Explore the Great Outdoors in Collin County: There’s Something for Everyone
If you spend any time talking to people around Collin County about what they enjoy doing here you have heard it said over and over that there is a wealth of outdoor activity to be had. On the surface, that can be a bit surprising. There are almost 850,000 people living in the cities of Plano, Frisco, McKinney, and Allen; if those four municipalities were one city, it would be the 17th largest in the U.S., ahead of places like San Francisco, Seattle, and Denver. A population of that magnitude makes most people think of a strictly urban landscape, where trees almost become art pieces rather than a natural part of the topography. In truth, Collin County boasts a wealth of trails, parks, lakes, and unique recreational activities, and with thousands of undeveloped acres there is always a way to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, a family looking for weekend adventures, or someone seeking a peaceful moment by the water, Collin County offers outdoor experiences for everyone. We’ve included a few of our favorites and look forward to hearing about yours.
1. Biking in Collin County: From Paved Paths to Mountain Trails
Collin County has become a haven for cyclists of all types, whether you're a road cyclist looking for scenic routes or a mountain biker seeking thrilling trails. Eric White, manager of Cadence Cyclery in McKinney, points out that while the area might not have many dedicated bike lanes like you might see in large cities, the “bike-ability” of Collin County is on the rise, with plenty of paths for families and serious riders alike.
“There are designated bike paths around Collin County and you actually can navigate through cities easily on these roads,” White says. “Beyond that, places like Oak Point Nature Preserve offer excellent paved bike paths, and Erwin Park in McKinney is fantastic for mountain biking. Frisco Northwest Community Park has over 5 miles of great trails.”
Erwin Park is a standout for off-road cyclists. The park features an 8-mile loop designed for mountain bikers, complete with jumps and technical sections that cater to all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider, you’ll find something to love.
Arbor Hills Nature Preserve in Plano offers both paved paths and rugged dirt trails, making it a great option for families or more experienced riders looking for a challenge. At Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve, you can cycle along a scenic 3.5-mile paved trail that connects to Plano’s larger trail system, perfect for those seeking a longer, more relaxing ride.
White encourages anyone looking to hop on a bike to check out the resources at www.cadencecyclery.com/ to find great places to ride, whether you are a seasoned rider or you and your family just want to enjoy the sunshine from two wheels. “There are group rides every night of the week, except for maybe Fridays in the fall,” White laughs, “I’m pretty sure high school football Fridays are sacred, but any other time there is someone who will go ride with you.” Cadence Cyclery can not only outfit you with the newest and coolest road bikes, mountain bikes and even E-Bikes, they also offer repair and maintenance to get your dusty old two wheeler in the garage back out on the trails.
2. Hiking: Discover Nature’s Beauty on Foot
If hiking is more your speed, Collin County has plenty of trails that showcase the area’s natural beauty. Again, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is one of the most popular spots for hiking, offering a mix of paved and unpaved trails that wind through meadows, wooded areas, and hills. Oak Point Park provides miles of scenic walking trails that take you through woodlands, along lakes, and even through wildlife habitats. For those seeking a more peaceful hiking experience, Conservation Trail at Brockdale Park near Lake Lavon offers sweeping views of the lake and opportunities for bird watching and photography.
3. Fishing and Boating: A Day on the Water
Collin County's lakes are perfect for those who enjoy fishing, boating, or simply relaxing by the water. Lake Lavon, one of the area's largest lakes, offers excellent opportunities for both casual and serious anglers. Stocked with largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish, Lake Lavon is a prime fishing destination.
In addition to fishing, the lake provides a variety of water activities. Visitors can rent boats or paddleboards to explore the calm waters, or take advantage of the parks surrounding the lake, which offer ideal spots for picnics, camping, and more.
At Towne Lake Recreation Area in McKinney, you can relax with some fishing before taking a scenic stroll around the lake or use rent a kayak from the self serve kiosk enjoy a leisurely day on the water.
4. Disc Golf: Fun for All Skill Levels
Disc golf is a growing sport in Collin County, and the area boasts some excellent courses. Towne Lake Disc Golf Course in McKinney features 18 holes set in a beautiful park environment, offering plenty of variety for players of all skill levels.
For a more traditional disc golf experience, Shawnee Park Disc Golf Course in Plano provides a well-maintained 18-hole course that’s great for both casual players and more serious competitors. Slayter Park in Anna gets in on the disc golf action with its own 18 holes.
5. Pickleball: The Fastest-Growing Sport in Collin County
Pickleball has taken Collin County by storm, and there are several great places to play this fast-paced, accessible sport. High Point Park Tennis Center in Plano offers public pickleball courts and regular clinics for beginners. The Courts at Gabe Nesbitt Park in McKinney are another top destination for pickleball enthusiasts, with well-maintained courts perfect for casual or competitive play.
If you’re looking to try your hand at pickleball, the Frisco Athletic Center also provides outdoor pickleball courts and regular sessions for players of all levels.
6. Unique Sports: Cricket, Paddleboarding, and More
For those looking to explore less conventional sports, Collin County offers a range of options. Cricket clubs around the area bring cricket enthusiasts together to play matches in a growing sport that’s gaining popularity in the area. With organized leagues and regular matches, it’s a great way to experience something new.
Heritiage Hill Stables in Princeton offers trail rides for a genuine Texas experience on horseback for riders ages 7 and up. If you want the blood to pump a little faster, Collin County Paintball in Celina can handle that for anyone over the age of 10.
If you prefer water-based activities, paddleboarding on Lake Lavon is a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors. Several parks around the lake offer rental options, making it easy to get started even if you’re a beginner.
7. Geocaching and the Hidden Mouse Doors in Downtown McKinney
For an activity that combines technology with outdoor exploration, try geocaching in Collin County. This modern-day treasure hunt uses GPS coordinates to lead you to hidden caches scattered throughout parks and trails. It's a fun way to explore new places while enjoying some outdoor adventure.
If sweat isn’t really your thing, visit downtown McKinney and keep an eye out for the hidden mouse doors. These tiny, whimsical doors are scattered throughout the historic district, offering a fun scavenger hunt for families or anyone looking to discover a bit of magic in the city.
Final Thoughts
Spending time outdoors is not just good for your body—it’s essential for your mental health as well. Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and paddleboarding help reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, and improve overall mood. The simple act of being in nature promotes mindfulness and allows you to disconnect from the pressures of daily life. Outdoor exercise, such as walking or cycling, increases the production of endorphins—your body’s natural mood elevators. These activities also improve focus, enhance creativity, and can lead to better sleep. “Just get out there,” Eric White encourages. “Hop on a bike, go for a walk, just go be part of the community. The blood pumps, the endorphins flow, you might even catch yourself singing, but I promise you’ll be in a better mood. Sure, for 90 days out of the year we might sweat more than other places, but this is a community that can easily find a lot of happiness outside.” With so many beautiful outdoor spaces in Collin County, enjoying a little sunshine can be a key component of maintaining mental well-being.
Cooler days and crisp evenings are coming, so grab your gear, someone you love, and get outside!