New Nature Center Opening Saturday in Popular State Park

VALLEY VIEW – Ray Roberts Lake State Park is hosting a grand opening of a new Nature Center at the Johnson Branch of the park Saturday, October 9. The grand opening event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., beginning with a dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony followed by tours of the facility. The park is also waiving entrance fees for this special event.

“We are all very excited to open the new Nature Center to the public at last,” said Robbie Merritt, Park Superintendent. “This facility is the result of many years of vision and dedicated work by numerous park staff, volunteers, partner organizations, and private donors that have made it all possible. It will significantly enhance our public services at Johnson Branch.”

In addition to the Nature Center tours, the park will host numerous activities for children and have booths showcasing Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) programs, various outdoor recreation opportunities, and TPWD jobs. Area partners such as the Dallas Off Road Bicycle Association, Texas Master Naturalists, Texas Forest Service, and many others will also be on hand to interact with visitors.

This project was made possible by a generous donation from the Araoz family in honor of Eulalia Araoz.

“Their contribution has allowed us to produce a facility that will help educate and connect current and future generations to the wondrous natural and cultural resources here at Ray Roberts Lake State Park,” said Merritt.

Lake Ray Roberts is surrounded by the state park, wildlife management areas, wetlands and waterfowl sanctuaries. TPWD operates Ray Roberts Lake State Park under lease from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the cities of Dallas and Denton. Ray Roberts Lake State Park has nine developed units, including Isle du Bois, Johnson Branch, Jordan, Sanger, and the Ray Roberts Greenbelt.

The Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch is located at 100 PW 4153, Valley View, TX, 76272. More information on the park can be found on the Ray Roberts Lake State Park webpage on the TPWD website.