Park Hours
7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Park Size
212 acres
Erwin Park
Future Park Improvement
Renovation at Erwin Park is expected to begin early 2026 and last approximately one year. Campsites and pavilions will be closed during this time.
This construction project does not include DORBA-maintained bike paths and skills courses. However, some sections could be temporarily closed due to nearby construction.
Check this page for closure information. Visit the Park Projects page to learn more about the renovation.
Amenities
- BBQ grills
- Pavilion
- Pond
- Tent camping and pavilion rentals
- Two Restrooms
- Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association (DORBA) maintained trails
- Natural Surface Trail: 1 Mile
- Mountain Bike Trail: 11 miles
- Progressive mountain bike skills course
Special Features
- AED
- Large expanses of open space
- Natural wooded areas
- Three firewood kiosks – Donations benefitting McKinney Parks Foundation
- Two Dero bike repair stations for minor repairs
- Stations include tools, a stand to hold the bike, and an air pump
Parking
- Dedicated parking
Rentals
- Three pavilions, one with electricity
- 12 designated campfire sites
- Map of campsites – PDF
How to Rent
- Residents can reserve pavilions up to six months in advance for $42.50, non-residents may reserve up to three months in advance for $70.
- Pavilion reservations begin at 3 p.m. and end at noon the next day. Pavilion Rental includes overnight camping only by the pavilion reserved.
- Campsite reservations are $12.50 for residents and $20 for non-residents.
- Facility reservation inquiries
- Erwin Park FAQ
For more rental information, please call the Recreation Center at Towne Lake at 972-547-2690.
Erwin Park is carrying on the tradition of establishing itself as a prairie land restoration destination. Its natural beauty and mystique attract guests from all around. Whether you go on a nature hike, reserve a camping spot, or ride the mountain bike skills course, you’ll appreciate the view.
Planting is ongoing; please respect the seedlings as they germinate into full, mature plants.
The seed mix is known as the Blackland Prairie Mix and contains 45 species of wildflowers and grasses. Some of the more common plants are Little Bluestem, Buffalo grass, Blanket flowers, Black-eyed Susan, and Butterfly weed. Come and enjoy the native plants and let them inspire you throughout the year!
Learn more about the Blackland Prairie ecological region from Texas Parks & Wildlife.
A prescribed burn, also known as a controlled burn, is a planned fire used to meet parkland management objectives.
According to the U.S. Forest Service, an ecosystem needs periodic fire to remain healthy. Overcrowding can stress trees and native plants, fire-dependent plants and animals can disappear, and plant build-up can become hazardous.
Reasons for Controlled Burns
- Reduces hazardous fuels, protecting communities from extreme fires
- Minimizes the spread of pests, insects, and disease
- Removes unwanted species that threaten species native to an ecosystem
- Provides forage for game
- Improves habitat for threatened and endangered species
- Recycles nutrients back into the soil
- Promotes the growth of trees, wildflowers, and other plants
For more information about controlled burns, visit Texas Parks & Wildlife.
Why We’re Conducting a Prescribed Burn
Erwin Park is one of our most popular and diverse parks. We believe that a controlled burn is the best tool currently available to help maintain the park’s biodiversity. This controlled burn is being coordinated after consultation with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. The controlled burn also provides the McKinney Fire Department with a unique training opportunity.
The pond at Erwin Park requires all anglers to follow Texas Parks & Wildlife regulations.
A Fishing License is required for those 18 years of age or older. Those 17 years of age and younger are not required to have a license.
While fishing, it is illegal to be in possession of more fish than the daily bag limit or fish that are within a protected length limit.