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History: Atlanta State Park is 1475 acres on Lake Wright Patman Dam in Cass County, a few miles southwest of Texarkana. Texas acquired the land in 1954 by Department of the Army License which expires in 2004 with option to renew to 2054.

Caddo Indians, the most culturally advanced tribe in Texas, once made this area their home. The Caddos settled the area peacefully as farmers, unlike their nomadic and warlike brother, the Apaches and Comanches. Excavations conducted by the Smithsonian Institute produced many graves and artifacts, and archaeologists found evidence of a house pattern with post molds still intact.

Activities: The park offers swimming in a designated sandy beach area (no lifeguard on duty) on Wright Patman Lake, a nature trail and a hiking trail of five miles, water skiing, boating (canoe rentals are available at the park), and fishing. Wright Patman Lake is also a popular fishing spot. The reservoir covers 20,300 acres and has an average depth of 7.6 feet. There are 170 miles of shoreline. On shore, the activities include walking, nature study, hiking, camping, picnicking, or jogging along roads, trails or shorelines. Bicycling is popular along the hilly park and area roads.