Garth Nature Area

Garth Nature area has a lot going for it. First, it is easily accessible (and so close to a lot of neighborhoods, and always seems well-​maintained. There are restrooms, a drinking fountain, and plenty of parking spots for the size of the park.
The dog park is a decent size and has plenty of space for even the largest dogs to run around. It also has a pond for water-​loving dogs. The park is open year-​round, which is such a benefit for those random warm winter days we get in the Midwest.
The trails are all gravel, which is something to keep in mind. There is a nice loop through some wetlands and trees that is about 1.5 miles, or you can go on a longer jaunt and connect to Cosmo Park or Bear Creek Trail. The wetlands are not something you find in most parks, and the nature lover in me especially enjoys that aspect of Garth Nature Area. If you live nearby, definitely worth checking out.

Garth Nature Area is a beautiful park showcasing wetland habitat. As an avid birder and outdoorsman, GNA is perfect for an early spring stroll to view wildlife of all kinds. It’s amazing to think this area is surrounded by residential neighborhoods, but still sees such a wonderful variety of wildlife.
The trails are well-​kept and connect with the Bear Creek Trail that stretches from Garland Middle School west to Rhett’s Run in Cosmo Park. They are generally raised from the surrounding area and covered in crushed gravel similar to the MKT and Katy Trails. Bird boxes line the ponds and most of the ponds are covered in cattails. Park benches are dotted around for rest, reflection, or wildlife viewing.
Yes, there is a fenced dog park. My dogs were never huge fans of it … rescue dogs of high intelligence and low self-​esteem. My greyhound ran around for 5 minutes and then slept. My rescue mutt stood on the table and looked in disgust at all the other dogs wanting to play. Still, for your high-​energy, playful types, this place is a godsend.

Garth Nature Area has trails for walking and running and a large, fenced dog park. I take my dogs here regularly and the park is clean and well-​maintained. My dogs love to swim in the pond or just play fetch in the huge grassy area.