Arbor Hills Nature Preserve
A 200-acre urban oasis in Plano, TX, offering diverse trails, a playground, and scenic views from an observation tower.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful nature escape
Arbor Hills Nature Preserve
Best Time
Peaceful nature escape
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 200-acre urban oasis in Plano, TX, offering diverse trails, a playground, and scenic views from an observation tower.
"Beautiful and serene, with concrete paths and even better unpaved trails for amazing photo opportunities."
Bring your camera! :camera_with_flash:
Golden hour and wildflower blooms offer incredible photo ops.
Check for events :calendar:
Sometimes there are volunteer clean-ups or nature walks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Observation Tower
Central area
Panoramic views of the preserve and surrounding Plano. Perfect for sunset!
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Wildflower Blooms
Various meadows
In spring, the preserve bursts with color from native wildflowers like bluebonnets.
Diverse Trails
Throughout the preserve
Miles of paved and unpaved paths for walking, running, and biking.
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Playground & Picnic Areas
Near main entrance
Family-friendly amenities make it a great spot for kids and gatherings.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Etiquette & Preservation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring your camera! :camera_with_flash:
Golden hour and wildflower blooms offer incredible photo ops.
Check for events :calendar:
Sometimes there are volunteer clean-ups or nature walks.
Wear comfy shoes :athletic_shoe:
Paved and unpaved trails offer variety, so choose footwear accordingly.
Ice cream treat! :ice_cream:
An ice cream truck is often parked near the restrooms in the afternoons.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring your camera! :camera_with_flash:
Golden hour and wildflower blooms offer incredible photo ops.
Check for events :calendar:
Sometimes there are volunteer clean-ups or nature walks.
Wear comfy shoes :athletic_shoe:
Paved and unpaved trails offer variety, so choose footwear accordingly.
Ice cream treat! :ice_cream:
An ice cream truck is often parked near the restrooms in the afternoons.
Dog-friendly :dog:
Poop bags are provided along the main paths for your furry friends.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Arbor Hills Nature Preserve for its diverse habitats, well-maintained trails suitable for all accessibility needs, and beautiful natural scenery, especially during spring wildflower blooms. The observation tower and the convenience of an ice cream truck add to the positive experience, though some note the restrooms could be better maintained.
"This park is on a smaller scale, but diverse. There are three types of habitats, with various fauna and flora. The paths are well maintained, easily accessible by strollers, or wheelchairs. There are bike trails.
We walked the cca 2-mile loop in about 40 minutes, but there are more paths for longer walks. There are occasional elevation changes.
The restrooms are not the best looking, but had soap, water and toilet paper.
The best feature is the ice cream truck positioned at the parking lot. The parking lot is quite large, for about 100 vehicles."
Jana McLaughlin
"I visited Arbor Hills today. I used to frequent this area just to spend time in nature and enjoy my walk. I haven’t been to this area in a while until today because I moved out of the area. But today was a special day because I decided to come back and visit this beautiful nature preserve.
Indeed, Arbor Hills is a nature preserve. As you’re walking this season, you will notice the beautiful grassy plains swaying in the wind. There are an abundant of trails that you can take to explore different areas of the preserve. It is a great place to casually ride your bike and is also a popular destination for photography.
The nature preserve also has a well equipped playground for children to play and bathrooms for men and women and a family bathroom. There is also a picnic area that you can reserve to have gatherings.
Arbor Hills is a great place to walk your dog as they provide poop bags along the main path.
After finishing your walks and explorations, treat yourself to some ice cream from the ice cream truck that usually is parked near the restrooms in the afternoons, ready to happily serve customers."
Adam Drilon
"I visited Arbor Hills 2 days ago. I discovered this area for walking and spending some good times in the evening. This place is good for enjoying sunset, walking, walking dogs, jogging, and cycling, and it is kids friendly. It is preserved by nature. You will pass by exotic species of vegetation, bridge, creek, playground, etc! They also have an observation tower where it is located in high elevation, and you can see beautiful sunset and view from there!!
There is an abundance of trail, where you'll discover beautiful nature. All the trails will meet at one end, finally! It is a great destination for cycling, chilling out, and even photography!!
They have a kids friendly playground, and they have safe and clean washrooms. You can also reserve/book a picnic spot to have a union or gatherings. This place is pet friendly as well.
After finishing the long walk, sighting a best view, you can also treat yourself to some refreshing ice cream 🍨 usually parked near the main parking area or near restrooms, mostly in the afternoons.
