Lake Country
2022-2023
Vacation Guide
FEATURING
POSSUM KINGDOM LAKE • GRAHAM BRECKENRIDGE • JACKSBORO AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS
F
FIND YOUR
N
IN THE SUN We have local expert real estate agents who know how to help you find just what you’re looking for at Possum Kingdom Lake and beyond.
Start your search at williamstrewlakefront.com
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2022-2023 • 2 • LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE
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LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE • 3 • 2022-2023
What to do CELEBRATE WITH A REAL "BANG" AT POSSUM KINGDOM LAKE
8
TAKE A BITE OUT OF LIFE IN GRAHAM
10
A REEL GOOD TIME IN BRECKENRIDGE
12
A POP OF FUN IN JACKSBORO
14
Lake Fun POSSUM KINGDOM LAKE
18
LAKE GRAHAM & LAKE EDDLEMAN
22
LAKE HUBBARD CREEK
26
JACKSBORO'S TWIN LAKES
28
Camping POSSUM KINGDOM LAKE / GRAHAM
30
BRECKENRIDGE / JACKSBORO
31
Parks
32 & 33
The Lake Country Vacation Guide is produced by Palo Pinto Communications, LP. Publisher/Design Kylie Bailey
Hwy. 16 Bridge on the Brazos River.
GUIDE CONTRIBUTORS Thomas Wallner, Mike Williams, Brian Smith, Ron Sampsel
PHOTOGRAPHY Thomas Wallner, Mike Williams, Brian Smith, Ron Sampsel ADVERTISING Krystin Stell
Possum Kingdom Lake’s Premier Real Estate Company.
PonderaPK.com 1406 Park Road 36 • Graford, TX 76449 (940) 779-2600 ©2022 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.
LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE • 5 • 2022-2023
WHAT TO DO
Events
IN THE LAKE COUNTRY
Just swim! Serving Graham, Possum Kingdom Lake and the Surrounding Areas
We offer a variety of services to make your pool more enjoyable. We pride ourselves in servicing some of the finest homes and resorts on Possum Kingdom Lake and the surrounding areas. With over 25 years experience in the pool industry, we have the answers! For exceptional service and customer satisfaction, call Lake Ridge Pool Service today.
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Celebrate with a real "Bang!"
FIREWORKS AT
Hell's Gate The Possum Kingdom Chamber of Commerce will present its annual Hell's Gate fireworks show from Saturday, July 9 at YMCA Camp Grady Spruce. The fireworks show usually climaxes with the spectacular "Waterfall of Fire" across the Hell's Gate entrance. The show can be viewed by boat or from YMCA Camp Grady Spruce, located at the end of Park Road 36. Note that the Brazos River Authority lake rangers generally close the entrance through the bluffs that form Hell's Gate. For those wishing to watch the show on dry land, YMCA Camp Grady Spruce offers a front-row view, since it's directly across from Hell's Gate. The entry fee is $5 per person over the age of 3 and the show usually starts just after sunset. The YMCA Camp area will not be accessible by boat.
Also provided throughout the event will be entertainment, children's activities, concessions and lots of fun. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket and picnic. There is ample parking and plenty of room for the whole family. Alcoholic beverages and pets are strictly prohibited. Limited premium/ private seating is also available at the camp. According to the organizers, the fireworks show is funded solely by donations, and they are seeking help to pay the $35,000 for the show. The chamber has set up a donation page on its website at possumkingdomlake.com. Donations can be made using most credit cards or by checks mailed to the chamber at 362 N. FM 2353, Graford, TX 76449. Donations can also be made by calling 940-7792424.
TAKE A BITE OUT OF LIFE IN Graham About 25 miles northwest of Possum Kingdom Lake, the seventh annual Food Truck Championship of Texas will take place on America’s largest downtown square in Graham on the first Saturday in June.
Best Texas BBQ, Best International Dish, Best American Cuisine, Best Dessert, Best Food Truck Spirit, and Most Unique Menu.
Admission is free and the festival hours will be from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. or until the food runs out.
Each truck will serve a full menu, along with their signature dish. Average price ranges from $8 to $10 per item. Cash and/or credit cards will be accepted.
Additionally, there will be a live concert later that evening at the Young County Arena, which is located at 120 Barclay Blvd. off of Hwy. 380.
Other events that same day include the Possum Pedal Bike Ride, live music, children’s activities and an art show featuring artists from art guilds in the surrounding areas.
As many as 50 food trucks from all over Texas will compete for the largest food truck prize in Texas of $10,000. Other awards include: Best Signature Dish, People’s Choice, Best Truck Theme and Design,
Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket for a relaxing June day under the trees.
