About KIMBALL BEND PARK
Overview Kimball Bend Campground is located on Whitney Lake off the main channel of the Brazos River in Central Texas. The campground offers thirty four 50 amp campsites. Recreation Boating, fishing, swimming, canoeing and kayaking are popular activities on the river and downstream at Whitney Lake. Anglers can fish for a variety of bass, crappie and catfish. Visitors enjoy hiking the Chisholm Trail, a historic route followed by upwards of ten million cattle as they traveled northbound from southern Texas to Kansas and adjacent destinations between 1867 and the 1880s. It crosses through the campground and past several historic structures.Facilities This year-round campground offers 34 sites with water and electric hookups. Amenities include flush toilets, showers, drinking water, a dump station and boat ramp. * Please note that water for this facility is supplied by an onsite Public Water Supply (PWS) and in the event of a power ouatage that lasts more than 24 hours visitors may be asked to evacuate the park since water cannot be provided. Natural Features The Brazos River flows gently over sand and rocks at Kimball Bend. The surrounding rolling hills are covered with cedar, live, and post oak trees. Nearby Attractions The 12.5 mile Hopewell Trail is nearby. It allows hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Visitors can travel south to Lakeside Village and Powelldale Mountain.
How to Get There
From Kopperl, TX, travel north on HWY 56 for approximately 2.5 miles. Turn right on HWY 174 and go approximately 2.3 miles. Turn left into the park, just before the HWY 174 bridge. From Cleburne, TX, travel south on HWY 174 for 22 miles. Turn right into the park after you cross the HWY 174 bridge.
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 KIMBALL BEND PARK
Heading to KIMBALL BEND PARK? 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 KIMBALL BEND PARK?
No central reservation system listed for KIMBALL BEND PARK. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233170) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to KIMBALL BEND PARK?
From Kopperl, TX, travel north on HWY 56 for approximately 2.5 miles. Turn right on HWY 174 and go approximately 2.3 miles. Turn left into the park, just before the HWY 174 bridge. From Cleburne, TX, travel south on HWY 174 for 22 miles. Turn right into the park after you cross the HWY 174 bridge.
How do I contact KIMBALL BEND PARK?
You can reach the park at phone: 254-622-3332.
References & Official Resources
