About LONGHORN
Overview Longhorn Park Picnic Area overlooks Benbrook Lake & Dam in north-central Texas, easiley accessible from the Chisholm Trail Parkway and southwest Fort Worth. Along with a scenic overlook, a large group pavilion is available as well as picnicking, fishing and boat launching. Recreation The large group pavilion is popular for family and group activitries. Individual picnic sites and boat launching is also available in the park. The nearby spillway cut for the dam is a popular fossil-hunting locaiotn where visitors can search rof Cretaceous clams and coral remnants form 85 million yeats ago. Facilities The large picnic shelter can accommodate up to 100 guests, with restrooms, available parking, access to trails and lake shoreline. There is no electricity on site. Natural Features Longhorn Park is on the high rocky bluffs of the Clear Fork, overlooking the southeast end of the dam. Nearby Attractions City lease areas on the lake's north end offer golf courses, ball fields, tennis & volleyball courts, children's play areas, trail access and other facilities. Fort Worth's renowned Cultural & Museum District, Stockyards National Historic District, Botanical Gardens, Zoo, Bass Performance Hall, and downtown Sundance Square, are all only a short drive.
How to Get There
From Interstate 20 or 820, take exit 432A for Bryant Irvin Road, and go 3 miles (1.8 km) south to the intersection with Dirks Road / Altabesa Boulevard. Turn right or west and go 1 mile (1.2 km) to the park and Lake Office which will be on the left.
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 LONGHORN
Heading to LONGHORN? 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 LONGHORN?
No central reservation system listed for LONGHORN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232633) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to LONGHORN?
From Interstate 20 or 820, take exit 432A for Bryant Irvin Road, and go 3 miles (1.8 km) south to the intersection with Dirks Road / Altabesa Boulevard. Turn right or west and go 1 mile (1.2 km) to the park and Lake Office which will be on the left.
How do I contact LONGHORN?
You can reach the park at phone: 817-292-2400.
References & Official Resources