2022-2023 • 10 • LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE
Visit the event website for more information about the champion-
ship and live concert at foodtruckchampionshipoftexas.com. Possum Pedal
Before the Food Truck Championship of Texas gets underway, crowds will gather in downtown Graham for the annual Possum Pedal Bicycle Ride. The bicycle ride will start at 7 a.m. the morning of the competition. Rest stops are plentiful and ride support is strong. All participants should carry water, but water, fruit and snacks will also be provided at each rest stop. Additionally, all participants must wear a helmet. More information at possumpedal. com.
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LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE • 11 • 2022-2023
A REEL GOOD TIME IN
Breckenridge
It is boating season. With water at about 60 degrees and largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish present, it is a great time to get on the waters. On Sandy, Hubbard, and Brushy Creek in Stephens County, individuals can have their fish and eat them too. With Hubbard Creek located 51 miles northeast of Abilene and about five miles west of Breckenridge, the upcoming months are perfect to go fishing. According to Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPWD), the predominant fish species on the reservoir are largemouth bass, white crappie, channel, flathead and blue catfish, white bass and freshwater drum. Florida largemouth bass were introduced into the body of water in 1979. Late fall and winter, the reservoir is expected to be full, with white crappie and white bass fishing in Hubbard and Sandy Creeks. Hubbard Creek Lake is also a popular destination for largemouth bass and the lake has a good population of catfish, especially blue catfish. According to the TPWD, Hubbard Creek Lake has abundant standing timber, brush, boat docks, black willow trees, buttonbush, and aquatic vegetation. Rocky structure and cover are also abundant. The TPWD website provides effective techniques during this time of the year, one of which is to locate 2022-2023 • 12 • LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE
brush in 10-15 feet of water in the creek channel and vertically fish a minnow or small jig. Hubbard Creek Lake is also effectively fished using crankbaits and topwater lures. During late summer and early fall, schools of largemouth and white bass will often feed on the surface around the Tanglewood Island area. Drift fishing shad during the summer is a good technique for blue catfish. Flipping bulrush, standing timber, and the brush is very effective for largemouth bass, according to TPWD. With the weather heating up, and the sunny days approaching, now is a better time than ever to get out on the waters and fish.
Hubbard Creek Reservoir
FISHING RECORDS All Ages Rod & Reel
Species Bass, Hybrid Striped Bass, Largemouth Bass, White Sunfish, Bluegill Buffalo, Smallmouth Carp, Common Catfish, Blue Catfish, Channel Catfish, Flathead Crappie, White Drum, Freshwater
Bow Fishing
Species Buffalo, Smallmouth Carp, Common Gar, Longnose Gar, Spotted
Junior Anglers Rod & Reel Species Bass, Largemouth Bass, White Sunfish, Bluegill Carp, Common Catfish, Channel Crappie, White Drum, Freshwater Sunfish, Longear
Bow Fishing
Species Buffalo, Smallmouth Carp, Common Gar, Longnose Gar, Spotted
Weight 12.52 12.93 2.40 0.50 13.64 14.70 63.40 10.05 46.40 2.43 0.80
Length 27.00 27.50 17.75 8.00 28.00 30.00 48.00 0.00 48.50 0.00 12.50
Date 5/18/96 3/26/11 11/24/17 11/5/17 4/7/96 8/18/17 1/7/18 9/26/21 3/15/12 3/17/08 6/13/09
Weight 10.65 10.88 25.50 8.70
Length 25.00 28.00 57.50 36.75
Date 6/29/09 7/16/16 3/19/17 5/28/17
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Weight 9.90 1.20 0.24 14.70 10.05 2.43 0.80 0.14
Length 25.50 14.00 6.50 30.00 0.00 0.00 12.50 5.25
Date 10/12/13 5/26/17 5/17/09 8/18/17 9/26/21 3/17/08 6/13/09 5/17/09
Weight 6.46 5.16 19.98 2.22
Length 21.75 22.25 55.25 24.75
Date 7/22/03 7/22/03 7/31/03 7/22/03
Source: Texas Parks & Wildlife
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LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE • 13 • 2022-2023
A POP OF FUN IN
Jacksboro
Jacksboro’s T-N-T Fest is the crowning jewel of celebrations in the city and is held the last Saturday in June every year. The day-long event, held at or near Lake Jacksboro, has a number of attractions including a snake show, several tournaments including a corn hole tournament, a baseball tournament, and new to this year's event is a pickleball tournament. The athletic tournaments continue for the youth as a baseball tournament with several age divisions comes to town. In previous years, around 5,000 players, coaches and fans have come to town to support their team. For the little ones who want a little less competition, there is also a bounce house to get their energy out. After some time off, a BBQ cook-off, sponsored by the Jacksboro Fire Department. For the much younger set, the Baby Beautiful contest is a crowd favorite with people setting up 45 minutes to an hour before to make sure they get a great view of the participants. Age groups make things fairer for all. Bands get toes tapping in the early 2022-2023 • 14 • LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE
evening. The big event of the festival is the annual fireworks display over Lake Jacksboro at sundown. It would not be an event of any type without food. All sorts of food and drink trucks and even vendors selling their handcrafted arts and crafts. Everything has gotten bigger and better with the food choices multiplying.
