Williamson County Expands River Ranch County Park

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TEXAS — The Williamson County Commissioners Court this week approved a contract to purchase 350 acres of additional parkland adjacent to the county’s current River Ranch County Park.

The Tuesday approval centers on River Ranch County Park encompassing 1,011 acres located between Liberty Hill and Leander along the South Fork of the San Gabriel River. The additional land is being purchased with some $4.375 million from available voter approved park bonds, officials said.

“Through this once in a lifetime land purchase, Williamson County’s River Ranch County Park is now expanded to include 1,360 acres of rolling hill country,” Commissioner Cynthia Long, whose precinct encompasses the park, said in a prepared statement. “I want to thank the voters of Williamson County for approving parks bonds to purchase the land and thank the McCray family for working with the County to make the purchase a reality. It will be enjoyed for generations to come.”

Added Senior Park Director Randy Bell: “It’s not often that we get the chance to add to an already outstanding park setting, which not only increases acreage, but expands opportunities for outdoor recreation and environmental education. This additional acreage will also provide a buffer from development to help park visitors feel more like they have gone off the grid, leaving civilization behind to surround themselves in a natural environment in this sea of development that is Williamson County."

A groundbreaking ceremony for park improvements took place on Dec. 10, 2018. The first phase of improvements is anticipated to be completed in summer 2020. The master plan for the park includes areas for picnics, camping, hiking, horse paths, and RV camping.