(P.s. I have spammed the photos for you guys, enjoyyyy 😁😁)"
Ishika Wade
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is located at 6701 W Parker Rd, Plano, TX 75093. It's easily accessible by car, with a large parking lot available.
Yes, there is a spacious parking lot that can accommodate around 100 vehicles. Parking is free.
Information on public transportation routes to Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is limited, but driving is the most common and convenient method.
The paved paths are well-maintained and suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, making it accessible for many visitors.
The preserve is generally open from 5 am to 11 pm, with a slightly later opening on Wednesdays at 2 pm.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry and parking at Arbor Hills Nature Preserve are completely free.
There is no admission fee to enter Arbor Hills Nature Preserve. It's a public park for everyone to enjoy.
Yes, picnic areas are available and can be reserved for gatherings and events.
Yes, public restrooms are available within the preserve, including a family restroom. They are generally clean and stocked.
Information on booking picnic pavilions can typically be found on the City of Plano's parks and recreation website.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Arbor Hills offers a mix of paved trails for easy walking and unpaved, natural trails for a more immersive experience. There's also a dedicated off-road cycling trail.
Yes, with its diverse habitats, Arbor Hills is a great spot for bird watching and spotting various wildlife.
Absolutely! There's a 2.8-mile off-road cycling trail, and the paved paths are also suitable for casual biking.
The preserve features a well-equipped playground, making it a fun destination for families with children.
Early mornings and late evenings, especially during golden hour, offer beautiful lighting for photography. Springtime is also ideal for capturing wildflowers. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within the preserve itself. However, an ice cream truck is often present in the afternoons near the parking lot or restrooms.
Yes, you can bring your own food. There are picnic pavilions available for gatherings, and you can also enjoy a picnic on the grounds.
Being in Plano, there are numerous restaurants and dining options available just a short drive away from the preserve.
The primary food offering within the preserve is the occasional ice cream truck. For more substantial meals, you'll need to venture outside the park.
While not explicitly mentioned, it's always a good idea to bring your own water bottle, especially during warmer months.
📸 📸 Photography
The observation tower offers panoramic views, while the meadows are perfect for capturing wildflowers in spring. The natural trails also provide beautiful backdrops. +1
Golden hour, the period shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provides the most flattering light. Early mornings are also less crowded.
One user shared a drone video, suggesting it might be permitted, but it's always best to check local regulations or with the park authorities before flying a drone.
It's ideal for nature photography, landscape shots, wildlife, and even portraits, especially during spring blooms or sunset.
Focus on capturing the interplay of light and shadow, the textures of the natural environment, and the vibrant colors of the wildflowers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated pavilions, which can be reserved for gatherings. This allows for a full day of outdoor fun without needing to leave the park for meals. The availability of restrooms adds to the convenience for families on the go.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Springtime is a must-visit for its wildflower blooms, which create stunning natural backdrops for portraits and nature photography. The diverse trails also offer varied scenery, from wooded areas to open meadows, ensuring a dynamic portfolio.
🚴 Cyclists and Runners
In addition to the off-road trail, the paved pathways are excellent for road cycling, jogging, and running. The variety of trails allows for different intensity levels and scenic routes, making it a popular choice for fitness enthusiasts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
+1Cyclists will appreciate the dedicated 2.8-mile off-road cycling trail, offering a more rugged biking experience. The trails are generally well-maintained, though some unpaved sections can become muddy after rain. It's recommended to wear appropriate footwear, especially if you plan to explore the natural surface trails.
Many of the trails converge, allowing for flexible route planning. Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a longer hike, Arbor Hills offers options for everyone to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Wildlife and Flora
During the spring months, the preserve is particularly stunning due to the blooming of native wildflowers. Bluebonnets and other colorful species transform the meadows into vibrant carpets of color, attracting photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
While the preserve is designed to protect these natural elements, it's important for visitors to stay on marked trails to minimize disturbance to the habitats and wildlife. Volunteers actively work to maintain the native plant life and remove invasive species, contributing to the preserve's ecological health.
Family Fun and Amenities
+1Beyond the playground, the preserve offers picnic pavilions that can be reserved for family gatherings, birthday parties, or group outings. This makes it an ideal spot for a relaxed outdoor meal surrounded by nature.
Additionally, the presence of restrooms, including a family restroom, adds to the convenience for families visiting the park. The accessibility of the paved trails also ensures that families with strollers or young children can easily navigate the preserve.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit