Discover Endless Adventures at Willow Waterhole!

Whether you're looking to unwind with a scenic picnic, snap stunning wildlife photos, or get active on our trails, Willow Waterhole has something for everyone. From peaceful walks along our lakes to kayaking, birdwatching, and fishing, this urban oasis offers a perfect escape into nature. Bring your family, friends, or furry companions and explore the beauty, excitement, and tranquility that awaits. No matter your pace or passion, there's always something to discover, enjoy, and experience at Willow Waterhole!

Walking, Running & Biking

Meandering around the picturesque six lakes, our 10 miles of trails are perfect for those looking to exercise, train, or simply soak in the natural beauty of Willow Waterhole. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or a casual walker, the serene lakeside views and lush landscapes provide an ideal backdrop for outdoor activities.

Designed with paved and crushed-granite paths, these trails cater to walking, biking, jogging, and running. You can challenge yourself on hills, cross footbridges, or enjoy a leisurely ride while taking in the sights of Houston’s native plants and birds. Let your dog run along (on a leash, please), or simply breathe in the fresh air and reconnect with nature.

Exciting improvements are underway, with upgrades and additional trails being added to further enhance your experience around each lake.

Bird Watching- Join the Count

Willow Waterhole is a top destination for bird enthusiasts, with over 225 species identified and a record-breaking 236 species counted in December 2023. Monthly bird surveys, organized by Houston’s Nature Discovery Center and Houston Audubon, take place on the third Saturday of each month (except December) at 7 AM at The Gathering Place. During these 2-hour counts, birders spot between 30 to 50 species, contributing to an annual count of over 250 species.

The Birding Center, near the Arboretum Trail, serves as a chimney swift habitat and tally point for bird sightings. Willow Waterhole’s birding significance has earned it a place on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s "Upper Texas Coast - Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail—Buffalo Bayou Loop" map. Participants often see rare species like bald eagles and ospreys during migration.

Relax & Explore — Picnicking, Photography & Dog Walking

Willow Waterhole is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy nature, whether you’re having a picnic, capturing beautiful moments through your camera, or taking your dog for a scenic walk.

Picnicking

Settle down for a relaxing picnic surrounded by the natural beauty of the greenway. Picnic tables are available near Westbury Lake and Lookout Point, offering shaded areas and picturesque views. Our spacious pavilions are available on a first-come, first-served basis, perfect for family gatherings or group outings.

Please note the following rules for picnicking:

  • Glass containers are not allowed, except for baby bottles, baby food jars, and glass-lined picnic coolers.

  • Alcoholic beverages are not allowed, unless otherwise indicated.

Photography

Bring your camera and capture the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and vibrant flora at Willow Waterhole. The park provides endless opportunities for breathtaking photos, whether you’re snapping a peaceful lake scene or a colorful sunset. The Lookout Point and Wildflower Path are some of the best spots to get that perfect shot.

We’d love to see your photos! Be sure to tag us on Facebook and Instagram and use the hashtag #willowwaterhole to share your moments with our community. You can also submit your photos to us at info@willowwaterhole.org for a chance to be featured in our newsletter.

Dog Walking

Bring your furry friend along for a day of adventure! Willow Waterhole is a dog-friendly park with open spaces and trails ideal for walking your dog. To keep the park clean and enjoyable for all, please ensure your dog stays on a leash, and take advantage of the waste stations conveniently located throughout the greenway.

Willow Waterhole’s lakes offer the perfect setting for both fishing enthusiasts and those who love to spend time on the water.

Fishing — Catch Your Supper

Imagine catching a large catfish just a couple of miles from home. You can try your luck in four of Willow Waterhole’s wet-bottom lakes: Westbury, Willow, Prairie, and Triangle. These lakes hold water year-round, thanks to underground seepage, rain, and bayou overflow. Stocked by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department between 2016 and 2019, the lakes are now home to bass, catfish, and sunfish, with some fish weighing up to 2 pounds. While plenty of carp also call the lakes home, these invasive "bottom feeders" should be removed if caught, as they disrupt the ecosystem.

A fishing pier at Westbury Lake, completed in the spring of 2023, offers a great spot to fish. This ADA-compliant concrete pier extends 46 feet into the lake, with a 90-degree turn and an additional 32 feet. It is enclosed by a custom safety railing and will soon be connected by an ADA-compliant trail from the top of the hill, off Dryad Dr. near the Gazebo parking lot. The pier is available for both fishing and launching non-motorized boats.

Don’t forget to obtain a Texas fishing license if you’re 17 or older.

Boating & Kayaking — Paddle Around

For a peaceful day on the water, bring your canoe, kayak, or paddleboat to Willow Waterhole. The fishing pier at Westbury Lake also serves as a launch point for non-motorized boats. Our grassy banks offer additional easy launch spots, and the calm waters make for a relaxing paddle. Whether you own your boat or rent from one of Houston’s many rental shops, this is the perfect spot to float and enjoy the scenery.

Fishing, Boating & Kayaking