Enjoying the peace and quiet of scenic Lake Limestone from Park #5 is not just reserved for the summer months, the park remains free and open for public use year-round, no reservations needed.
Public Use Area #5, or Park #5, is located on Lake Limestone, a reservoir constructed on the upper Navasota River in Limestone, Robertson, and Leon counties. The water supply reservoir is one of three owned and operated by the Brazos River Authority.
Park #5 is a local favorite because of the fishing, wildlife, and its rural location, said John Dickson, the reservoir manager for the BRA lake. Though for him, a simple stroll through the vicinity is sure to lift the spirits.
This secluded park is one of four parks surrounding Lake Limestone and is the only one that allows camping. Tucked away from the main drag, this park typically has fewer visitors than the other parks, making the area a favorite among fishers. Park 5 is one of two BRA parks at the reservoir. Public Use Area #1 is located by the Sterling C. Robertson Dam. Limestone County operates another two parks at the lake – Public Use Area #2 and Public Use Area #3.
Taking a break from the indoors is a must, and Lake Limestone’s Park #5 has plenty of shade and an assortment of piers for fishing and swimming - after all, enjoying the water is what visiting the lake is all about. There is no designated swim area, but visitors are welcome to swim from the piers.
If you’re more interested in getting on the water, there are a variety of boat rental options in the area that are targeted at visitors of Lake Limestone, which is 15 miles southeast of Groesbeck on F.M. 3371.
With a total of 26 grills, Park #5 boasts the most grills compared to the rest of Lake Limestone’s parks. Between the covered pavilions and picnic tables, there’s no shortage of seating either, so pack your cooler and get ready for the perfect picnic.
Lake Limestone is a favorite among fishers due to its large numbers of largemouth bass and catfish. Three catfish species are present in the lake including blue, channel, and flathead. There are also White bass, Yellow bass, Black bass, and crappie, according to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. Park #5 has one long pier and five small piers for fishing and swimming, as well as a few courtesy docks to launch boats from.
Part of what makes the fishing great at this Texas reservoir is all the aquatic vegetation – cattails, hydrilla, lily pads, pondweed, water hyacinth, and willows. Also, there are five fish habitat structures in the lake that help those who like to fish find a good spot to drop a line. View a map of those locations here.
Park #5 has received upgrades including new paving and a concrete boardwalk. Currently, a new courtesy dock is under construction and there are plans for constructing a new loading dock and fishing pier.
Park #5 has become a popular camping destination at Lake Limestone due to its secluded 10-acre primitive camping areas. This camping ground does not provide water or electrical hookups for recreational vehicles. The park has no designated camping spots; however, there are numerous locations for tents, and RV camping is allowed. Boondocking, which describes dispersed camping on public land is becoming very popular at Park #5. Guests are allowed to remain camping on-site for up to 10 days.
There is so much to enjoy about Park #5 and there is no need to miss out this summer. There are fewer visitors during the week, so visit then if you want an even quieter stay.
It’s time to make that trip with your friends or family and create memories to last a lifetime.
Keeping our parks safe is our priority, which is why it is important to follow park rules, which includes, no alcoholic beverages and no glass on park property. Campfires are also not allowed at Park #5 or Park #1; however, cooking grills are available outside of county-designated burn ban periods. Following these rules is the easiest way to avoid accidents, so everyone can have a safe and fun visit.
For a full list of amenities at Park #5, click here.
If you have any questions about Park #5, please contact information@brazos.org.
Article by: Ariel Wright