Camping at KEYHOLE
Keyhole at Cleburne State Park
Location and Access Cleburne State Park, located in Johnson County in Texas, is home to the unique keyhole structure—named for its distinctive shape. The park is situated roughly 30 minutes from the town of Cleburne and can be reached via Park Road 21. Upon entry into the park, visitors may access various trails and areas that may lead to the keyhole formations.
Camping Information For those interested in camping near the keyhole structure, Cleburne State Park offers a range of camping options including:
- Screened Shelters: These are great for visitors who want a more comfortable camping experience without bringing a lot of gear.
- Campsites with Water and Electricity: Ideal for tent campers and those with RVs or trailers, providing access to water and power hookups.
- Primitive Campsites: For those seeking a more traditional camping experience away from the developed areas.
Reservations for camping can usually be made up to five months in advance, and it's highly recommended to book as early as possible, especially for weekend dates or holiday periods. Check the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website for specific availability and to reserve a spot.
Amenities and Activities Cleburne State Park boasts more than just camping. Here are some of the amenities and activities available:
- Swimming and Boating: The keyhole leads into a small lake, where swimming and no-wake boating are popular.
- Hiking and Biking: Explore over 13 miles of trails that offer varying levels of difficulty and provide scenic views, including the keyhole.
- Fishing: Cast a line into Cedar Lake to catch fish such as bass, catfish, and crappie. A fishing license isn't required when fishing from the shore within a state park.
- Picnicking: Several picnic areas are available throughout the park for day-use visitors.
Park Fees There is an entrance fee to access Cleburne State Park, which helps with the maintenance and operations of the park. Check the latest fees on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's website or by calling the park directly. Additional fees apply for overnight camping and other amenities.
Important Tips and Regulations
- Wildlife: As with any natural area, observe wildlife from a distance and do not feed the animals.
- Preservation: Everything in the park, including geological features like the keyhole, is protected; do not deface or remove any natural objects.
- Fire Safety: Only build fires in designated fire rings or grills and ensure they are completely extinguished before leaving.
- Pets: Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and should not be left unattended.
Weather Precautions Before heading out, check the weather forecast as conditions can change rapidly, and prepare accordingly. The park might have certain protocols during extreme weather conditions, so it's best to be aware of any potential weather-related closures or warnings.
Emergency Services For emergencies within the park, you can contact the park headquarters. For urgent emergencies, dial 911. Remember that cell phone reception may not be reliable in all areas, so plan ahead and let someone know your itinerary.
Remember that the keyhole area is a part of the natural landscape and should be treated with respect to preserve its beauty for future visitors.
