Lake Meredith National Park Office Faces Potential Closure Risk

Recently, news came out regarding the possible closing of 34 national park offices nationwide. The Trump administration plans to terminate leases and shut down the offices, according to reports. This is sad news for those of us in the Texas panhandle. Lake Meredith's name got mentioned.

Two National Park Offices Slated To Be Closed In Texas

Charlie Hardin

Reports have been coming out about the closure of National Park Service offices across the nation. These offices are visitor's centers, law enforcement offices, hubs for park services, and even museums. To say they will be missed is an understatement.

In Texas, there are two offices on the list of targeted National Park Service leases. One of them is in San Antonio. It's the San Antonio Missions law enforcement facility. The other is the main office for the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area.

The office at Lake Meredith is listed as the central quarters for resource protection, wildland fire, public safety, access and enjoyment. Sounds like something that would be nice to have around.

What Does This Mean For Lake Meredith?

While the lake itself isn't going anywhere, it's potentially bad news for those employed by the National Park Service there and potentially bad news for the recreation area itself.

I love Lake Meredith. I have spent a massive chunk of time camping, swimming, and fishing there. Every sunrise and sunset I've watched holds a special place in my heart. It's been great for my family and me, not just because we love the lake but also because it provides us with a weekend of entertainment that doesn't cost us much.

Charlie Hardin

I've never had an issue when visiting Lake Meredith, and I suspect that's probably because of the National Park Service staff and office there making sure everything is as it should be. The area is usually clean and well kept, and I've never had an issue at a campsite.

It makes you wonder what will happen. Will some company come in and take over? What does that mean for the free campsites? Would there be an admission fee to go out to the Lake Meredith Recreation Area? Who will take over the upkeep?

Get our free mobile app

It's hard to feel like this is something that should be celebrated. It honestly feels quite the opposite. Lake Meredith is a treasure in the Texas panhandle. From those beautiful sunrises and sunsets, to the legends of Meredith Mike. I would hate to see anything happen to the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area.