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Houston, TX

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Willow Waterhole Conservation Reserve

4.0 (17 reviews)
Open • 7:00 am - 6:30 pm

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Day D.

So pretty. There's really no parking signs but I parked on the gravel road in front of the park. I'll most definitely be coming here to run.

Karen 2.

this is a nice place to walk. paths are big and is like 2 miles loop around. some nice flowers & good views of the water.

Blue bonnets
Bijou N.

Great little park to check out the blue bonnets! It does not have very much shade so avoid going in the middle of the day like we did. Parking is very easy here with street parking. There are bugs so maybe wear some bug spray!

Park map, not the best photo, check out the park website for a better image
Rebecca B.

A lot to like and a lot to dislike - this park consists of 5 interconnected water retention ponds (with a 6th on the other side of S Post Oak Road). The main "lake" is Westbury Lake. It's a good place for locals who are bored of the other city parks to have an urban adventure, but not a place to bring out-of-town guests. This park is a true reflection of real Houston, with pockets of beauty interspersed among urban blight. One moment you're looking at rolling hills along a tree-lined lake, then you round the corner to see a massive eyesore of a gravel dumping ground below Highway 90. Part of Westbury Lake (one of the 6 lakes) is next to an abandoned industrial site. With that said, Westbury Lake is quite nice. Everything else not worth writing home about. If you live in the neighborhood it's a great place to go for a run or a walk. The park has a redevelopment planned so perhaps in 5 years it will be the next Buffalo Bayou Park or maybe even Levy Park - it does have great potential, with good walking trails (partially gravel and partially paved). Not a lot of shade so avoid in the summer heat. Not for road bikes as some paved trails turn into gravel trails. Hybrid bikes would work but it's a short ride around. Good for walkers. A volunteer association takes care of the grounds and the park is very clean with no trash. Probably the best thing about this park is the lack of crowds. Unlike Memorial Park and Hermann Park, very few people come here and parking is a breeze. The main parking lot is 5300 Dryad St; the Googlemaps listing for Willow Waterhole is 5201 S Willow Drive which you can't park at - if you used this address, then just as you start questioning your park choices, you should see RiceCrest Street, on which you can park right next to the walking trails. Note that the RiceCrest parking is next to Triangle Lake, but the main lake you want to visit is Westbury Lake (an easy stroll south from Triangle Lake).

Cynthia V.

What a lovely neighborhood park! Certainly seems like a secret only locals know about because it was a beauty day and not many people were around. Like some other reviewers mention, the park is a work in progress with some trails paved and others just crushed stone or grass. There are several signs educating you about the park and it's wildlife, plenty of benches, and lots of picnic tables. Fishing and kayaking are allowed in the lakes as well.

Willow Waterhole
Kiril K.

If you have never been and want to get your first look, and want to understand the trail system around this 6 retention pond nature venue, then I very much recommend the free 2 1/2 mile guided tour the next time it is offered. The Metro #7 stops here, and there is some parking. However, be prepared for the fact that, currently, there is only 1 porta potty...out by the Gazebo. The trails are paved, dirt and gravel. Overall, a great place to walk and explore.

It's really pretty

I think it's a really nice park. I think they are putting in more sidewalks and everything it is a nice park despite the one I normally go too.

Alexis B.

Hard to figure out where to go or where to park! Some areas of the reserve are further developed than others! The park is definitely still in development. It needs a lot of work! But it's a cool place to take a walk or take your dog for a walk!

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Ask the Community - Willow Waterhole Conservation Reserve

Review Highlights - Willow Waterhole Conservation Reserve

“The gazebo is nearby, as well as a few benches along the path, water fountains and a port-a-potty.”

Mentioned in 3 reviews

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Buffalo Bayou Park - The Cistern

Buffalo Bayou Park

(333 reviews)

Downtown

This is a long review because I've worked on it for a long time…read more.. If you asked me to pick one place that defines Houston, it would be Buffalo Bayou Park. I've spent countless hours here running and riding my bike. Some days it's a quick evening jog, other days it's a long ride from Eleanor Tinsley Park toward Memorial Park or connecting through the trails to the University of Houston. No matter how many times I come back, it never gets old. The park has been the backdrop for so many of my favorite Houston memories. I came here for Free Press Summer Fest back in the day, Freedom Over Texas fireworks, the Art Car Parade, Pride celebrations, marathons, half marathons, 5Ks, and even the Texas Independence Relay. It's one of those places that feels completely different depending on the day. Sometimes it's quiet and peaceful, and other times it's filled with thousands of people celebrating everything that makes Houston unique. It also reminds me of some of the city's hardest moments. I'll never forget walking down after Hurricane Harvey and seeing the bayou swollen all the way up to Allen Parkway. It was hard to comprehend just how much water had moved through here. Seeing the park recover over time has been a reminder of Houston's resilience. One of my favorite discoveries has been the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern. It's such a unique experience and a reminder that there's always something new to explore, even after years of visiting the park. What I love most is how connected everything feels. The trails weave through the city with incredible downtown views, public art, green spaces, bridges, and plenty of places to stop and take it all in. Whether you're training for a race, out for a casual walk, riding your bike, or just enjoying the skyline, there's a reason people keep coming back. Buffalo Bayou Park isn't just another park to me. It's where I've made memories, challenged myself, celebrated with the city, and found a place to unwind. Every visit reminds me why I love living in Houston. I already can't wait for my next run, and I hope to see you out there.

