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Texas
62

Texas State Parks

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USA Parks
Texas
South Plains Region
Falcon State Park
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FALCON STATE PARK
FALCON STATE PARK
P O Box 2
Falcon Heights, Texas   78545

Phone: 956-848-5327
Reservations: 512-389-8900
Falcon State Park is 572.6 (144 developed) acres located north of Roma at the southern end of the 98,960-surface-acre International Falcon Reservoir in Starr and Zapata Counties. The park was leased from the International Boundary and Water Commission in 1949 and was opened to the public in 1965.

Falcon Dam was dedicated by Mexican President Adolfo Ruiz Cortines and President Dwight D. Eisenhower in October 1953. The waters of the Rio Grande River have formed a beautiful 60-mile-long lake behind the dam. This dam was built for conservation, irrigation, power, flood control, and recreational purposes.
Nature of the Area
Gently rolling hills are covered by mesquite, huisache, wild olive, ebony, cactus native grasses. Falcon Lake is a big fishing paradise, especially for those seeking black and white bass, catfish, and stripers (Link to detailed lake and fish info). The area is very popular with bird watchers; varied and interesting bird life consisting of common resident birds, which range throughout the American Southwest, and many of the tropical species for which this is the northwesternmost outpost. Also, there are uncommon varieties such as the small green kingfisher and the varied bunting.
Boating
There is a new boat ramp with three 24' lanes to an elevation of 269' and a single 24' lane to an elevation of 259'. The new ramp is in use when the lake is above 261'.

The park is providing a temporary ramp that consists of improved lake shore launching when the lake is below 261'. Four-wheel drive is recommended for temporary ramp use. Sometimes changing lake conditions cause the temporary ramps to be unusable; if in doubt, contact the park.
Fishing
Located in Zapata County, the park offers fishing opportunities on Falcon International Reservoir. Anglers can catch largemouth bass and catfish here. Other species include white bass, crappie and channel catfish. Fishing from a boat or shoreline is possible with several access points available throughout the area.


Location
Falcon State Park is located near Roma

Picnicking
Falcon State Park offers numerous picnic sites with tables and grills. Some are shaded, others offer stunning lake views.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can explore various trails, suitable for all skill levels. However, caution is advised due to rugged terrains.

The park offers a 3-mile paved road perfect for casual cyclists but requires careful navigation around vehicles and pedestrians.

Mountain bikers might find the off-road paths challenging with rocky surfaces; helmets are strongly recommended here.

Night biking isn't allowed in order to protect wildlife habitats and ensure visitor safety - plan your rides accordingly.

Remember that Texas heat can be intense so carry plenty of water during summer months while cycling.

Always adhere strictly to trail rules as some areas may have restrictions or closures depending on weather conditions.
Birding
The park offers birding opportunities with over 300 species, including the Altamira Oriole and Green Jay. Birdwatchers can also spot Great Kiskadees, Northern Beardless-Tyrannulets and Verdin. The Audubon's Orioles are a rare sight in winter months while White-tailed Hawks soar year-round.

Area Attractions
Nearby points of interest include Lake Casa Blanca International State Park and Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park (part of the World Birding Center); Falcon Dam, with a memorial to the joint US-Mexico project; Nuevo Guerrero, built across the border after Falcon Reservoir engulfed old Guerrero in 1953; Mexico; Fort Ringgold in Rio Grande City, established in 1848; the City of Roma, which was founded in 1768 and is currently restoring several old buildings. Roma has many historical sites including the Roma Historical Museum with exhibits on American, Spanish and Mexican cultures.

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Directions
From Zapata, take US Highway 83 to FM 2098, then go southwest for 3 miles to Park Road 46. From Roma, go 15 miles west on US Highway 83 to FM 2098 to Park Road 46.

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Texas
62

Texas State Parks

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