McPherson Slough Park

Park hours: 5 am to 10 pm

Fees: No entry fee required

Often regarded as the “quiet corner” of Lake Grapevine, McPherson Slough Park is a secluded 14-acre retreat designed for those who value nature over high-traffic attractions. Tucked away on the southern shore near the larger Oak Grove Park, this destination is a favorite for local kayakers, birdwatchers, and anglers looking for a peaceful cove.

Whether you’re planning a solo sunrise paddle or a quiet family picnic, this guide covers everything you need to know about McPherson Slough Park.

A Paddler’s Paradise: The No-Wake Zone

The most significant advantage of McPherson Slough is its geography. The park is nestled deep within a protected cove designated as a Strict No-Wake Zone.

  • Easy Launches: The calm, glassy water makes it perhaps the best spot on the lake for beginner kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders (SUP) to launch without battling the chop of motorized boats.
  • Clear Kayak Tours: The park is frequently used by Get Up and Go Kayaking, which offers unique tours in completely transparent kayaks—including “Glow” tours at night featuring LED underwater lights.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Because the water is still and the area is heavily treed, it is a haven for local wildlife. It’s common to spot white-tailed deer, herons, and even the occasional skunk along the shoreline.

Boating and Fishing Amenities

Despite its “slough” name—which implies shallow, marshy water—the park features a robust two-lane concrete boat ramp and a floating courtesy dock.

  • Protection from Winds: Because the ramp is shielded by the surrounding terrain, it remains usable even when southern winds make other ramps on the lake too dangerous to navigate.
  • Bank Fishing: For those without a boat, McPherson Slough offers a public fishing pier and excellent bank fishing opportunities. The cove’s submerged boulders and nearby boathouses are known to attract largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie.

Hiking and Land Activities

McPherson Slough Park serves as a major trailhead for the Horseshoe Trails, a network of scenic paths that wind through the Cross Timbers ecosystem.

  • Diverse Terrain: The trails offer a mix of paved sections for easy walking and rugged, dirt-path mountain bike trails that provide more of a technical challenge.
  • Shaded Picnic Areas: The park is heavily wooded, providing natural canopy over its eight covered picnic tables. It’s a top choice for those who want to enjoy the Texas outdoors without being in direct sunlight all day.
  • Runner’s Hub: The park is the “backyard” for the Lake Grapevine Runners and Walkers clubhouse, making it a frequent meeting spot for local athletic groups.

Essential Visitor Information

Location and Hours

  • Address: 2500 Catfish Lane, Grapevine, TX 76051.
  • Park Hours: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
  • Boat Ramp: Open 24 hours for vehicles with boat trailers.

Fees and Parking

  • Vehicle Entry: Generally, there is no fee for standard vehicle entry to the park area for hiking or picnicking.
  • Boat Launch Fee: There is a $10 fee per launch ($20 on July 4th). The gate is credit/debit only; cash is not accepted.
  • Payment: Visitors can pay at the automated kiosk or via the Flowbird App.

Why Choose McPherson Slough?

While nearby Oak Grove Park is better for organized sports and Meadowmere is best for the floating water park, McPherson Slough is the choice for intimacy and nature. It offers a “hidden” feel that makes it perfect for those who want to escape the metroplex noise without leaving the city.

Located at:

2500 Catfish Lane

Grapevine, Texas