Lake Brownwood State Park has several paths, but it only takes 3-4 times hiking to cover the entire park. Our first adventure was close to the gate. There was a public “feral pig” hunt going on in the park last time we visited. Closed for pig hunting – that led to asking some questions. Yes. They are everywhere. Yes. They tear up the land. Yes. They reproduce like crazy.
We returned for a look around the park a couple weeks later. Lake Brownwood was formed when a dam was built at Pecan Bayou and Jim Ned Creek. This area had been home to Native Americans, Spanish explorers and settlers from Europe and the eastern United States in the westward migration of the 1800-1900s.
Where do you like to vacation? Ocean? City? Mountain? Desert? What are your favorite water sports?
In 1933, the Brown County Water District sold over 500 acres on the lake to the State Parks Board to establish a recreational state park. Over 100 structures and projects, paths, the seventeen cabins, recreation hall/dance pavilion, tables, viewing areas, buildings and boat dock with grand staircase, two residences and a fishing lodge were constructed by the CCC group of young men from 1934 – 1942 using local stone and timber.
“Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” “ Matthew 14:25-33
During the depression, the Civil Works Administration created projects for unemployed young men aged 18-25 across America to have work and help feed their families. These Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) camps of workers built many structures designed by National Park Service architects all over the country. My maternal grandfather was in the CCC as well.
Ninety years later, we enjoy these many fine examples of CCC work at Lake Brownwood State Park in our new hometown area.
