This morning, I thought we might get into the car and take a drive out to Bonham State Park which is about 1hour and 35 minutes. If you leave early the kids will sleep and on the way you can stop and have breakfast. Or to save money bring breakfast and stop at a Park along the way and have a Picnic and let the kids run around to get some of there energy out before heading on your way.
Bonham Beauty is Northeast of Dallas and it is a small park filled with natural beauty. At Bonham State Park, there is a65-acre Kake, hilly Trails to hike on, the Park is full of colorful history and a nice quiet place to relax.
Things to Do
Bring the family and the Dog if you don’t mind traveling with a Dog and spend the day or the weekend if you can get the time off. Here you will find
- Camping
- Hiking and biking
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Swimming
- Geocaching
- Nature watching
If you plan to Swim or Paddle, follow all Water Safety Rules and bring Life Jackets for the children.
The Civilian Conservation Corps created this park during the Depression which you can learn more about here CCC’s work here.
Camping
With Charlie wanting to Campout this year there is over 20 campsites ranging from full hookups to tent sites with water and electricity. Restrooms with showers are across from headquarters.
Hiking and biking
If we still had our Bikes and David had purchased the bike he has been wanting we could explore 8.75 miles of Trails, which are open to Hikers and Bikers: Instead we will Hike the trails which will allow me to get my steps in which I need to do everyday. If you would like to come with us to prepare for the hike check out Trails Information page.
For additional homeschool lessons our students can learn about the Park’s Plant Life on the easy 1.3-mile Lake Loop Trail. Or explore the CCC’s legacy on the challenging 2.7-mile Bois d’Arc Trail.
Fishing
I know David would like to Fish and I can see David dropping a line in the 65-acre Bonham State Park Lake. I like knowing we can bring our own gear or borrow a line and pole but you will still need to provide your own Bait.
There is a fishing pier and boat ramp and the lake has a 5-mph speed limit.
Paddling
You can bring your own Watercraft or rent a rent Paddle Boat, Kayaks or Canoes from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily, weather permitting.
Groups
If you are part of a Homeschool Group you can reserve the group site and choose from two options for overnight stays. The barracks with group hall and kitchen can hold up to 94 people; up to 50 people can stay at our group camp.
Reserve the pavilion for a daytime gathering of up to 75 people.
Shopping
Shop for gifts and Souvenirs at the Park store
Get involved!
Ask at headquarters how you can help. Or you can:
Check out the Ranger Programs on the Nature and History of the Park and for more information check out the Events page for the schedule. If you want to bring a Homeschool group out contact the park to arrange programs for your group.
Connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.
Kids
Become a Junior Ranger!
- Borrow an Explorer Pack loaded with tools.
- Pick up a free Junior Ranger Activity Journal | PDF and complete tasks to earn a badge.
Area Attractions
The City of Bonham was the home of Sam Rayburn, the longest-running U.S. Speaker of the House. Bonham has Museums, Restaurants, groceries and more.
The Eisenhower Birthplace and Sam Bell Maxey House State Historic sites are nearby.
1363 State Park 24
Bonham, TX 75418-9285
Entrance Fees
- Adult: $4 Daily
- Child 12 Years and Under: Free
- School-Sponsored Group: Contact the Park
Hours
Open daily. 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Office Hours: 8:15 a.m. – 4:45 p.m
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