For those who want something a little lighter in the summer heat, there is always lemonade and snow cones. Lawn chairs are always a necessity at the event. Suncreen and bug spray are also recommended. More details on the event can be found on Facebook at Jacksboro TNT Fest.
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LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE • 15 • 2022-2023
LAKE FUN
Recreation
IN THE LAKE COUNTRY
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e•mer•gen•cy -noun
a sudden, urgent, usually unexpected occurance or occasion requiring immediate action
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Possum Kingdom Lake
Possum Kingdom Lake is a reservoir on the Brazos River which is famous for some of the most gorgeous and scenic shoreline views in the state including Hell’s Gate. The reservoir has a shoreline of 219 miles and an area of 16,716 acres which is filled with an abundance of large fish. According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife website, Striped bass are stocked and provide a fair fishery with good growth potential and strong fighting characteristics. The
2022-2023 • 18 • LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE
lake record is a 55.6 lb. catfish. White bass are abundant and of good size. Largemouth are also found in the Possum Kingdom reservoir. Floridastrain largemouths have been stocked and help provide trophy potential, as evidenced by the lake record of a 16.02-lb fish caught on rod and reel in 1989. Largemouth bass can be found throughout the lake and can be caught on any of the typical bass baits. Anglers should be prepared to fish 10 to 25-foot depths and use as light of a line as possible due
to the clear water. They should also concentrate on submerged vegetation when found. Striped bass anglers can look for birds feeding on bait driven to the surface by schools of hungry stripers. Striped bass are often caught using live shad or artificial bait. White bass action can be very good during prespawn and the spring spawning run, especially up towards the Brazos River mouth. Jigs and spoons or slabs are the recommended baits for White bass.
The Hell’s Gate Bass Club is a great way to get involved in competitive bass fishing. The club holds tournaments throughout the year. Each tournament points are awarded to fishers depending on their finish and their fish’s weights are recorded and accumulated with the rest of the year totals. At the end of the season, the leaders of the points and weight division are awarded a trophy. The club also hands out awards for Angler of the Year, Big Bass of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Champion of Champions and Youth Angler of the Year at the end of the season. Catfish action can be good for all species. Channel, blue and flathead catfish are all present, with some especially large blue cats. The largest fish ever recorded to be caught on Possum Kingdom Lake via rod and reel was a Blue Catfish in 2011 which weighed 55.6 lbs. A 30.9 lb. Flathead Catfish was recorded to be caught via rod and reel on the lake in 2018.
Costello Island and above are likely locations to catch catfish. Cut bait, chicken livers, prepared stink bait, live shiners and/or sunfish are recommended baits for catfish fishing. Possum Kingdom Lake is also home to the catfish tournament with the largest payout in the nation: the Possum Kingdom CatMasters. The 2022 CatMasters competition was held Jan. 21 and 22 at the PK Chamber of Commerce with a first place prize of $30,000 up for grabs. The event has a 200 boat capacity for the tournament and the rules allow a maximum of three people on the boat, with no age limits. For more information about the tournament, contact the organization at 325998-2191. Crappie can be found around brush piles and docks. Crappie will be found at different depths depending on time of year and water conditions. Many docks provide habitat for fish, as well as standing timber and
laydowns. Brush piles and artificial fish attractors have been placed in the Cedar Creek area of the reservoir. Anglers can use GPS in conjunction with a fish finder to locate these structures. Public Swimming Use Areas
For those who are looking to spend some time in the water, Possum Kingdom Lake also provides four different areas where a family can safely swim in a designated swimming area. The Brazos River Authority does not charge a fee for camping or day use from the second week in September through the second week in May. Fees for the summer months are charged on weekends only at the parks of North D&D and Sandy Beach. North D&D park is available for both camping and day use while Sandy Beach park is available for day use only from 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Access to these two parks is $3 per day per persons 13 years of age and LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE • 19 • 2022-2023
older. Children 12 and under are free. Camping sites are $10 per night per campsite. Sandy Beach, located at 2291 FM 2951, has a boat ramp, courtesy dock, a designated swimming area, children’s playground area, covered picnic tables, restrooms and shower facilities. Scenic Cove, located 3401 Scenic Point Road, is another great option where families can gather to go camping or have a picnic with access to a restroom. The area also has a boat ramp, courtesy dock, fishing pier and trailhead. There is no fee to access. North D&D, located 2051 FM 2951, has around 75 campsites with
a boat ramp, courtesy dock, covered picnic tables, swimming and playground areas and restroom and shower facilities. Bug Beach, located 2760 Frontier Unit Road, is the last place where a family can find a place to swim along with 10 campsites, a boat ramp, grills, picnic tables, trailheads and restrooms. There is no fee to access. Boating
With Possum Kingdom Lake’s size, length and beauty it provides one of the best lakes in Texas to go boating, skiing, tubing and wakeboarding. There are also several locations on the east side of the lake where an interested party can rent a
boat for a weekend or longer.
