Spring is well into bloom and while Cherry Creek and the Old City Lake are both great parks, have you ever stepped foot into the park at Mill Creek Reservoir? Down Arnold Paul Road, you may be surprised to find a city park that offers a completely different experience compared to the other two parks. At Cherry Creek Park you will find a very kid-friendly park, which has an awesome playground and paved walking trail, all connecting to Old City Lake Park, which offers recreation opportunities of all kinds such as baseball, tennis, soccer, and basketball. At Mill Creek Lake Park you will find an experience that satisfies the outdoor enthusiast.

There is a nearly 2.5- mile loop you can take or a shorter half-mile hike on well-kept trails that wander through the woods and along the lake’s edge. It’s a great place to escape, recharge your batteries and experience the great outdoors. Take your kids on a nature walk to identify the different types of trees and plants and be on the lookout for animals such as squirrels, turtles, birds, and even deer.

Speaking of kids, on May 14th the City of Canton, along with the Texas Parks and Wildlife and other sponsors, will host the annual Kids Fish. This year kids will have the opportunity to fish for catfish from 9 am – 1 pm at the Two-Acre Pond. Fishing permits are not required for this event and while you are there, make sure you grab a hot dog for lunch.

While we are on the subject of fishing, Mill Creek Reservoir is truly a hidden gem for anglers. Did you know Mill Creek Reservoir is home to the 11th biggest largemouth bass caught in the State of Texas? It was a 16.77-pound beast caught by Herchel Brickey. Besides bass, this lake has black and white crappie and even monster carp. In fact, there is an annual fishing tournament dedicated to catching these carp. Weighing in at nearly 40 pounds, it’s no wonder it attracts anglers from all over the United States. Fish from the docks or launch your boat out onto this 237-acre lake. Make sure if you are using the boat launch that you get a launch permit from the Canton PD first. Permits can be purchased for $25 per year or $5 per day 24/7 from the Canton PD.

The park at Mill Creek Reservoir is a great place for nature lovers, families, and anglers. Don’t let this beautiful spring pass by without experiencing this awesome slice of nature located in the heart of Canton.