About HIGH VIEW
Overview High View Park is on a long peninsula on the western shore of Bardwell Lake, less than an hour south of the Dallas-Fort Worth area in north-central Texas. Recreation Many local fishermen consider Bardwell Lake one of the best kept secrets in the state. Bass fishermen seldom leave empty-handed. Crappie fishing is moderate, and catfish are usually excellent. Facilities High View Park offers campsites with water and 50-amp electric hookups, and 30-amp electric hookups, picnic sites and one reservable Day Use group picnic pavilion, accommodating up to 50 people.A four-lane boat ramp and a courtesy dock make access to the lake easy. While public restrooms with showers help provide a comfortable camping experience. Natural Features The park is grassy and partially forested with a mix of shade and sun. The lake's cool, blue water provides a refreshing break from the Texas heat, while bluebonnets and other wildflowers surround the lakeshore each spring. Nearby Attractions Numerous amenities, as well as cultural and historical attractions, lie in the nearby cities of Dallas and Fort Worth.
How to Get There
From Ennis, Texas: From Interstate 45, exit onto U.S. Highway 287 Bypass (Exit #247). Travel 4.5 miles and exit at the Bardwell Lake exit sign. Turn left onto Highway 34 and go 2.5 miles southwest. After crossing the Bardwell Lake bridge, take the first left onto High View Park Road. Travel 0.2-mile to the High View Park entrance station.
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 HIGH VIEW
Heading to HIGH VIEW? 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 HIGH VIEW?
No central reservation system listed for HIGH VIEW. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232602) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to HIGH VIEW?
From Ennis, Texas: From Interstate 45, exit onto U.S. Highway 287 Bypass (Exit #247). Travel 4.5 miles and exit at the Bardwell Lake exit sign. Turn left onto Highway 34 and go 2.5 miles southwest. After crossing the Bardwell Lake bridge, take the first left onto High View Park Road. Travel 0.2-mile to the High View Park entrance station.
How do I contact HIGH VIEW?
You can reach the park at phone: 972-875-5711 or email: ceswf-od-br@swf02.usace.army.mil.
References & Official Resources
