About OAK PARK (WRIGHT PATMAN LAKE)
Overview Oak Park is a day use area located just below the dam on Wright Patman Lake in northeastern Texas. Its picnic shelter and ball fields make it a great location for larger groups and special events. Recreation This facility is a relaxing and spacious location for group gatherings and picnics. Wright Patman Lake hosts a wide range of recreational activities to allow visitors to get outdoors and enjoy the area, including boating, fishing, hunting, hiking, picnicking and wildlife viewing. Several boating, fishing and swimming facilities can be accessed in nearby parks around the lake. Anglers enjoy fishing for bass, catfish, crappie and sunfish. A model airplane flying field is located next to the park.Facilities Oak Park offers one group day-use picnic shelter with water and electric hookups. Several family picnic sites are available on a first come, first served basis. A swing set, sand volleyball court and baseball diamond are located next to the shelter. No swim beach is available in the park.Natural Features Oak Park is named for its large oak trees that create a peaceful, nostalgic setting and shade for picnickers. Though it is not directly on the waterfront, the shelter is a short walk or drive from the scenic shoreline. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages approximately 55,000 acres of public forestland around the lake, providing habitat for wild turkey, bobwhite quail, squirrel, white-tailed deer, migrating bald eagles, pelicans and ducks and other waterfowl. Some poisonous snakes inhabit the area. Nearby Attractions The Texarkana region is full of activities such as shopping, movies, restaurants and local historical sites. Shreveport, Louisiana offers river boat gambling, horse races and numerous festivals, including the Four State Fair and Rodeo and the Jump, Jive and Jam Festival.
How to Get There
From Texarkana, take U.S. Highway 59 south for approximately 12 miles. Turn right at the sign for Wright Patman Lake. Follow the park road to the dam; turn left and proceed to the next intersection. Turn left again, and follow the road to the park.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to OAK PARK (WRIGHT PATMAN LAKE)
Heading to OAK PARK (WRIGHT PATMAN LAKE)? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for OAK PARK (WRIGHT PATMAN LAKE)?
No central reservation system listed for OAK PARK (WRIGHT PATMAN LAKE). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233951) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to OAK PARK (WRIGHT PATMAN LAKE)?
From Texarkana, take U.S. Highway 59 south for approximately 12 miles. Turn right at the sign for Wright Patman Lake. Follow the park road to the dam; turn left and proceed to the next intersection. Turn left again, and follow the road to the park.
How do I contact OAK PARK (WRIGHT PATMAN LAKE)?
You can reach the park at phone: 903-838-8781.
References & Official Resources