TPWD Fishing Requirements
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has a number of rules and regulations requiring a fishing license. Almost any person who takes or attempts to take fish, mussels, clams, crayfish or other aquatic life in the public waters of Texas must have a current Texas fishing license with the appropriate stamp endorsement. A saltwater endorsement is required to fish in coastal waters; a freshwater endorsement is required for inland waters. There are exceptions though. A fishing license is not required for people who:
• are under 17 years of age.
enter private land to fish in public water, without the permission of the owner or the owner’s agent.
• were born before January 1, 1931. • are a intellectually disabled person who is engaging in recreational fishing as part of a medically approved therapy, and who is fishing under the immediate supervision of personnel approved or employed by a hospital, residence or school for persons with an intellectual disability. The person with an intellectual disability must carry an authorization identifying the entity supplying the service. This authorization may be in the form of an I.D. card that contains the name of the sponsoring entity. • are a intellectually disabled person who is recreational fishing under the direct supervision of a licensed angler who is a family member or who has permission from the family to the intellectually disabled person fishing. • are fishing from the bank in a state park or in waters completely enclosed by a state park. All other fishing regulations, such as length and bag limits, remain in effect. • are fishing in privately owned lakes or ponds. For those fishing in public water from a private property, a fishing license is required. It is unlawful to fish on privately owned water, or
Possession of fish taken from public water
Any fish caught must be taken by legal means and methods. Fish caught and immediately released are not considered to be in possession. Any fish not immediately released which are retained by using any type of holding device such as a stringer, cooler, livewell or bucket are considered in possession and must adhere to established protected length and bag limits. While fishing, it is illegal to be in possession of fish which are within a protected length limit or more fish than the daily bag limit. Any fish taken from public water and landed by boat or person in Texas must adhere to the protected length limits and daily bag and possession limits established for those fish in Texas, regardless of the state or country in which they were caught. It is unlawful to leave edible fish or bait fish taken from public waters of the state to die without the intent to retain the fish for consumption or bait. For more information, visit tpwd.com.
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LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE • 21 • 2022-2023
Lake Graham & Lake Eddleman TWO LAKES AS ONE
On the Salt Creek in Young County lies two lakes connected by a single canal, Lake Graham and Eddleman. The two lakes were connected via a canal after June 1959 and serve as tributaries of the Brazos River. Eddleman Dam was built on Flint Creek in 1928 while the Graham Dam was built on Salt Creek in 1958. The construction on the Graham Dam started Sept. 17, 1956 and was completed in July 1958. Work began in 1957 and ended in 1958 to raise the height of the Eddleman Dam during the construction phase of the Graham Dam. Deliberate impoundment of water began April 28, 1958. Freese and Nichols served as the engineers on the project and Weldon C. Jourdan served as the general contractor. According to the Handbook of 2022-2023 • 22 • LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE
Texas Online, the lake was possibly named for brothers Edwin S. and Gustavus Graham, who purchased 125,000 acres of land near Graham in 1871. The top of the earth-filled dam is at an elevation of 1,093.3 feet above the mean sea level. The uncontrolled spillway is cut in the natural ground with a crest at an elevation of 1,076.3 feet above mean sea level. Lake fishing
The predominant fish species in the lake are largemouth bass, white and hybrid striped bass, channel catfish and white crappie. Largemouth bass, catfish and crappie are rated good for angling. Fishing for largemouth bass and crappie can depend on season and water level. Lake Graham is a power plant reservoir, but the plant operates only when demand is high, so it does not provide consistent winter fishing.
