Clear Creek
Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center (CCNHC) is a gateway to more than 2,900 acres of bottomland hardwood forest, upland prairie, and diverse aquatic habitats.
Located within Lake Lewisville's upper floodplain and managed by the City of Denton, it provides residents and visitors with unmatched ecological, educational, and recreational opportunities. Clear Creek Natural Heritage Area includes the confluence of Clear Creek and the Elm Fork of the Trinity River and was originally established to protect and restore rare bottomland and upland prairie ecosystems. The City leases the land from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and is responsible for operation and maintenance of Clear Creek Natural Heritage Area.
Mission
The mission of CCNHC is to inspire environmental citizenship through an understanding of the natural heritage of north central Texas by providing nature experiences, education and research programs, and conservation and restoration projects.
Hike the Trails at Clear Creek
Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center features more than 10 miles of family-friendly hiking trails through diverse habitats. Fisherman's Trail winds along Clear Creek to the Elm Fork confluence. Wetlands Trail allows visitors to view constructed wetlands with inhabitants such as waterfowl, herons, and beavers. Old Wetlands Road and High Trail wind through thick, majestic bottomland forest. The outer loop of the trails system totals 3.2 miles - perfect for 5K trail runners.
Please stay on the trails at Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center. Visitors are prohibited from creating new trails or removing vegetation from the property. This includes foraging or taking items from the property.
Please check our social media for updates on trail conditions.
Mountain Bike Trails
Located at 5792 Hartlee Field Rd., Denton, TX 76208
There is a dedicated mountain bike trail located on the north side of Clear Creek at the Davis Gate. Mountain bikes are not permitted on the hiking trails at Clear Creek Collins Gate.
- Are there restrooms and is water available?
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There are restrooms and potable water available in the Center when it is open. A portable toilet is available next to the parking area on Collins Road. No potable water is available when the Center is closed, so please bring your own.
- Can I bring my dog to Clear Creek?
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Yes, dogs on leash are permitted on trails.
- Can I bring my horse/ATV/vehicle on the trails?
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Trails are open to hikers only. We are in the process of designating trails for bicyclists.
- How do I get to Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center (CCNHC)?
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Recommended Route
- Take 380/University East of Denton to Cooper Creek
- Turn N on Cooper Creek (at light)
- Go over the railroad tracks to the stop sign
- Turn right onto Mingo Road
- Continue for 1.33 miles to stop sign at Collins
- Turn left onto Collins and continue for a little less than a mile
- Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center entrance will be on your right
- Is camping allowed at CCNHC?
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Number
- Is the education center open to the public?
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The Center is open only during workshops and events. The hiking trails are open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, unless trails are closed due to poor trail conditions.
- Can I schedule a hike with a Master Naturalist?
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Yes, trained Master Naturalists are available to guide your group on a hike through beautiful, hidden natural areas. Specific areas of interest include native wildflowers and grasses, trees, wetlands, birds, mammals, geology, and a basic understanding of the Cross Timbers eco-region. Topic availability may vary due to the schedules of our volunteers. There is no charge or fee for a guided hike; but, please schedule for a minimum of five people per group. Please bring your own water, sun screen, and insect repellent, as required, and wear close-toed shoes. To arrange your hike, email the Master Naturalist.
- Are dogs allowed on the trails in Denton?
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Yes, but dogs must be on a leash.
- Are there restrooms?
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Each parking area has restrooms, picnic tables, and kayak/canoe take-outs and put-ins.
- Can I swim in the river?
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Yes, at one of the beach areas. No lifeguards are on duty.
- Is hunting allowed?
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No hunting is permitted within City of Denton parks. However, a portion of Clear Creek Natural Heritage Area (CCNHA) is designated as a wildlife management area. Hunting is permitted with a paid permit issued by Denton Parks and Recreation. More information can be found on the City's Hunting page. No hunting is permitted at the Clear Creek or Davis gates (west of the Elm Fork).
- Is the education center open to the public?
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The Center is open only during workshops and events. The hiking trails are open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, unless trails are closed due to poor trail conditions.
- Are dogs allowed in Denton parks, playgrounds, and pavilions?
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No, Denton County has a Leash Law which means an animal must be restrained, if it is not on property belonging to the animal's owner. We do however have a dedicated dog park, Wiggly Field that is located at 1760 E Ryan Road Dogs are NOT allowed off leash anywhere other than the fenced off area. The City also has a "pooper scooper law" per City of Denton Code of Ordinances; Chapter 6 Section 6-10. Defecation of dogs on public and private property. So, please be sure to clean up after your dog.
- Are metal detectors permitted in and around Denton parks and playgrounds?
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Metal detectors are discouraged due to potential damage to turf and irrigation systems and safety concerns related to soil excavation and divots left in the turf.
- How do I inquire about lost property at a parks, playground, or pavilion?
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Please call 940-349-7275. Our customer service staff will do their best to assist you.