About MOTT
Overview Mott Park is located on the western 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 Mott Park offers 33 campsites with water and 30-amp electric hookups and seven picnic sites. The group camping pavilion has four 30-amp electric and water connections and may accommodate 100 people and four RVs. The facility also has a day use area for visitors who are not camping overnight. Additional amenities include a swimming area with benches, two fishing areas, public restrooms with showers, one four-lane boat ramp and a courtesy dock. Natural Features The park is grassy and partially forested with plenty of open space where children can play. 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 3.5 miles southwest. Turn left onto FM 985 and go 1.6 miles southeast to the entrance. The park is located on the left side of the road.
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 MOTT
Heading to MOTT? 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 MOTT?
No central reservation system listed for MOTT. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232646) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to MOTT?
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 3.5 miles southwest. Turn left onto FM 985 and go 1.6 miles southeast to the entrance. The park is located on the left side of the road.
How do I contact MOTT?
You can reach the park at phone: 972-875-5711 or email: ceswf-od-br@swf02.usace.army.mil.
References & Official Resources