The hot-water discharge is located on the Eddleman portion of the reservoir. The lake offers a variety of cover including smartweed, bulrush, pondweed and lotus. Anglers can also find buttonbush, boat docks, riprap, standing timber, brush, and black willow trees. The shorelines of both lakes are rocky. The hot-water discharge is an excellent area to fish during the winter, especially for hybrid striped bass and white bass. Hybrid stripers are also consistently caught in the equalization channel between Graham and Eddleman and around the dam on the Graham side. For bass, with the variety of cover, a number of techniques can be productive, including flipping, dock fishing, topwater and spinnerbaits. Fishing events
The Graham High School fishing team, an extracurricular program, which is not recognized as an
actual Texas University Interscholastic League sport, is sponsored by assistant principal and boys soccer coach Tim Wankowicz. The program works with the Texas High School Bass Association in setting schedules and competitions against other groups from schools throughout Texoma. Teams are formed in pairs, with two anglers in a boat. The fishermen must be of high school age. Wankowicz said in a previous interview that teaching the club was a way for him to be able to share the love for fishing and to introduce the activity to other kids.
“I really wanted to be able to show an appreciation for the sport, wildlife and competition,” he said. “Meredith Lucas and her son Rob started it back when Rob was a freshman. They raised money and got team uniforms. They also did a lot of the leg work to get it started because he loves fishing. Since I love fishing and getting kids involved in things at school I said I’m all over this. Rob made the state tournament that year and won Rookie the Year for the entire state of Texas.” The club often spends hours in the fall practicing catching largemouth
bass, white bass and hybrid striped bass in Lake Graham and Eddleman to prepare for upcoming tournaments. Graham’s team competes in the West Division and has meets at Lake Texoma, Lake Granbury, Lake Whitney, Lake Lewisville and Possum Kingdom Lake. All rules and regulations are based on the THSBA rulebook and the Texas Parks and Wildlife restrictions. Access
There are three public boat ramps, one fishing pier, a picnic area, and
sites for primitive and improved camping. Shore fishing is limited to the area around the boat ramp on the Eddleman portion of the reservoir and along the U.S. 380 causeways.
area and space for about 10 vehicles. No fee is required and the ramp is open all year. This is a Texas Parks and Wildlife public ramp maintained by the city of Graham.
• Graham North: From Graham, take FM 61 west/north to FM 3003 and follow north for about two miles. There is a concrete ramp with lighted parking area and space for about 10 vehicles. No fee is required and the ramp is open all year. This is a Texas Parks and Wildlife public ramp maintained by the city of Graham.
• Eddleman: Located north of Graham just off of U.S. 380 on the Lake Eddleman portion of the reservoir. This roadside park includes a two-lane concrete ramp with lighted parking area and space for about 25 vehicles. This is Graham/ Eddleman’s most accessible ramp. There is no fee to launch. This Texas Parks and Wildlife public ramp is maintained by the city of Graham.
• Graham South: From Graham, take FM 61 west/north to FM 3003. A dirt road leads to the ramp on the southwest side of the lake. There is a concrete ramp with lighted parking
The Remembering Wyatt Dale Water Safety Awareness organization and the city of Graham created a life jacket loaner station at the
Life jackets
Lake Eddleman RV Park in Summer 2018. The station holds jackets of different sizes and the board the jackets hang from explains how to put on and properly wear a life jacket. Under the Texas Park and Wildlife safety requirements, all children under 13 years of age in or on a vessel under 26 feet in length must wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved wearable personal flotation device (PFD) while not at anchor, shore bound or aground. All vessels, including canoes and kayaks, must be equipped with one wearable PFD for each person on board. For more information about the types of life jackets and requirements, visit tpwd.texas.gov.
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2022-2023 • 24 • LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE
Relaxing Ranch Getaway Just South of Breckenridge, TX 254-559-2448
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3 Bedroom, 3 Bath Log Home sleeps 14 Plenty of room, Plenty of parking
Your source for PK Lake Information is at:
possumkingdomlake.com Call us at 940-779-2424 Visit us at:
362 N FM 2353 Possum Kingdom Lake, TX
22621
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D RENNAN R EALTY Lynell Drennan Broker/Owner
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LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE • 25 • 2022-2023
Lake Hubbard Creek SIMPLE LIFE ON THE LAKE
Settled in 1876, Stephens County is a midway point for major Texas cities. Dallas-Forth Worth, Wichita Falls, Lubbock, and Abilene are popular destinations traveling on route 183 or 180 in Texas. A quiet, peaceful destination that individuals will enjoy is known for the oil town boom in the early part of the 19th century. Breckenridge harbors nearly 2,000 oil wells and the oil and gas industry is a major part of the Stephens County economy. Although oil and gas is something that draws individuals to Brecken2022-2023 • 26 • LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE
ridge, the town is known for another popular feature. Lake Hubbard Creek is a popular destination for individuals looking for a traditional time on the lake.
the lake is about 100 miles long, with a surface area of 15,000 acres. This is no ordinary lake, as it is deep as 60 feet, the possibility of things to do at Lake Hubbard is endless.
