About STILLHOUSE
Overview Stillhouse Park is a day use area that has two reservable group pavilions along the shore of Stillhouse Hollow Lake in central Texas. With activities such as picnicking, swimming, basketball and fishing, the park is popular for family gatherings and other large group events. Stillhouse Hollow Lake was created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with the construction of Stillhouse Hollow Dam in 1968. The 6,430-acre lake is located 16 miles upstream of the confluence of the Lampasas and Leon Rivers, which flow into the Little River. Recreation With 58 miles of shoreline, Stillhouse Hollow Lake is an often uncrowded haven for boaters and fishermen. Those who do not have motor boats, canoes or kayaks can rent them nearby. A variety of land-based activities are also offered, such as volleyball, basketball and horseshoes. Birding is a favorite pastime for many visitors. Hawks, great blue herons, ducks, geese, many species of songbirds, bobwhite quail, Rio Grande turkey and even an occasional bald eagle visit the lake area, yielding year-round opportunities for bird sightings.Facilities The lake's only marina and fuel dock are located within the park. There are two reservable group pavilions, Island View and Tear Drop, which can each hold up to 120 visitors. There are also nearly 40 individual picnic sites around the beach area, as well as a swimming beach popular with families. Natural Features Aside from the park and two nearby campgrounds, very little of the lakeshore is developed. It has rocky beaches and sandy bluffs along the edges, and much of it is forested. Stillhouse Park has grassy, open areas interspersed with trees. The lake has noticeably clear and deep water inhabited by largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and channel catfish. A man-made wetland was constructed on the south shore of the lake, providing an additional 10 acres of wildlife habitat in the lake area. Nearby Attractions The nearby Village of Salado offers golf, art galleries and shopping, am
How to Get There
From Interstate 35 in Belton, Texas take State Highway 190 west to the Simmons Road exit. Exit and turn left under 190 onto Simmons Road. Proceed about three miles to the park.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
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High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
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Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
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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 STILLHOUSE
Heading to STILLHOUSE? 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 STILLHOUSE?
No central reservation system listed for STILLHOUSE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232712) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to STILLHOUSE?
From Interstate 35 in Belton, Texas take State Highway 190 west to the Simmons Road exit. Exit and turn left under 190 onto Simmons Road. Proceed about three miles to the park.
How do I contact STILLHOUSE?
You can reach the park at phone: 254-939-6741.
References & Official Resources
