ATLANTA STATE PARK
Atlanta State Park is 1475 acres on Lake Wright Patman Dam in Cass County, a few miles southwest of Texarkana. Texas acquired the land in 1954 by Department of the Army License which expires in 2004 with option to renew to 2054.
Contrasting seasonal colors of terrain, the lake, sunsets, and pine forests are breathtaking. Abundant bird and wildlife species and woodland plants offer excellent opportunities to observers. Crappie, largemouth bass, white bass, and several species of sunfish are present in good numbers, with quality-size fish available for recreational anglers. Catfish - channel, blue, and flathead are also available in large numbers.
Caddo Indians, the most culturally advanced tribe in Texas, once made this area their home. The Caddos settled the area peacefully as farmers, unlike their nomadic and warlike brother, the Apaches and Comanches. Excavations conducted by the Smithsonian Institute produced many graves and artifacts, and archaeologists found evidence of a house pattern with post molds still intact.
1. Atlanta State Park offers a designated swimming area on the shores of Lake Wright Patman.
2. No lifeguards are present, so swim at your own risk.
3. Swimming is not allowed from boats or docks in this park.
4. The lake's sandy shore provides an ideal spot for sunbathing and picnicking after swimming sessions.
5. Visitors can enjoy fishing near the swimming areas but must maintain safe distances from swimmers.
Located in Northeast Texas, the park offers fishing opportunities on Wright Patman Lake. Species include bass, catfish and crappie. Fishing piers are available for use year-round. A boat ramp is also provided for those who prefer to fish from a vessel.
Atlanta State Park is located near Atlanta, New Boston and Texarkana
Atlanta State Park in Texas offers picnic tables, grills and pavilions for picnicking with beautiful lake views.
Biking enthusiasts can explore numerous trails, although some may be challenging due to steep and uneven terrain.
Mountain bikes are recommended for these paths.
The park's diverse landscape offers a mix of woodland and lake views during your ride.
Please note that helmets are strongly encouraged for safety purposes while biking in the area.
Check with local authorities before setting out as trail conditions can change rapidly due to weather or maintenance issues.
Remember: always respect nature by staying on designated bike routes only.
Birding enthusiasts can spot species like the Red-headed Woodpecker, Eastern Bluebird and White-eyed Vireo. The park is home to various waterfowl during winter months. Birdwatchers may also see warblers in spring migration season. Other common sightings include hawks, owls, hummingbirds and sparrows.
Nearby attractions include Caddo Lake State Park, Daingerfield State Park, and Starr Family Home State Historic Site in Marshall Texas.
Atlanta abounds in antique, collectible, craft, and gift shops. Along with the dam and lake, include the town of Jefferson, with antebellum homes and the community of Three States, where you can stand in Texas and Arkansas and touch Louisiana.
To reach the park, which is 11 miles northwest of Atlanta, exit from US Highway 59 onto FM 96, and go west 9 miles to FM 1154, then north 2 miles to Park Road 42 entrance, (FM 1154 dead ends at the park).