Drive on the vintage brick road and head west, and in about 10 miles, citizens will run into a legendary location known for fishing, jet skiing, and boating.
The lake, sunny skies, and 90-degree weather makes for a popular destination for a family vacation.
These are a few of the activities individuals love about Lake Hubbard Creek. Living in Texas, one never knows when the weather will be perfect for a dip in the lake. Located in Breckenridge, Texas,
One of the largest businesses on the lake is the Sandy Creek Marina, the business thrives on the tourist who are attracted to the lake especially during those warm summer months. The summer getaway is known for the variety and the quantity of fish swimming in the lake.
According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Lake Hubbard Creek is known for its varied wildlife. Rather largemouth bass, catfish, or white crappie, the lake is filled with fish that can provide travelers with ample things to find in the lake. An inflow raised the water level of Lake Hubbard Creek Reservoir in 2016 and sufficiently allowed three boat ramps to be reopened to the public as boat ramps at Bob Clark Landing were available for the first time since 2012. Travel along the mile-long bridge, nine miles past downtown Breckenridge and visitors of the lake will load their boats onto Bob Clark Landing, located along U.S. 180, the landing dock was provided with federal
aid in sport fish restoration act project. The landing spot is sponsored by the West Central Texas Municipal Water District of Commerce Texas parks and wildlife department. The landing was provided by the United States Department of Interior; Fish and Wildlife Service. So grab your bathing suit, or shorts, and head down to Breckenridge to have a vacation on the lake.
Twin Lakes in Jacksboro Jack County is full of outdoor activity, as residents enjoy hunting and fishing throughout the year. Many folks like to fish at Lake Jacksboro, east of the city off of Hwy. 59. Others enjoy the outdoors at Fort Richardson State Park, off U.S. Hwy. 281. Fort Richardson still has several of its original buildings, which have been restored: the post hospital, the commanding officer’s quarters, a powered magazine, a morgue, commissary, a guard house and a bakery. Two other replicas make up the fort, including the officers’ and enlisted men’s barracks. The officers’ barracks now house the Interpretive Center.
Students use the park year-round for different field trips. Events happen on a regular basis to provide fun for the entire family. Activities at the Fort include historical study, picnicking, hiking, biking, day-use equestrian, nature study, swimming and fishing. The fort also offers camping, with both cabins and campsites available for reservations. Swimming is accessible from Lost Creek Reservoir Trail-way or by road. Read through the safety tips to ensure a safe time. Quarry Lake is stocked with catfish, trout and bass for those who enjoy fishing. Lost Creek Reservoir, the twin to Lake Jacksboro, offers camping. The Lost Creek Trailway connects the reservoir with Fort Richardson State Park. This approximately 10-mile hike, bike
and equestrian trail runs adjacent to the Fort and along Lost Creek, which is the main watershed for two lakes. The trail follows scenic Lost Creek and travels the east side of Lake Jacksboro and Lost Creek Reservoir. The trail crosses the dam at the reservoir and winds around the west side until it reaches the trailhead. It travels through the park with many shaded areas of pecan and oak trees. Most of the trail travels by the creek or lakes, which provide numerous opportunities to fish and swim. The 10foot wide trail has an improved surface of base material with four inches of screening materials which creates a smooth trail for many uses. Admission to the park is $4 for adults and children age 12 and under are free. More information can be be found at www.tpwd.texas.gov.
CAMPING
Outdoor Lodging IN THE LAKE COUNTRY
Possum Kingdom POSSUM KINGDOM STATE PARK 3901 St. Park Rd. 33 • Caddo, TX 76429 940.549.1803
• 61 RV parking spots– 20/30/50 AMP • Water, electric, & dump station • $20 nightly (non-peak) – $25 nightly (peak)* • 53 campsites with water, restrooms nearby • $12 nightly* • 10 primitive campsites (walk-in 50-150 yards) • Bathrooms 1/2 mile away • $10 nightly*
Graham LAKE EDDLEMAN CITY PARK 921 Highway 380 West Graham, TX 76450 940.549.0401 • 12 RV Parking Spots • Water, electric, & dump station • 30/50 AMP • $12 per day • No fee for tent camping.
