New state park being considered

CHANDLER – The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is currently taking public comments on a proposed land purchase for a new state park at Lake Palestine. The new park would be built on 650 acres of land that an East Texan is willing to sell the state in order for them to create a new state park. The land is on the shore of Lake Palestine and is being proposed as an ideal spot for camping, boating, swimming, paddleboarding, hunting, fishing, hiking and more.

“Staff acquires new state parks from willing sellers to expand and improve recreational opportunities, conserve fish and wildlife habitat, and complement conservation and recreation on existing Texas Parks and Wildlife Department public lands,” the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department said. “Acquisition of this tract will add a new state park to the department’s public land system in a region that is currently considered to be underserved and provide greater outdoor experiences and opportunities for the citizens of Texas.”

The land sits on Lake Palestine roughly halfway between Chandler and Moore Station in Henderson County. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is taking online comments on what Texans think about their proposed acquisition until Aug.19 at 5 p.m.