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Overview Waxahachie Creek Park is on the western shore of Bardwell Lake, less than an hour south of the Dallas-Fort Worth area in north-central Texas. City-dwellers frequent the park's campground and day-use area to enjoy outdoor activities without going far from home. 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. The Bardwell Lake equestrian and multi-use trail begins at this facility. It provides over 13 miles of trails for horseback riding, biking or hiking. Visitors should be advised that the trail is located within a designated hunting area from September through March. Facilities Waxahachie Creek Park offers something for everyone with 65 campsites with water and 30-amp electric service, seven non-electric picnic sites and one reservable group pavilion, which can accommodate up to 200 people. There is also a day use area for visitors who are not camping overnight. The boat ramp at the upper end of the park is very shallow at normal lake level and not suited to launch ski boats or larger vessels. The boat ramp at the lower end of the park is suitable for all types of boats at normal lake level and has a courtesy dock for loading and unloading boats. Natural Features The park is located on the upper reaches of the lake, near the mouth of a main tributary, Waxahachie Creek. The word "Waxahachie" is believed to be the Tonkawa Native American word for "Buffalo Creek." The lake's waters provide a refreshing break from the Texas heat and enormous blooms of 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.