Cameron Park
A sprawling 400-acre natural oasis in Waco, TX, featuring diverse trails, river access, playgrounds, and the beloved Cameron Park Zoo.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Cameron Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling 400-acre natural oasis in Waco, TX, featuring diverse trails, river access, playgrounds, and the beloved Cameron Park Zoo.
"This was the most beautiful park! It had a walking trail that extended for roughly 3 miles next to the river."
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Trails are unpaved and can be challenging. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
Explore beyond the main paths :evergreen_tree:
Venture into inner areas like the bamboo forest for a more secluded experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Brazos River Trails
Various access points along the Brazos River
Scenic trails winding along the river, offering stunning views and diverse terrain for hikers and bikers.
Hidden Bamboo Forest
Inner park areas
Discover a unique, secluded bamboo forest offering a tranquil escape and a sense of adventure.
Cameron Park Zoo
Within Cameron Park
A family-friendly attraction with diverse animal exhibits, perfect for a fun-filled day out.
Mountain Biking Trails
Designated MTB trails
Challenging and rewarding trails for mountain bikers, with ratings from green to double-diamond.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Safety
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Trails are unpaved and can be challenging. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
Explore beyond the main paths :evergreen_tree:
Venture into inner areas like the bamboo forest for a more secluded experience.
Check trail difficulty :mountain_cableway:
Trails are rated like ski slopes. Choose based on your fitness and experience level.
Pack water & snacks :water_buffalo:
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially on longer hikes or bike rides.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Trails are unpaved and can be challenging. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
Explore beyond the main paths :evergreen_tree:
Venture into inner areas like the bamboo forest for a more secluded experience.
Check trail difficulty :mountain_cableway:
Trails are rated like ski slopes. Choose based on your fitness and experience level.
Pack water & snacks :water_buffalo:
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially on longer hikes or bike rides.
Dog-friendly fun :dog:
Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails, making it a great spot for furry friends. +1
Zoo for all ages :zoo:
Cameron Park Zoo is a must-visit for families, offering engaging exhibits. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Cameron Park's extensive trail network, offering stunning Brazos River views and challenging terrain for hikers and mountain bikers. The park is praised for its natural beauty, including a unique bamboo forest, and family-friendly attractions like the zoo. While generally well-maintained, some find trail signage could be improved for runners.
"Vast trail network with biking trails ranging from green to double-diamond, plenty of great views along the Brazos. I would recommend parking near the playground/bridge or baseball area since usually other spots down the river are full. Be sure to checkout the inner areas, such as the hidden bamboo forest, and beware that even the diamond trails can be challenging for some mountain bikers."
Kishan Patel
"Great place for hiking and biking. Trails are unpaved, pretty well marked, and use ski-slope rating for difficulty (green dot, blue square, etc ). There are pavilions and toilets at the trail heads."
Paul LoBue
"It was very pretty, but I am training for a marathon so I was hoping what I was told were running trails would have been smoother and had better signs for people like me who are direction challenged. Great for mountain biking or hiking! When I finally made it to the lake , I was much more comfortable, but most of that trail was concrete which is hard on the body. A huge shout out to Adam who ran some with me!"
Shelly Elaine
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cameron Park is located in Waco, Texas. You can access it via various entrances off of University Parks Drive and North University Parks Drive. Driving is the most common way to reach the park, with ample parking available at different trailheads and attractions. +1
Public transportation options to Cameron Park are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach the park and its various sections.
Parking can be busy, especially on weekends. Consider parking near the playground/bridge or baseball area for access to popular trails. Exploring other access points might offer more availability.
Yes, you can drive through parts of Cameron Park, offering scenic views and access to different areas without extensive walking. It's a great way to see the park's beauty.
While Cameron Park itself doesn't have RV parks, there are RV accommodations in and around the Waco area. It's advisable to search for 'RV parks Cameron Park CA' or 'RV parks Waco TX' for options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cameron Park itself is generally free to enter and explore. However, specific attractions within the park, like the Cameron Park Zoo, may have separate admission fees.
