Prairies and Lakes, Texas
"Prairies and Lakes." Does that title really tell the tale? Well, yes-and no. Prairies and Lakes paints merely the pastoral brush strokes in this region's richly textured panorama. The full picture emerges only when you add the dynamic cities, charming communities, and colorful history that enliven this attraction-packed section of Texas.
Explore Prairies and Lakes
Cooper Lake Boat Ramps
Jim Chapman Lake has five boat ramps. South Sulphur Unit has two boat ramps. One ramp with six lanes and one ramp with two lanes of concrete construction, courtesy docks for loading and unloading boats, and an adjacent asphalt parking area which hold about 60
, TX BoatingLeon County Courthouse
When the Leon County Courthouse burned in 1885, the smoke had scarcely died away before a contract was let to erect a new one. Completed in 1887, the "new" courthouse was built of slate bricks handmade near the site. The courthouse is one of the oldest such buildings in Texas, and is listed on the <
Centerville, TX Historic CourthousesHistoric Sites in Columbus
Medallions of the State Historical Survey Committee have been placed on almost 80 sites in Columbus. The newest concept in providing historical and architectural information is the unique "Talking Houses"
Columbus, TX ToursJoe Pool Lake Boating
Joe Pool Lake has two marinas, Joe Pool Marina in Cedar Hill State Park and Lynn Creek Marina in Lynn Creek Park. The marinas offer a large array of lake recreation including:
, TX BoatingEpiscopal Church of the Epiphany
The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany was built in 1869
Calvert, TX Historic ChurchesLantana Lodge at Ray Roberts Lake
Fine dining and luxurious overnight accommodations are now available at the Lantana Lodge which is located in the Jordan Unit of Ray Roberts Lake. The classic "dog trot"
, TX LodgesRay Roberts Greenbelt Corridor
The Ray Roberts Lake/Lake Lewisville Greenbelt Corridor is a 20 mile multi-use trail system (12 miles for equestrian and 10 for hike and bike use)
, TX TrailsOld Bedford School
This beautifully restored 1915 vintage schoolhouse is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and features a visitors center, a gallery with changing exhibits and an authentically furnished 1915 classroom. The site also has a 149-seat auditorium for 25 performances each year.
Bedford, TX Historic SchoolhousesCooper Wildlife Management Area
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department manage the Cooper Wildlife Management Area (WMA) under a license agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Cooper WMA is located in Delta and Hopkins Counties, and covers approximately 9500 acres of land surrounding the Jim Chapman Lake and 4700
, TX HuntingLavon Lake Fishing
Lavon Lake is noted for crappie fishing, especially in winter and spring. Largemouth bass, channel catfish, and blue catfish offer good angling opportunities. Striped bass were stocked in 1989 and 1994
, TX Fishing