Visiting Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center

Denton is a great day trip when you stay at Lone Oak Ranch and Retreat and a place worth your time is Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center. Though Denton is a gateway to the Dallas metro area, Clear Creek is a great way to escape the city and enjoy the serenity of nature. Visitors will find opportunities for hiking, fishing and birdwatching as just some of the Denton outdoor activities available to them. Come enjoy the peace and tranquility of Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center in Denton as part of your North Texas travel plans.

What is Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center?

Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center encompasses 2,900 acres of bottomland hardwood forests, upland prairie and aquatic habitats. The Elm Fork Trinity River and Clear Creek both run through the area, adding to the natural beauty. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the operation and maintenance of the area. The area is free to all guests and is open daily from dawn to dusk.

Where is Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center?

Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center, 3310 Collins Road, sits about 35 miles south of Lone Oak Ranch and Retreat as well as about 6 miles from the center of Denton. Its sits north of Lewisville Lake and south of Lake Ray Roberts in the upper flood plain. Lone Oak guests can access the center via Interstate 35 and State Route 288. 

Clear Creek Trails

There are over 10 miles of hiking trails in Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center. These trails are all family-friendly and help visitors explore the diverse scenery. The Fisherman’s Trail takes hikers along the Clear Creek and the confluence of Elm Fork Trinity River. Another trail to help you enjoy the aquatic area is the Wetlands Trail, which is a great way to see the local wildlife. This wildlife includes waterfowl, herons and beavers. If you want to enjoy the forested areas, take a trip on the Old Wetlands Road and High Trail. There is also an outer loop on the trail system that measures 3.2 miles and is popular with 5K runners. The heritage center asks all guests to stay on the trails and not create new trails. You can check the status of each tree via the center’s Facebook page. 

Denton Greenbelt

The Denton Greenbelt isn’t part of Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center but sits adjacent to it. This is a 20-mile multi-use trail that Texas Parks and Wildlife operate. This area funs from the Ray Roberts Dam to the headwaters of Lake Lewisville. The trails allow for 12 miles for equestrians and 10 miles for bicyclists and hikers. There is also access to the Elm Fork of the Trinity River for kayaks and canoes. There is a $7 entrance fee. This is another great way to enjoy the natural beauty near Denton.

Fishing at Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center

Both Clear Creek and the Elm Fork of the Trinity River offer fishing opportunities for visitors. There are benches and easy access to the rivers and ponds are home to many fish native to the area. These species include bass, crappie, catfish, sunfish and carp. It’s important to note that all visitors under 17 will need a valid Texas Fishing License before dropping in a line.

Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center Activities

Along with a host of outdoor activities, Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center also hosts several activities and workshops. The workshops are free and cover a variety of topics. This includes organic gardening, rainwater harvesting, composting and vermiculture. While all workshops are free, there is limited space so be aware there may be required registration. Guests can expect workshops once a month on Saturday mornings. Check out the events calendar for specific activities.