Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve — Attraction in Plano

This preserve is awesome for taking a stroll in the great outdoors. Upon arrival, you'll see a ton of cars in the expansive parking lot. But don't fret - there are SOOOO many trails here, that it usually doesn't get crowded. Maybe a bit busy, but not "crowded."

The thing I like about this trail system is that there is a mix of paved trails and natural trails. I prefer the natural trails since fewer people use them, but the benefit of the paved trails is if you show up and the natural trails are too muddy to hike on, you still have plenty of space to roam in this beautiful preserve.

There's a beautiful pond to walk around and you can usually spot plenty of water fowl along the banks.

The natural trails that go through the woods meander along the banks of Rowlett Creek. It's a serene setting, but be forewarned there is usually some trash lodged in the branches along the high creek banks - this is to to flood runoff from the roadways, etc. (dumb people littering on the roads). If you get creative, you can get 5 to 6 miles on the natural trails. The trails are rated at easy, as there is VERY minimal incline - but not much choice in this part of Texas :(

Biking is allowed on the miles and miles of paved trails, but not the natural trails.

The pond - fishing, kayaking, canoeing are allowed, but no swimming.

There is also an overhead zipline and aerial obstacle course between the trees - this is not free and is provided by a private organization by the name of "Go Ape." Check them out on Yelp.

The bottom line is this is a very beautiful trail system that the people of Plano are very...

A Biker’s Paradise

Oak Point Park in Plano is a true hidden gem for nature lovers, especially those who enjoy biking. Every ride through the park feels like a refreshing escape from the hustle of city life, offering a peaceful blend of scenic beauty, well-maintained trails, and abundant wildlife.

The paved trails wind through lush greenery, open fields, and serene wooded areas, making each ride an adventure. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife—turtles basking in the sun by the creek, graceful egrets wading in the water, and the occasional bobcat, raccoon, armadillo, or coyote crossing in the distance. It’s incredible how these animals live in harmony with visitors, adding to the immersive experience of being in nature.

One of the best parts of biking through Oak Point is continuing on to Bob Woodruff Park. The transition between the two is seamless, with scenic bridges and winding trails that extend the journey into an even more enjoyable ride. The sense of tranquility never fades, and there’s always a perfect spot to pause, take in the view, and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you.

Whether you’re out for a leisurely ride, a peaceful walk, or a longer endurance run, Oak Point Park never disappoints. It’s the perfect place to unwind, reconnect with nature, and experience the simple joy of the outdoors. If you haven’t been yet, you’re missing out on one of the best outdoor experiences...

The nature preserve is good, but what I observed from the paved paths that I walked wasn't comparable or superior to other parks and preserves that I have visited in the metro. Perhaps if I had walked some nature trails, I would have a higher opinion of this place. If I returned, then I would need to walk nature trails or visit during a different season to potentially get a better experience. Ultimately, I was bored and unimpressed.

EDIT Early Autumn 2022: I have updated my review from 3 to 4 stars after visiting this nature preserve a second and third time in September and early October 2022 to mostly hike natural surface trails. The primary trails that I hiked were a large extent of the Caddo Trail and most of the Rowlett Creek trail. From these two trails, I also took the Redbud Way, Sandbar Scramble, and Willow Springs trails.

Street traffic can be heard through much of the preserve but isn't bad in my opinion. The natural surface trails are well maintained, easy to walk, and scenic. I particularly like the boardwalks, the bridges, and the audible or deep looking parts of the creek.

Judging the park on its own merits, I like it, and there are some elements of the concrete, dirt, and boardwalk sections of trails that are not found at Arbor Hills Nature Preserve on the opposite side of town such as the pedestrian tunnel...