Bobby Ferguson Park | Texarkana

Information

Landmark: Bobby Ferguson Park
City: Texarkana
Country: USA Arkansas
Continent: North America

Bobby Ferguson Park, Texarkana, USA Arkansas, North America

Bobby Ferguson Park is a municipal park located in Texarkana, Arkansas, USA.

This park serves as a recreational area for the local community.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a large, man-made lake with a surface area of approximately 10 acres. The lake's perimeter is lined with mature trees, primarily oak and pine species, providing significant canopy cover. Open grassy areas are interspersed throughout the park. The terrain is generally flat with some gentle slopes leading down to the water's edge.

Location & Access Logistics

Bobby Ferguson Park is situated at 3000 North State Line Avenue, Texarkana, Arkansas. It is approximately 4.5 kilometers north of the Texarkana city center. Access is directly from North State Line Avenue, which is also U.S. Route 71. A dedicated entrance road leads into the park. Ample parking is available in designated lots throughout the park, with capacity for approximately 150 vehicles. Public transport options are limited; however, the Texarkana Urban Transit District (TUTD) Route 3 bus stops within 0.5 kilometers of the park entrance on North State Line Avenue.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The park was established in the mid-20th century, with the lake being a significant feature developed during its initial construction. The lake was created by damming a small tributary of the Red River. The area is classified as a mixed pine-hardwood forest ecosystem, typical of the Gulf Coastal Plain region.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities available include fishing from the lake's shore or designated fishing piers. Boat launching is permitted for non-motorized vessels. Designated picnic areas with grills are available. Walking trails of varying lengths are present, with the main loop around the lake measuring approximately 2.5 kilometers. Birdwatching is a common activity due to the diverse avian population.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restroom facilities are located near the main parking area and the central picnic shelter. Several picnic shelters provide shade. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the park. No on-site food vendors operate within the park; however, commercial establishments are located along North State Line Avenue, approximately 0.5 kilometers from the park entrance.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning and late afternoon offer optimal lighting conditions due to the angle of the sun. The best months for outdoor activities are April through October, with temperatures typically ranging from 15°C to 30°C. Fishing is often most productive during the cooler morning and evening hours, particularly in spring and fall. No specific tide requirements apply as the lake is freshwater.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that the lake was once home to an unusually large catfish, though this remains unverified. The park is a popular spot for local fishing tournaments, with records of significant catches being maintained by the Texarkana Parks and Recreation Department.