Cameron Park Points of Interest

Photo of bridge in Cameron Park's Proctor Springs.

From scenic overlooks, twisting trails and giant playgrounds to picnic spots, riverfront fishing and an award-winning zoo, Cameron Park is a true Waco gem with something new to discover in every corner.

Playgrounds & Splash Pads

Photo of playground in Anniversary Park.

Anniversary Park is a favorite spot for field trips and birthday parties. The area is located next to the Cameron Park Clubhouse and Miss Nellie's Pretty Place and features a playground, pavilion and restrooms.

Photo of playground, pavilion and park benches in Northern Gateway Park.

Northern Gateway Park is perfect for events and parties, plus you're at the very top of Cameron Park's trail system. Neighboring Lovers Leap, this area is the longtime home of picnics and ball games. The park features a large pavilion, playground, water misters, a backstop and trail access.

Photo of kids playing in the splash pad at Pecan Bottoms.

Situated along the banks of the Brazos River in Cameron Park, Pecan Bottoms features a giant playground with swings, slides, bridges and climbing obstacles. The area also includes a splash pad, picnic area and restrooms. 

Lovers Leap

Photo of Lovers Leap viewpoint overlooking the river.

For more than 100 years, park visitors have stood atop the Cameron Park cliffs and pondered the legend of Lovers Leap. This is one of the park's most popular attractions. The site features two pavilions, an overlook plaza, restrooms, a walking trail and countryside views.

Emmons Cliff

Photo of limestone cliffs, the river and Emmons Cliff overlook.

Emmons Cliff is highlighted by rolling parkland filled with cedars and oaks. The area also features a wooded river overlook just a short hike from the main road. Emmons Cliff has three small pavilions, as well as picnic tables.

Mouth of the Bosque

With a soft breeze and rivers gliding by, Mouth of the Bosque is a natural sanctuary for relaxation. Located in the middle of the trail system, this escape features restrooms and a small pavilion, with a waterfront view of the Brazos and Bosque Rivers.

Circle Point

Photo of pavilion and Circle Point overlook.

Perched 100 feet above the Brazos River, Circle Point provides panoramic river views and a glimpse of downtown Waco. The area includes a small pavilion, picnic tables and an observation hill.

Lawson's Point

Photo of pavilion and picnic area at Lawson's Point.

Lawson's Point sits along Cameron Park Drive and includes two shelters surrounded by oak trees, a walking loop and open fields. The area provides easy trail access and is located just above the river trail.

Miss Nellie's Pretty Place

Photo of fountain at Miss Nellie's Pretty Place.

With bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes and black-eyed Susans, Miss Nellie's Pretty Place in Cameron Park is the perfect spot for springtime family photos. The 6-acre wildflower preserve also includes a fountain plaza and walking path and serves as an outdoor classroom.

Jacob's Ladder & Rock Shelter

Photo of Jacob's Ladder staircase in Cameron Park.

Climbing this quirky staircase is one of Cameron Park's most beloved challenges. Built in the early 1900s by a family living at the top of the bluff, the original ladder was constructed entirely out of cedar trees from the park. 

The present-day Jacob's Ladder was completed in 1963 and is characterized by its cedar railing, zigzag design and uneven cement stairs. Each step was built according to the ground's slope, which accounts for the uniqueness of each step. The aged structure now includes 88 winding steps to the top and is still usable today, due to periodic renovations.

Cameron Park Zoo

Photo of two tiger cubs at Cameron Park Zoo.

The Cameron Park Zoo is an award-winning natural habitat facility accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. Visitors can explore the Asian Forest, experience the African Savannah or travel through the Brazos River Country and its 50,000-gallon saltwater aquarium. While in Cameron Park, listen closely. The roar of a lion can often be heard echoing along the river.