Murrell Park

Park Hours: 6 am to 10 pm

Fees: No entry fee for day-use

Perched on the northern bluffs of Lake Grapevine, Murrell Park is arguably the most rugged and scenic destination on the reservoir. Unlike the manicured, city-run parks on the south side, Murrell Park is the only facility on the lake still managed directly by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). This gives it a distinct “wild” feel, characterized by limestone cliffs, dense oak forests, and sweeping panoramic views of the water.

Whether you are a hardcore mountain biker, a primitive camper, or a fisherman looking for the perfect honey hole, this 1,000-word guide details why Murrell Park is a North Texas outdoor staple.

The Epicenter of Northshore Trail

For many, Murrell Park is synonymous with the Northshore Trail, widely considered the premier mountain biking and hiking trail in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

  • Trail Overview: The trail spans approximately 22.5 miles of single-track, winding along the shoreline between Rockledge Park and Twin Coves Park. Murrell Park serves as the “middle ground” trailhead, offering a convenient entry point for those who want to tackle specific loops.
  • The Experience: The terrain here is varied. To the east (toward Rockledge), the trails are generally flatter and beginner-friendly. To the west (toward Twin Coves), the path becomes more technical with rocky descents, tight switchbacks, and significant elevation changes.
  • Hiking and Running: While famous for biking, it is also a favorite for trail runners and hikers. The trail offers unique “cliffside” views that are rare in the DFW area.
  • Rules of the Trail: Motorized vehicles (including E-bikes) and horses are strictly prohibited. Always check the DORBA (Dallas Off-Road Biking Association) website or app for trail status, as the paths close during rain to prevent erosion.

Primitive Camping: Falling Asleep to the Waves

If you’re looking for a luxury RV resort with Wi-Fi and sewer hookups, you won’t find it here. Murrell Park is dedicated to primitive tent camping, offering a “back-to-basics” experience that is increasingly hard to find in North Texas.

Campsite Features

The park offers 22 walk-in, tent-only campsites. Most are positioned along the bluffs, providing spectacular sunset views and a constant lake breeze.

  • Amenities: Each site includes a fire ring and a picnic table (some with overhead shelters).
  • The Primitive Reality: There are no electrical or water hookups at the sites. Portable toilets and pit toilets are available, but there are no shower facilities.
  • Water Access: A community water spigot is available seasonally (usually turned off in the winter), so it is highly recommended to bring your own supply.

Reservations and Fees

As of 2026, the fee for a primitive site is approximately $14 per night. Reservations must be made in advance through Recreation.gov. Because these sites offer some of the best waterfront views on the lake, they often book up weeks in advance for spring and fall weekends.

Fishing and Boating on the North Shore

Murrell Park is a haven for anglers due to its diverse shoreline topography. The limestone drop-offs and submerged boulders create a perfect habitat for a variety of game fish.

  • Target Species: Anglers frequently catch Largemouth Bass, White Bass (Sand Bass), and Channel Catfish. The deep-water coves near the bluffs are also excellent spots for Crappie during the spring spawn.
  • Bank Fishing: The park features eight designated fishing trails that lead from the parking areas down to secluded spots along the bank.
  • Boating Access: The park includes two lighted boat ramps with courtesy docks—one designed for high-water conditions and one for low-water. These are some of the most reliable ramps on the lake, regardless of the fluctuating Texas water levels.

Twin Coves Marina and On-Site Dining

One of the unique aspects of Murrell Park is that it houses Twin Coves Marina, a full-service facility that adds a touch of convenience to the wilderness.

  • Rockin’ S Bar and Grill: Located within the marina, this floating restaurant is a local favorite. It offers a classic American menu (burgers, tacos, and cold drinks) with a “vacation vibe.” It’s the perfect place to grab a meal after a long day of hiking or boating.
  • Marina Services: Twin Coves offers boat slips, fuel, and a small shop for last-minute boating essentials. It also serves as a hub for those looking to rent watercraft or join a sailing club.

Wildlife and Natural Features

Spanning over 7,000 acres of water and miles of rolling shoreline, Lake Grapevine is a vital ecosystem, and Murrell Park is its crown jewel for wildlife viewing. The park’s dense canopy of Post Oak and Blackjack Oak trees provides shelter for:

  • White-tailed Deer: Often seen grazing in the early mornings near the park entrance.
  • Bird Watching: From Great Blue Herons stalking the shallows to Red-tailed Hawks circling the bluffs, birders will find plenty to document.
  • Texas Natives: It’s not uncommon to spot armadillos, rabbits, and squirrels darting through the underbrush of the Northshore Trail.

Important Visitor Information

Location and Entry

  • Address: 880 Simmons Road, Flower Mound, TX 75022.
  • Entry Fee: Unlike many other parks on the lake, Day Use and Boat Launching are currently FREE at Murrell Park for general visitors. (Fees still apply for overnight camping).
  • Hours: The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM for day users.

Essential Tips for Your Visit

  1. Bring Sturdy Shoes: The terrain is rocky and uneven, especially if you plan to venture down from the bluffs to the water.
  2. Hydration is Key: Because of the lack of water spigots throughout the trail and campsites, always carry more water than you think you’ll need.
  3. Pack It In, Pack It Out: As a USACE-managed park, visitors are expected to be good stewards of the land. There is no trash pickup at individual campsites, so bring bags to haul your waste to the central dumpsters.
  4. Check for Burn Bans: Denton County frequently issues burn bans during dry Texas summers. Check local alerts before planning a campfire at your site.

Why Murrell Park?

Murrell Park stands out because it offers a sense of seclusion and adventure that is rare for a park located in the heart of the suburbs. It doesn’t try to be a manicured city park with paved playgrounds; instead, it offers raw access to the limestone cliffs and wooded trails that make Lake Grapevine so geographically unique.

Whether you’re looking for a challenging mountain bike ride on the Northshore Trail, a quiet night under the stars, or a prime spot to launch your boat, Murrell Park is the definitive “North Shore” experience.

Address:

Murrell Park

880 Simmons Rd

Flower Mound, TX 75022

(817) 865-2600