BEAUTIFUL PARK! I have lived in Houston for years and only ever scratched the surface of this…read moreBuffalo Bayou Park. It's so clean and I absolutely love all the wild flowers this time of year. This is one of the best place to bike in the inner loop with the separated biking and pedestrian trails. Connects to the heights and all major neighborhoods. A lovely place to get a walk or bike ride in on the evenings or weekends! There are quite a few manicured grass spots for picnics or to bring a book, as well as shaded areas. I have always felt very safe at this park. A 'not so hidden' gem as parking can be a little tough, but leads to not very busy trails. I never realized how beautiful this park is compared to the days I would only drive by!

Terry Hershey Park - Come during the day time to see the wildflowers.

Terry Hershey Park

(116 reviews)

Energy Corridor

*This review specifically pertains to the DAIRY ASHFORD ENTRANCE/PARKING AREA as well as hiking…read morewith a baby stroller.* DAIRY ASHFORD ENTRANCE/PARKING AREA: It was easy to park as it was a large area and we had no issue finding a spot (on a Saturday afternoon). From this area, you can access two different stroller-friendly trails that both run along the Bayou: The Robin Trail and the Quail Trail. The Robin Trail is accessible right from the parking lot. The Robin Trail is serene and has a remote feel. The Quail Trail is the main trail that runs through the park. To access it from this parking area, you have to turn right to walk alongside the road (Dairy Ashford Rd.) for a few feet, and turn right onto the Quail Trail. Basically, you have to cross the Bayou. The Quail Trail is lovely but feels less remote than the Robin Trail. You will see houses on one side and will encounter lots of bikers (be careful and pay attention). I'd honestly recommend doing both trails, if you have the time. We did the Robin Trail (turned back at the Robin Loop) and a portion of the Quail Trail (turned back at Kirkwood) and it was a nice 2.5 miles. I'd recommend this route for any parents looking for a nice day outing. Overall, this is a lovely park. Great for feeling like you're away from the city at certain spots. Please note that there are multiple entrances/parking areas. I'd recommend doing your research so you can choose the best one for you. Here is a map for reference: https://www.pct3.com/portals/45/docs/map/terry-hershey-park.pdf.

It's so great living near to this large park. I feel safe walking mornings or evenings because it's…read moretypically at least scattered with bikers, baby carriages and dog walkers. I would love for it to have more signage. It's so large I've gotten turned around a few times and end of walking for 2-3 hours instead of just the 45 minutes I intended on. Lol.

Upper Horsepen Creek Park

Upper Horsepen Creek Park

(83 reviews)

As evidenced by his refusal to leave for 5 full minutes, my rescued fur baby gives this park…read more5-stars. Coming in at a hefty 65-70lbs of questionable coordination, expert intellect, and pure speed, it's been a challenge mentally and physically exhausting my active Border Collie mix. Unfortunately even after his very active dog dad's runs combined with a generous backyard and playdates with his fur friend, he's got more remaining energy in one paw than I have in an entire month. This park is fabulous regardless of if your fur baby is this active, or prefers to relax on a bench undisturbed (although a division for the two play styles is the only thing I'd suggest adding). As others have mentioned, the dog beach, shaded benches, dog runs, trail, doggy showers, and overall cleanliness of the park are impressive. Additionally most dog parents are as trained as their pups, remaining attentive, and polite. Just be sure to watch the water if your pup is overconfident in their swimming abilities.

Love this park! Huge gated park to run your dog(s) whatever size they may be. The dog wash area is…read moreSO appreciated and makes the task of bathing your dog after the park incredibly easy. My dogs went crazy when they saw the dog beach. I had 2 labs that lived for swimming here. It's awesome when you can catch it in quieter days as it's become quite popular. I still love it as it's a great park for you and your fur babies.

Willow Waterhole Conservation Reserve - dog_parks - Updated October 2026

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