
"On the smaller side, this Texas State Park offers lots of history. It's arguably the oldest Texas State Park, and there is a lot of CCC history still preserved today as well. The park offers some short hikes that offer some mild rocky hiking, and not just flat dirt trails. The tower's view is nice, at least for the roughly Waco area. It made for a pleasant day trip."
Kaitlin B
"This is a beautiful state park. It's small, but don't let that discourage you from visiting. It has a rich history that's explained in the welcome center. You will not want to miss the informative exhibits that explain its backstory, including how it got its name. The staff were extremely friendly and made me feel welcomed instead of just a number. The cave was AMAZING, by far my favorite part. Make sure you don't touch the brown patches on the ceiling; it is daddy long leg SPIDERS huddled together."
SeaGreen Snail
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mother Neff State Park is located west of Moody, Texas, which is about a 30-minute drive from Waco. Take Highway 185 South from Waco, then turn right onto State Highway 107 West. Follow signs for the park.
Public transportation options are very limited in this rural area. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle for convenient access to Mother Neff State Park.
From Austin or Temple, head north on I-35 and take the exit for State Highway 107 West towards Moody. The park is a short drive from there.
Road closures can occur due to weather, such as flooding on the Leon River. It's always a good idea to check the official Texas State Parks website for any current alerts before your visit.
Absolutely! Mother Neff State Park is a great destination for a day trip, offering hiking trails, historical sites, and scenic views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically $2 per person per day for adults, with children 12 and under free. It's always best to check the official Texas State Parks website for the most current pricing.
The park gates are generally open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. The Visitor Center has more limited hours, usually 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed for lunch on weekdays).
While day-use entry might not always require reservations, it's highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to guarantee entry. Camping reservations are essential and fill up quickly.
Yes, a Texas State Parks Pass is generally accepted and provides free entry for the pass holder and their guests, depending on the pass type.
Yes, camping fees apply in addition to the park entrance fee. Campsites offer various amenities, including full hookups, and rates vary. Booking in advance is crucial.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include those leading to the historic tower and the cave. The park offers a mix of woodland and prairie paths, with some trails being CCC-era constructions.
Yes, there is a notable cave that many visitors enjoy exploring. Be aware that it can be home to many daddy longleg spiders.
You might spot armadillos, various birds, dragonflies, and other small creatures. Keep an eye out for snakes, especially during warmer months.
Yes, the park offers a cave, hiking trails, and historical elements that can be engaging for children. Some campsites also have playscapes.
Yes, picnic areas are available throughout the park, offering shaded spots to enjoy a meal amidst nature.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants or food services located directly within Mother Neff State Park. Visitors should plan to bring their own food and drinks.
The nearest towns with dining options are Moody and McGregor. You can also find a wider variety of restaurants in nearby cities like Waco or Temple.
Yes, most campsites are equipped for cooking, and many have fire rings or grills. Remember to follow park guidelines for campfires.
Small grocery stores can be found in Moody and McGregor for essential supplies. For a larger selection, you would need to travel to Waco or Temple.
Waco offers a diverse culinary scene, from food trucks to cafes and restaurants. If you're visiting the Silos, there are food options available there as well.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic tower offers great panoramic shots, while the cave provides unique, moody lighting. The wildflower fields in spring and the scenic drives are also excellent subjects.
Yes, the park's varied terrain, from river basin to prairie and woodlands, offers diverse landscape photography opportunities.
While wildlife sightings can be unpredictable, opportunities exist for photographing birds, insects, and small mammals. Patience is key!
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) provide the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Texas State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the park's specific regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Some campsites are equipped with playscapes, adding to the family-friendly atmosphere. The relatively short and manageable hiking trails mean younger children can participate without getting too tired. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and keep an eye out for spiders and snakes, especially in shaded or damp areas.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and drinks is key to keeping costs down, as there are no dining facilities within the park. The natural beauty and historical significance provide ample entertainment without requiring expensive activities.
📸 Photographers
During the spring, the park becomes a canvas of wildflowers, ideal for macro photography or capturing vibrant natural scenes. The scenic drives through the park also present opportunities for capturing the rolling Texas landscape and tree canopies.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Texas History
Much of the park's infrastructure, including trails and some buildings, was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression. These historic CCC trails are still a significant feature of the park, offering visitors a chance to walk through history. The park is also part of the Mother Neff State Park and F.A.S. 21-B(1) Historic District, recognized for its historical significance.
Exploring Mother Neff is not just about nature; it's an immersion into the early days of Texas state park preservation. The welcome center provides informative exhibits detailing its unique backstory and how it earned its name.
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
Visitors often highlight the cave as a must-see feature, accessible via one of the park's trails. However, it's important to be prepared for the natural inhabitants of this area. Many reviewers mention encountering a significant number of spiders, particularly daddy longlegs, often found in webs across the trails or clustered in the cave.
While the park is smaller than some others, its trail system is well-connected, allowing for exploration of its historical CCC paths and natural beauty. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and stay aware of your surroundings, especially regarding wildlife.
Camping and Amenities
Due to its popularity and the quality of its amenities, campsites tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons and weekends. It is strongly advised to make reservations well in advance to secure a spot.
The park also provides essential facilities like restrooms, which are noted for their cleanliness. While bikes are not permitted on the hiking trails, the overall camping experience is highly rated for its comfort and convenience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit