About LOVE
Overview Love Park is on the southeastern shore of Bardwell Lake, less than an hour south of the Dallas-Fort Worth area in north-central Texas. The lake has favorable fish and wildlife habitats, providing plenty of opportunities for fishing and hunting, and great locations for camping, boating and hiking. Deer, armadillo, rabbit, squirrel and a variety of bird species inhabit the area.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. The lake has a marina with fishing piers, two of which are enclosed (a small fee is charged for the use of these facilities), and there are several designated hunting areas around the lake, including those for duck hunting.Facilities Love Park offers one reservable group picnic pavilion that can accommodate up to 200 people. The facility also provides vault toilets and a four-lane boat ramp.Natural Features The park is grassy and partially forested. The lake's blue water provides a refreshing break from the Texas heat, while bright 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 0.2 miles. Turn left onto Lakeview Road. Travel 2.0 miles to the intersection of Beach Road. Make a slight turn to the right then proceed straight on Beach Road 0.4 miles to the park entrance.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 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 LOVE
Heading to LOVE? 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 LOVE?
No central reservation system listed for LOVE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232635) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to LOVE?
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 0.2 miles. Turn left onto Lakeview Road. Travel 2.0 miles to the intersection of Beach Road. Make a slight turn to the right then proceed straight on Beach Road 0.4 miles to the park entrance.
How do I contact LOVE?
You can reach the park at phone: 972-875-5711 or email: ceswf-od-br@swf02.usace.army.mil.
References & Official Resources
