Friday, May 3, 2024
Mother Neff State Park, located in the southeastern portion of Coryell County, will be one of the 31 state parks in the direct path experiencing the total solar eclipse on April 8th.
According to Mother Neff State Park Superintendent, Melissa Chadwick, no special events will be held at the park on the day of the total eclipse, although she stated that all campsites at the park have been reserved for several months. “Not as much for overnight rentals,” she said.
Chadwick reported that approximately 15 campsites had been previously rented with a few that were set aside for park staff and emergency vehicles. She also mentioned that additional park security would be needed on the day of the eclipse.
According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, it is recommended to head to your designated park early to allow for heavy traffic. It is also recommended to fuel up your vehicle before coming to the park in case of traffic delays.
Chadwick stated that the “day permits” to the park became available to the public on March 8th at 8 a.m., and that in less than an hour, the day permits were sold out, which numbered 70 in total.
Mother Neff Park has approximately 90 parking places available, then again, with some set aside for staff and law enforcement officers.
“We expect to be very busy on April 8th and for several days prior to the eclipse. Additional staff, volunteers, and the first responders will be on hand to assist with the larger-than-normal visitation we are anticipating,” Chadwick said.
Regarding food and water, she said, “We have asked our vending machine vendors to have items fully stocked, and there may be other items available for donations that would benefit the Mother Neff State Park Association.”
“We recommend that folks check availability before heading out to any park on that day as capacity limits may be reached,” she said. Texas Parks and Wildlife officials reminded park visitors that, following the eclipse, you may not be able to leave quickly, so be sure to stock up on food and drinks in case your departure is delayed by traffic.
“We are certainly looking forward to the eclipse and creating stellar memories with our visitors that will last a lifetime,” Chadwick said.
For more information about Mother Neff State Park, please call 254-853-2389.
