Post Oak Ridge State Park in Central Texas has officially opened to the public for day use, welcoming visitors to explore its scenic landscapes. Situated along the banks of the Colorado River, the park provides breathtaking views and a diverse natural environment which includes rolling hills, rugged canyons, and abundant wildlife.
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The history of this land dates back over a century, when John Fletcher and Mattie Lou Vann established a homestead in 1889 in what is now the northwest corner of Burnet County. With their seven children, the couple cultivated the area, transforming it into a thriving ranch where they raised livestock and built a community. Their stewardship over the land continued for generations, with family members engaging in ranching and even creating a popular fishing spot.
In January 2025, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) acquired the original 2,020-acre Vann ranch from the descendants of the family. Shortly thereafter, an additional 1,100 acres of adjacent land was purchased, bringing the total area to a substantial 3,100 acres. This ambitious project has been supported by the newly established Centennial Parks Conservation Fund, which was approved by voters in 2023 to allocate $1 billion towards the creation and development of state parks across Texas.
Under TPWD’s guidelines, newly acquired lands are required to open for limited public use within 18 months, with full access aimed to be achieved within 48 months. Following the initial acquisition, guided access to Post Oak Ridge State Park was offered, allowing visitors to partake in educational hikes and classes, even focusing on burn ecology, as development plans were laid out.
Construction efforts for the park commenced in March 2025, covering areas in both Burnet and Lampasas counties. Early plans included essential infrastructure updates such as trash management, the demolition of minor structures, and the paving of access roads and trails. The park finally welcomed its first visitors on 24 September 2025, allowing the public to engage with this untouched natural environment.
Park Superintendent Kacey Sloan expressed excitement over the opening, emphasising the park’s rugged charm and serene atmosphere. “The park is rugged and primitive, with a unique sound environment. There aren’t human-made sounds,” she remarked, highlighting that Post Oak Ridge State Park provides a rare escape from urban noise.
While the park has now opened, it currently lacks several standard amenities, including drinking water access, reliable cell service, and a ranger headquarters. Sloan has shared insights into the extensive planning required for such an undertaking, likening it to building a small city, which usually goes unnoticed if executed properly.
Future developments are on the horizon, including plans for RV sites, primitive camping facilities, and additional trails. Access to the nearby river is also envisioned, as TPWD aims to enhance the park experience over the coming years, with the goal of completing these major facilities by 2029.
As development continues, the park stands as a testament to a blend of historical significance and natural beauty, offering visitors a glimpse into both Texas’s past and its future as a cherished outdoor space. With its combination of unspoiled landscapes and ongoing enhancements, Post Oak Ridge State Park is poised to become a key destination for outdoor enthusiasts in the region.
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