*Plus daily entrance fee; $4/adult (13/older)
• • • •
YOUNG COUNTY ARENA 120 Barclay Blvd. Graham, TX 76450 940.521.0434 60 RV parking spots Water, electric, & dump station 20/30/50 AMP $25 per day
• • • •
KINDLEY CITY PARK 3695 Highway 380 West Graham, TX 76450 940.549.0401 10 RV parking spots Electric Only 20 AMP $10 per day
BRA PARK CAMPING Area #1 – Scenic Cove – No fee.
3401 Scenic Point Rd. • Graford, Texas 76449 • 21 campsites • Boat ramp, dock, picnic areas, restrooms
Area #2 – Downtown PK – No fee.
1718 Park Road 36 • Graford, Texas 76449 • 25 campsites • Picnic areas, no water access
Area #4 – North D&D – Fee on weekends/peak. • • • •
2051 FM 2951 • Graford, Texas 76449 70 campsites Boat ramp, dock, picnic areas Restrooms/shower facilities $3/person day-use – $10/night tent camping
Area #4 – South D&D – No fee.
2969 FM 2951 • Graford, Texas 76449 • 21 campsites • Boat ramp, dock, picnic areas, restrooms
Area #5 – Bug Beach – No fee.
2760 Frontier Unit Road • Graford, Texas 76449 • 10 campsites • Boat ramp, tables, fire pits, grills
Area #7 – River Park – No fee.
200 Red Bluff Road • Graford, Texas 76449 • 10 campsites • Picnic areas, restrooms
Area #8 – West Side Park – No fee.
5465 FM 1148 • Graham, Texas 76450 • 6 campsites • Boat ramp, tables, fire pits, grills
2022-2023 • 30 • LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE
Breckenridge
Jacksboro
LAKE HUBBARD CREEK
TWIN LAKES 1114 State Highway 59 Jacksboro, TX 76458 940.567.5468
North Park Pavilion (off Corley Ramp): • • • • •
2 RV hook-up sites $100 for 1, 2 or 3 days $150 deposit (refundable if cleaned up) Primitive camping for no fee. Primitive campsites are first come, first serve.
Bob Clark Landing:
• 2 RV hook-up sites • $100 for 1, 2 or 3 days • $150 deposit (refundable if cleaned up)
Peeler's Pier:
• Primitive camping for no fee. • Primitive campsites are first come, first serve.
LAKE DANIEL Park at Dam:
• Primitive camping for no fee. • Primitive campsites are first come, first serve.
• • • • •
$8 per night for non-electrical hookup $10 per night for electrical/water hookup 6 electric/water hookups 5 night limit Tents that do not need electric/water are free but still need a permit (activity center).
FORT RICHARDSON STATE PARK 228 State Park Road 61 Jacksboro, TX 76458 940.567.3506 Sites #1-4 in West Camping Loop:
• 4 full hook-up campsites (tents & RVs) • Water, sewer & electric hook-ups • 20/30/50 AMP • $25 nightly*
Sites in West Camping Loop:
• 19 campsites with electricity (tents & RVs) • Water & electric • 20/30/50 AMP • $22 nightly*
Sites in East Camping Loop:
• 18 campsites with electricity (tents & RVs) • Water & electric • 20/30 AMP • $20 nightly*
Sites in North Park:
• 10 campsites with water • $20 nightly*
Primitive Campsites (Hike-in): • 5 campsites with water • $10 nightly*
Group Camp (Scout Camp):
• 1 campsite (up to 50 people) • $15 nightly*
Overflow Campsites (non-reservable): • 11 campsites with water • $12 nightly*
*Plus daily entrance fee; $4/adult (13/older) LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE • 31 • 2022-2023
PARKS
FEELING
Outdoorsy?
Here you can find a list of family-friendly places, around the Lake Country, to get some fresh air.
Jacksboro Fort Richardson State Park
228 STATE PARK ROAD 61• JACKSBORO, TX 76458
Activities include historical study, picnicking, camping, hiking, biking, horseback riding, nature study, wading in the creek (seasonal), swimming (accessible via Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway or by road) and fishing. For anglers, Quarry Lake is stocked with catfish, bass and trout periodically during the year. Fishing equipment on loan for use in the park. For more information, visit tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/fort-richardson
Jacksboro Swimming Pool
126 SEWELL AVENUE • JACKSBORO, TX 76458
The Jacksboro Community Pool is used for many different things, such as open swim, swim lessons and private pool parties, but the most important function it serves is to be a place to make great memories. The pool is open every day, except Sunday, from June-August.
Breckenridge Breckenridge City Park
601 EAST WALKER STREET • BRECKENRIDGE, TX 76424
Features an 18-hole disc golf course and city swimming pool. The pool is open from May-August and offers swimming lanes, free swim and swimming lessons. For more information, visit breckenridgetx.gov/parks-recreation.
