Erwin Park
Amenities
- BBQ grills
- Large expanses of open space
- Pavilion
- Pond
- Tent Camping and pavilion rentals available
- (2) Restrooms
- Trails
Special Features
- Three firewood kiosks – Donations benefitting McKinney Parks Foundation
- Natural wooded areas
- Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association (DORBA) maintained trails
- 11 miles of mountain bike trails – PDF
- Progressive mountain bike skills course
- Two Dero bike repair stations for minor repairs
- Stations include tools, a stand to hold the bike, and an air pump
- AED
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.