Onion Creek Trail - Lake Arrowhead State Park
Do you like tall grass, mesquite trees, cactus, and disc golf? If so, then the Onion Creek Trail at Lake Arrowhead State Park is the place for you! Lake Arrowhead State Park has great camping sites and from what I'm told, the crappie fishing is amazing. However, the hiking trails are not so great.
The primary trail at Lake Arrowhead State Park is the 4.4 mile Onion Creek Trail. This trail runs the length of the park from North to South. The half-mile long Mesquite Ridge Trail connects the campground to the Onion Creek Trail. Also available for hiking is the Dragonfly Trail, a half-mile interpretive trail.
The Onion Creek and other trails at Lake Arrowhead State Park are nothing spectacular. While the trails are well maintained and easy to follow, they are little more than a mown path through the tall grass. Shade is minimal which can make this trail less than ideal on a warm sunny day. Wearing long sleeves and a wide brim hat is advised.
The Onion Creek Trail makes its way through an 18 hole disc golf course - the only one in the Texas State Parks system. On the day of my hike, I did not come across anyone making use of the course.
The half-mile Mesquite Ridge Trail is perhaps the most scenic place in the park. The shade from the mesquite trees that line this trail offer a respite from the sun. A bench allows you to sit and take in the view at the Mesquite Ridge overlook.
Among the tall grass and mesquite trees that line the trail is lots of prickly pear cactus. On the day of my visit in May, the cactus was sporting its beautiful blooms. Patches of wildflowers could be found at other locations along the trail.
The Dragonfly Trail is also available for hiking. This is a one-half mile interpretive loop features makers which provide information on the plant and animal life in the park. This trail is mostly shaded by mesquite trees. This trail can be accessed towards the South end of the park by the equestrian and group picnic area just off of the Onion Creek Trail.
Without a Texas State Parks Pass, daily admission to Lake Arrowhead State Park is $4 per person 13 or older. There are no restrooms available along the trails. Cellular service is consistently available along all of the park's trails. There is a small equestrian campground at the park, so be prepared to share the trails with horse riders. The Onion Creek and other trails are mostly flat with no significant changes in elevation.
The trails at Lake Arrowhead are not bad. However, they are not great either. If you are looking to camp or fish, Lake Arrowhead State Park is a fine place to visit. However, if hiking is your primary reason for visiting you may want to consider other destinations.
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