Spring Lake Park: Texarkana's Green Oasis

Spring Lake Park, the heart and pride of Texarkana, Texas, spans 145 acres of diverse recreational activities and natural beauty. Once owned by Anthony L. Ghio, the land was developed and opened to the public in 1916. Explorer Hernando De Soto is said to have drank from the spring that feeds the lake in 1541. The park features a picturesque, spring-fed lake surrounded by open green spaces, perfect for picnicking and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy playground units and fishing piers, making it an ideal spot for family outings. The 1.75-mile Phillip McDougal Walking/Biking Trail meanders throughout the park. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the Swanger Sports Complex, home to the Texarkana, Texas Dixie Baseball League, and Dobson Field, home of the Texas A&M-Texarkana Eagles Baseball team. Recent additions include the Rotary Splash Pad and the Kylee Sullivan-PetSafe Dog Park. The park also hosts “Movies in the Park” during the spring and fall. Throughout its history, Spring Lake Park has been a gathering place for the community, hosting events like the Four States Fair and Rodeo. Though the Texarkana Zoo was formed there in 1960, it is no longer at the park. Visitors can explore the park's history through a series of plaques installed around the pond. These plaques highlight various pieces of the area's history, from the Phantom Killer to the street cars.