2022-2023 • 32 • LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE
Possum Kingdom Lake Possum Kingdom State Park
3901 STATE PARK ROAD 33 • CADDO, TX 76429
Possum Kingdom State Park offers fun on water and land. On water, you can swim, boat, fish, ski, scuba dive and snorkel. On land, you can camp, picnic, hike, bike, study nature and geocache. Stay overnight in one of our airconditioned cabins. If you’re a camper, choose one of our water and electricity sites, water-only sites, or primitive walk-in sites. Fish for largemouth, striped and white bass; channel and blue catfish; and white crappie. The park has a boat launch, fishing pier, and fish cleaning station. You do not need a fishing license to fish from shore in a state park. Possum Kingdom Lake has over 300 miles of shoreline and many scenic coves. For more information, visit tpwd.texas. gov/state-parks/possum-kingdom
YMCA: Camp Grady Spruce
3000 PARK ROAD 36 • GRAFORD, TX 76449
Summer programs offer outdoor water sports, in addition to "land sports" (unusual adaptations of mainstream games). The programs also include indoor recreation such as drama, arts and crafts, and cheer/dance. Specialized camping experiences are offered such as equestrian, sailing, Army Reserve, etc., in both summer camp and single day formats. The facility offers group, family, and individual programs. For more information, visit campgradyspruce.org
Graham Firemen's Park
CORNER OF HWY 67 AND FM 61 • GRAHAM, TX 76450
The park includes a road enclosing an open field. The road is 1/3 of a mile and doubles as a jogging track. A winding hiking trail is also about 1/3 of a mile long and extends to both sides of the water via a suspension bridge. The trail begins at the old pump station and terminates at the Salt Creek spillway. A 9-hole disc golf course is another trail amenity. A playground features climbing equipment, 3 child swings, 1 toddler swing, and 10 slides. The playground has other amusements including seesaws and other "motion" games, all on a large pea gravel surface.
Graham City Pool
CORNER OF INDIANA & FOURTH STREETS • GRAHAM, TX 76450
The pool covers eight thousand square feet and has striped racing lanes. It has diving boards but is not equipped for high dives. A waterpark slide is available for children. Other kid-friendly amenities are offered, such as a mist/splash zone. The pool also features a park designed for children, with swings, numerous climbing bars, and slides.
LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE • 33 • 2022-2023
Events in the Lake Country
2022-2023 • 34 • LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE
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LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE • 35 • 2022-2023
Events in the Lake Country
2022-2023 • 36 • LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE
MARLUC BELLA VITA RANCH on Lake Godstone V Possum Kingdom Lake Boat & RV Storage
35-Person Lodge Cabins Group Campgrounds Tentsites
2733 N. Highway 16 • Strawn, TX 76475 • 940-659-2060 4636 Halsell Ranch Road • Jacksboro, TX 76458 214.850.8778 • www.LakeGodstone.com
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www.breckenridgeamerican.com www.jacksboronewspapers.com 254-559-5412 940-567-2616 LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE • 37 • 2022-2023
Advertiser Index 40 Something Cowgirls..............................................................35
John R. Lindsey State Jail – MTC..........................................35
Air Smart............................................................................................11
Ken's Equipment and Custom Hose...................................35
Air Evac Lifeteam..........................................................................17
Lake Ridge Pool Service............................................................. 7
Capital Farm Credit.....................................................................37
Lazy TK Ranch.................................................................................25
City Drug Store...............................................................................37
Let Us Do It Landscaping.........................................................17
Copperleaf Properties................................................................35
Marluc Bella Vita Ranch...........................................................37
Custom Cabinets of Graham.................................................13
Martin Masonry.............................................................................37
Dairy Queen...................................................................................... 3
Palo Pinto Communications, LP............................................37
Double L Florist and Gift Boutique.....................................37
Palo Pinto General Hospital..............................Back Cover
Drennan Realty..............................................................................25
Pondera Properties........................................................................ 5
First Financial Bankshares........................................................15
Possum Kingdom Chamber of Commerce.....................25
First National Bank......................................................................24
Smith Corner....................................................................................15
Gibson Realty Group.................................................................11
Stephens Memorial Hospital..................................................21
Groves Mechanical......................................................................25
The Boat Ranch..............................................................................37
Jacksboro National Bank......................Inside Back Cover
Williams Trew Real Estate.................... Inside Front Cover
Fall photo of Park Road 36. 2022-2023 • 38 • LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE
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LAKE COUNTRY VACATION GUIDE • 39 • 2022-2023
22515