Texas Foundation Acquires Land for New State Park
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation purchased a 650-acre ranch on Lake Palestine for future public use.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in National Parks
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The Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation has acquired a 650-acre ranch on Lake Palestine to serve as the site of a future state park. The land, formerly home to the Texas Pecan Nursery, will be held by the foundation until the state agency completes its formal purchase.
Why it matters
The acquisition preserves one of the largest remaining contiguous tracts on Lake Palestine while utilizing the voter-approved Centennial Parks Conservation Fund. Holding the property temporarily allows the state to maximize interest earnings on the $1 billion fund.
The 650-acre property includes 2,000 feet of shoreline on Lake Palestine, a 58-foot-deep lake, and 10 ponds. The site is situated approximately 18 miles from Tyler and 20 miles from Athens.
The players
Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation
This non-profit organization supports the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in its efforts to conserve land and wildlife across the state.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
This state agency is responsible for managing and protecting the natural and cultural resources of Texas for the use and enjoyment of the public.
The details
The property, which was held by the Pollard family since 1940, features diverse terrain including pine woods, native grasses, and a pecan orchard. Future visitors are expected to gain access to amenities such as boating, fishing, swimming, hiking trails, and campsites.
Timeline
The Pollard family held the land starting in 1940.
Lawmakers approved the $1 billion Centennial Parks Conservation Fund in 2023.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department expects to complete the purchase in late 2027.
Roadmap
This acquisition follows the implementation strategy established by the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund. It represents a significant effort to secure large, contiguous land tracts for public recreation as Texas continues to experience rapid population growth.
While the site is not yet open to the public, residents in Henderson County and the surrounding areas can eventually expect new regional access to swimming, boating, and camping. The park will follow a phased opening schedule starting with guided access before full public operations begin.
The takeaway
This land deal highlights how state conservation funds are being used to protect Texas shorelines for long-term public recreation. Interested residents should monitor the state agency for future announcements regarding guided access dates before the park fully opens.
What happens next
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is expected to officially purchase the property from the foundation in late 2027.
Further reading
Explore more about state recreation initiatives on the Texas National Parks section page.
Live Poll
Do you support state government efforts to preserve private land for future public park use?