Cameron Park is typically open from dawn to dusk. The Cameron Park Zoo has its own specific operating hours, which vary by season. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
It's recommended to check the Cameron Park Zoo's official website for information on advance ticket purchases, especially during peak seasons or special events like WildLights.
Yes, Cameron Park hosts various events throughout the year, including WildLights during the holidays and other community gatherings. Keep an eye on local event listings for updates.
While many trails are unpaved, some areas and paved paths may offer accessibility. The zoo also strives to be accessible. It's advisable to contact park management or the zoo directly for specific accessibility details.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Cameron Park offers a vast network of unpaved trails. Popular choices include those along the Brazos River for scenic views and inner trails like the 'hidden bamboo forest.' Trail difficulty is rated from green to double-diamond.
Absolutely! Cameron Park is a renowned spot for mountain biking, featuring trails that cater to all skill levels, from beginner-friendly green trails to challenging double-diamond routes. +1
Yes, Cameron Park features playgrounds, making it a great destination for families with children. 
Cameron Park has pavilions and scenic spots perfect for picnics. It's a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors and the beautiful surroundings.
While many visitors hike alone, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, stick to marked trails, and inform someone of your plans. The park is generally considered safe, but caution is advised.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Cameron Park itself does not have restaurants within its boundaries. However, the Cameron Park Zoo may have concessions. You'll find a variety of dining options in the surrounding Waco area.
Waco offers a diverse culinary scene. Nearby options include barbecue joints like Helberg Barbecue, and casual eateries. For coffee lovers, Moonraker Coffee is a popular spot.
Yes, Cameron Park has several picnic areas and pavilions, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic or a leisurely outdoor meal.
Bringing your own food for a picnic is a great idea and is permitted in designated areas of Cameron Park.
While not directly within the park's natural areas, Moonraker Coffee is located in the Cameron Park area and is a popular spot for locals and visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The Brazos River banks offer stunning natural beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset. The hidden bamboo forest provides a unique, atmospheric backdrop. Don't miss the scenic overlooks for panoramic views.
Absolutely! The rolling hills, river views, and diverse flora make Cameron Park a fantastic location for landscape photography. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic opportunities.
Yes, the Cameron Park Zoo is a great place for wildlife photography. Remember to be respectful of the animals and follow any posted photography guidelines. +1
The 'golden hour' just after sunrise and before sunset provides the most beautiful, soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but offers good opportunities in shaded areas.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check with park authorities if you have specific professional photography plans.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many designated picnic areas, making for a full day of affordable family fun. 🚵 Mountain Bikers
🚶 Hikers & Runners
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails: Hiking & Biking Paradise
For hikers, the park provides opportunities for leisurely strolls or more strenuous workouts. The Highlander Trail is mentioned as a challenging option, and the park's inner areas hide gems like a secluded bamboo forest, offering a unique and tranquil experience.
Mountain bikers will find Cameron Park a thrilling destination. The downhill sections are often praised for making the climbs worthwhile.
Family Fun at Cameron Park Zoo
Visitors can expect to see a variety of species, and the zoo is often highlighted as a budget-friendly option for family entertainment.
Beyond the zoo, the park's playgrounds and open spaces make it an ideal destination for a family day out.
+1 Combining a visit to the zoo with a picnic or a short walk in the park offers a well-rounded family adventure. Cameron Park: A Community Hub
Beyond organized events, the park is a popular spot for casual recreation. Disc golf is a notable activity, with many players frequenting the park's course.
The park also provides pavilions and restrooms at trailheads, enhancing the visitor experience for those enjoying the outdoors. Social media often captures the lively atmosphere of Cameron Park, from weekly runs to community block parties.
The park's natural beauty, combined with its recreational facilities, makes it a cherished local landmark and a key destination for exploring Waco.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit