Nestled in the charming, fast-growing Town of Little Elm, Texas, Beard Park preserves the legacy of this lakeside community, blending natural beauty with a spirit of heritage. The park has long stood along the Lewisville Lake shoreline and continues to serve as a backdrop for family fun and community memories. Residents and visitors alike cherish the 220 acres of gathering spaces, historic structures, a nature-themed playground, heritage plantings, and walking trails that invite exploration and a unique connection with nature along the lakefront.

Rooted In History
Beard Park's origins date back to the 1970s, when it was initially located southwest of its current site. The original park served as a central gathering place for Little Elm residents, hosting numerous gatherings for locals like community-wide holiday events where children could visit the historic log cabin and sit on Santa's lap to share their wish list for Christmas morning.

 

Plans For The Present
As Little Elm has evolved, so has Beard Park. The property is now home to public/private partnership ventures including two restaurants and a water sports venue that support the town's thriving Lakefront District. When planning for new improvements to Beard Park in 2013, Little Elm Director of Community Services Chad Hyde prioritized preserving the essence of the original park. A replica Post Office building was constructed as a charming nod to early town history, and the park's original log cabin was meticulously reconstructed using historical craftsmanship, construction materials, and methods by Marquis Restoration and Preservation. It now stands as a historic marker and popular destination for park visitors. These features also served as inspiration for Landscape Architects from Texas-based multi-disciplinary firm Dunaway Associates LLC to create a "Family Tree" design that elegantly showcases Little Elm's commitment to honor its roots, serve its current residents, and look forward to a vibrant future. The branching walkways create an inviting path for visitors and symbolize continued growth and connections. Leaf-shaped stone planters add a unique touch, reinforcing the beautiful natural setting. A nature-themed playground, featuring tree canopy-inspired artificial turf safety surfacing, provides a fun and safe space for children of all ages and abilities to play.

A Park For Everyone
Beard Park's amenities cater to a wide range of interests and activities. The pavilion is a popular spot for parties and gatherings and is a sought-after venue for family celebrations. Fully accessible restroom facilities in close proximity to park amenities ensure that visitors have access to comfort and convenience during their time at the park. Designers also incorporated a legacy planting area filled with pollinator plants and native species selected from original town archive drawings, enhancing the historical stewardship of the park and connecting visitors to Little Elm's roots.
But for most, the destination playground is the highlight. At its heart is a large, nature-themed playground with equipment designed in collaboration with Landscape Structures, Inc. offering a variety of slides, climbers, bridges, swings, and steppers intended to blend with the natural surroundings. Equipment is available for younger age groups (2-5 years) as well as those ages five and older. Each piece is manufactured of durable construction materials including GFRC and recycled plastic patterned after natural materials like logs, trees, or planks with hand-painted touches of animal friends for children to find as they play. The playground safety surfacing is made up of artificial turf patterned after a tree canopy and falling leaves. These design details help create an imaginative space that encourages a celebration of nature and enjoyment for kids of all ages and abilities.

Beyond The Playground
Another highlight of Beard Park is its connection to the Lakefront Trail, which comprises four miles of geo-grid reinforced, decomposed granite. These well-maintained trails wind through scenic landscapes, providing ample opportunities for hiking, jogging, and biking. Along the Lakefront Trail are views of Lewisville Lake and spots for fishing. The park's natural beauty is a significant draw, with lush greenery and tranquil trails, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

A Sense Of Place
Beard Park serves as a vibrant community hub, fostering a sense of connection among residents. While it may not host large-scale events like concerts or festivals, it remains a popular gathering spot for families and individuals looking to enjoy the park's natural beauty and recreational amenities. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful walk, engage in sports, find a spot to fish from, or spend quality time with family, Beard Park has something for everyone. Its dedication to community, sustainability, and recreation makes it a cherished local treasure and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the area.