Cameron Park is one of Waco’s greatest treasures, and it’s yours to explore. The 416-acre park, a gift of the William Cameron family, features towering live oaks, stunning bluffs overlooking the Brazos and Bosque Rivers, and a National Recreation Trail system. Mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrians share the park with disc golfers, picnickers, and bird watchers. Park hours are from 6 a.m. to midnight. Points of interest include:
Lovers Leap - For more than 100 years, park visitors have stood atop the Cameron Park cliffs to admire the expansive views and pondered the legend of Lovers Leap. This is one of the park’s most popular attractions.
Circle Point - Perched 100 feet above the Brazos River, Circle Point provides panoramic river views and a glimpse of downtown Waco.
Emmons Cliff - Emmons Cliff is highlighted by rolling parkland filled with cedars and oaks. The area also features a wooded river overlook just a short hike from the main road. Emmons Cliff has three small pavilions, as well as picnic tables.
Mouth of the Bosque - With a soft breeze and rivers gliding by, Mouth of the Bosque is a natural sanctuary for relaxation. Located in the middle of the trail system, this escape features restrooms and a small pavilion, with a waterfront view of the Brazos and Bosque Rivers.
Miss Nellie’s Pretty Place - With bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes and black-eyed Susans, the 6-acre wildflower preserve is the perfect spot for springtime family photos.
Jacob’s Ladder - Climbing this quirky 88 winding step staircase is one of Cameron Park’s most beloved challenges. Built in the early 1900s, the ladder is characterized by its cedar railing, zigzag design and uneven cement stairs.
Lawson's Point - Lawson's Point sits along Cameron Park Drive and includes two shelters surrounded by oak trees, a walking loop and open fields. The area provides easy trail access and is located just above the river trail.
Cameron Park Zoo - The Cameron Park Zoo is an award-winning natural habitat facility accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. Visitors can explore the Asian Forest, experience the African Savannah or travel through the Brazos River Country and its 50,000-gallon saltwater aquarium.
Waco Zoo Sculptures - The mile-long stretch of the Waco Sculpture Zoo consists of 28 artworks featuring animals that can be found in Cameron Park Zoo or that are native to the area. The sculptures are visible from University Parks Drive, the river walk, and the river.
Cameron Park Trail System - With approximately 26 miles of twisting trails, Cameron Park features an amazing, multi-use National Recreation Trail system. Hikers and bikers meander along the River Trail, zigzag up 100-foot bluffs to overlook the rivers, or rip down trails like Root Canal. Cameron Park is home to numerous organized races, runs and outdoor activities. The trail system provides an endless adventure with wildlife and native vegetation.
William Cameron Park Disc Golf Course - The William Cameron Park course is located within Cameron Park near Redwood Shelter. This 23-hole, par-71 course is designed for players of all skill levels and is open to the public daily at no charge.
Waco Parks and Recreation offers a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for hosting a variety of events.
Cameron Park Clubhouse
Clubhouse: $1,315/day with $250 refundable deposit
Northern Gateway Park
Northern Gateway Park is perfect for events and parties, plus you're at the very top of the Cameron Park trail system. Neighboring Lovers Leap, this area is the longtime home of picnics and ball games.
Festival area - $1,325 per day / $500 deposit. Includes park exclusivity, a pavilion, parking lot, restroom facilities, playground, water play misters, electricity access and water access.
Pavilion - $265/day. Includes pavilion and electricity access.
Large Pavilions - $265/Day
- Anniversary Park
- Miss Nellie's Pretty Place
- Northern Gateway
- Pecan Bottoms
- Redwood Shelter
Small Pavilions - $105/Day
- Circle Point
- Lovers Leap
- Mouth of the Bosque
- Proctor Springs
- Rock Shelter