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Mother Neff State Park |
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1680 SH 236
Moody TX 76557-3317
254/853-2389
History: Mother Neff State Park is the first official state park in Texas. It is
named for Mrs. Isabella Eleanor (Mother) Neff who donated six acres of land
along the Leon River in 1916 which became the first park site. Her son was Texas
Governor Pat M. Neff, who served as Governor from 1921 to 1925. After the death
of his mother in 1921, Governor Neff created the Mother Neff Memorial Park which
later became the nucleus of the Texas State Park System. The park, located west
of Moody, now contains 259 acres in Coryell County. The additional land was
deeded to the state in 1934 by private owners; Governor Neff deeded 250 acres
and Mr. Frank Smith deeded 3 acres. The park was opened to the public in 1937.
In the 1930's, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) restored the park to its
historical setting. An excavation in 1935 unearthed three Indian graves and many
artifacts. During prehistoric times this area was occupied by several groups of
Indians, including some groups probably related to the Tonkawas. Heavily wooded,
the park is ideal for camping, hiking, picnicking, and fishing.
Activities: The main activities are camping, hiking, picnicking, fishing from
the river bank, and wildlife observation.The park provides a junior ranger
program that allows children from ages 4-12 to earn a special badge &
certificate. For interested hikers a tree guide is available at the park
headquarters which provides a self guided tour along the lost trail. |
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