Westlake Park

Located in the serene town of Hickory Creek, Westlake Park is a premier destination for those seeking the natural beauty of Lake Lewisville without the heavy crowds often found at more urbanized lakefronts. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), this “day-use only” park is a favorite for local families, boaters, and corporate groups thanks to its expansive views, rugged limestone features, and specialized group facilities.

Whether you are scouting the perfect spot for a company picnic or looking for a quiet shoreline to cast a line, this 1,000-word guide details everything that makes Westlake Park a Lake Lewisville standout.

1. A Prime Location for Large Groups

The defining feature of Westlake Park is its ability to host large-scale gatherings. While many parks offer a single pavilion, Westlake is the primary hub for USACE-managed group shelters on Lake Lewisville.

The Four Major Pavilions

The park features four large, open-sided pavilions that are strategically placed to offer both privacy and lake access:

  • Cottonwood & Bur Oak: Popular for medium-sized family reunions.
  • Green Ash: Known for accommodating larger crowds (up to 75–100 people).
  • Blackjack Oak: Often chosen for its proximity to the wooded areas and restrooms.

Each of these shelters is equipped with electricity, water hookups, and large industrial-sized grills, making them the ultimate setup for a Texas-sized BBQ. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made through Recreation.gov.

2. Boating and the “Party Cove” Connection

For boaters, Westlake Park offers a logistical advantage. It is one of the closest public access points to the famous Lake Lewisville Party Cove, making it a popular launching spot for those looking to join the social scene on summer weekends.

  • The Boat Ramp: The park features a two-lane concrete boat ramp with a sturdy courtesy dock.
  • Open Water Access: Unlike the ramps at nearby Oakland Park which are tucked into a narrower channel, Westlake’s ramp launches into more open water. This can be a double-edged sword: it offers a quicker route to the main body of the lake, but it can be choppier on windy days.
  • Parking: The park provides long, pull-through parking spaces specifically designed for vehicles with boat trailers, ensuring you don’t have to struggle with difficult backing maneuvers.

3. Shoreline Fishing and Ancient History

Westlake Park isn’t just about high-energy boating; it is also a site of significant archaeological importance. The land sits above a prehistoric site where remains dating back to 12,000 B.C. have been discovered, marking it as one of the oldest human-inhabited sites in the Southwestern United States.

Angler’s Corner

For modern-day inhabitants, the fishing is just as legendary as the history.

  • Species: Anglers frequent Westlake’s rocky shoreline for Largemouth Bass, White Bass, and Hybrid Striped Bass.
  • Structure: The limestone ledges and submerged “chunk rock” near the park provide excellent cover for fish.
  • Bank Fishing: Because the park has extensive shoreline access away from the boat ramp, bank fishers can easily find a quiet cove to set up a chair and wait for a bite.

4. Swimming and Passive Recreation

While Little Elm Park holds the title for the largest sandy beach, Westlake Park offers a more “natural” swimming experience.

  • Designated Swim Area: The park features a roped-off swimming beach that is strictly for people—no boats allowed. The water here is generally clear (by North Texas lake standards) and the area is surrounded by shaded picnic tables.
  • Picnic Paradise: One of Westlake’s best-kept secrets is the sheer number of shaded picnic tables located right at the water’s edge. Many are close enough to the shore that you can watch the kids swim or keep an eye on your fishing pole while you eat lunch.

5. Essential Visitor Information (2026 Guide)

To ensure your trip to Westlake Park is seamless, keep these logistical details in mind:

Fees and Admission

  • Day Use Fee: Typically $5 per vehicle.
  • Shared Access: A unique perk of Westlake is its connection to Oakland Park. Your entry fee often grants you access to both parks, allowing you to explore the different shorelines of Hickory Creek.
  • Payment: Like most USACE sites, Westlake has moved toward a cashless system. Be prepared to pay via credit/debit or through the mobile app.

Hours and Seasonality

  • Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
  • Day Use Only: Unlike Hickory Creek Park or Hickory Creek Park Campground (located just down the road), there is no overnight camping permitted at Westlake Park.

Location

  • Address: 2000 Main St, Hickory Creek, TX 75065.
  • Proximity: It is conveniently located just off I-35E (Swisher Exit), making it an easy 30-minute drive from your home in Southlake or your office in Colleyville.

Why Choose Westlake Park?

Westlake Park succeeds because it offers a “grown-up” lake experience. It lacks the loud music and crowded boardwalks of other Lewisville parks, focusing instead on utility and natural beauty. It is the park you choose when you want to host 100 people for a grilled lunch, launch your boat for a day in the Party Cove, or simply sit under a Bur Oak tree and watch the sun set over the Lake Lewisville bridge.

Address:

East Main Street in Hickory Creek, Texas.

Phone:  469-645-9100

More information on Westlake Park is available at the US Army Corps of Engineers website.

Note: all fees are subject to change without notice. Please check with the parks directly or with the gate attendants for all official pricing.