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Denton County

Carrollton

Attractions and Places To See around Carrollton - Top 16

Best attractions and places to see around Carrollton offer a diverse range of experiences, from historic downtown areas to extensive natural landscapes. This region encompasses both Carrollton, Georgia, known for its historic Adamson Square and the Carrollton GreenBelt, and Carrollton, Texas, featuring its own historic downtown and the Elm Fork Nature Preserve. Visitors can explore cultural institutions, enjoy outdoor recreation, and discover local heritage. The area provides opportunities for hiking, biking, and engaging with both urban and natural environments.

Best attractions and places to see around Carrollton

  • The most popular attractions is Campion Trail, a trail that is a 22-mile paved greenbelt running alongside the Elm Fork Trinity River. This section passes through beautiful wetlands and open fields.
  • Another must-see spot is Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, a forest with 200 acres of hiking trails. It offers 3 miles of paved and 3 miles of unpaved hiking paths, along with a mountain bike trail and facilities.
  • Visitors also love Campion Trail (south end), a multiuse trail winding alongside the Elm Fork Trinity River. When fully complete, this trail will be approximately 22 miles long.
  • Carrollton is known for its extensive trail networks, historic sites, and natural preserves. Visitors can find a variety of attractions, from cultural centers to parks with diverse wildlife.
  • The attractions around Carrollton are appreciated by the komoot community, with 11 upvotes and 4 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: April 30, 2026

Campion Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Campion Trail is a 22-mile long paved greenbelt trail around Irving. This section runs alongside the Elm Fork Trinity River and pass through beautiful wetlands and open fields.

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Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

Highlight • Forest

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is a 200-acre park with hiking trails in the middle of a Texas suburb. Hikers can find three miles of paved hiking trails and three miles of unpaved hiking paths. The park includes a 2.8-mile mountain bike trail, restrooms, a covered pavilion, and a playground. It is a peaceful getaway with periodic wildlife sightings; even bobcats have been recorded in this park.

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Lake Carolyn

Highlight • Lake

Experience the allure of Lake Carolyn and the Mandalay Canals, cherished gems in Las Colinas. The Lake offers stunning views and an easy 2.8-mile hiking loop. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this tranquil haven, a perfect escape for those seeking astonishing vistas in an urban environment.

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Cottonwood Trail

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The Cottonwood Trail is a popular trail in the Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area. It is not a challenging trail and is flat, so it is a trail for everyone. The trail passes through some woodland and reclaimed prairie.

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Bachman Lake

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Bachman Lake, nestled in the heart of the Bachman Lake community in northwest Dallas, spans 205 acres, offering a refreshing retreat for runners.

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Popular around Carrollton

Hiking around Carrollton

Cycling around Carrollton

Road Cycling Routes around Carrollton

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Tips from the Community

mtm05005
June 28, 2025, Campion Trail

The Campion Trail is a 22-mile long paved greenbelt trail around Irving. This section runs alongside the Elm Fork Trinity River and pass through beautiful wetlands and open fields.

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The Campion Trail is a 22-mile long paved greenbelt trail around Irving. This section runs alongside the Elm Fork Trinity River and pass through beautiful wetlands and open fields.

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The Cottonwood Trail is a popular trail in the Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area. It is not a challenging trail and is flat, so it is a trail for everyone. The trail passes through some woodland and reclaimed prairie.

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Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is a 200-acre park with hiking trails in the middle of a Texas suburb. Hikers can find three miles of paved hiking trails and three miles of unpaved hiking paths. The park includes a 2.8-mile mountain bike trail, restrooms, a covered pavilion, and a playground. It is a peaceful getaway with periodic wildlife sightings; even bobcats have been recorded in this park.

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Daniel Krueger
December 28, 2023, Bachman Lake

Bachman Lake is a reservoir located in the Live Field neighborhood of Dallas, Texas. It is a popular spot for fishing, boating and picnicking and features a nice trail that encircles the lake.

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oliviakellis
December 16, 2023, Bachman Lake

Bachman Lake, nestled in the heart of the Bachman Lake community in northwest Dallas, spans 205 acres, offering a refreshing retreat for runners.

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Tyler Sanders
December 1, 2023, Lake Carolyn

The urban lake provides a well-maintained paved trail with continuous water views encircling the lake and winding along the Mandalay Canal. It's an ideal location if you're training for a 5k, as the loop is just under 3 miles.

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oliviakellis
November 26, 2023, Lake Carolyn

Experience the allure of Lake Carolyn and the Mandalay Canals, cherished gems in Las Colinas. The Lake offers stunning views and an easy 2.8-mile hiking loop. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this tranquil haven, a perfect escape for those seeking astonishing vistas in an urban environment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best natural attractions for outdoor activities around Carrollton?

Carrollton offers several natural attractions perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, a 200-acre park with both paved and unpaved hiking trails, a mountain bike trail, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Another excellent option is the Campion Trail, a 22-mile paved greenbelt running alongside the Elm Fork Trinity River, passing through wetlands and open fields. In Carrollton, Georgia, the Carrollton GreenBelt is Georgia's longest closed-loop bike trail, and John Tanner Park offers beaches, camping, fishing, and hiking.

Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities in the Carrollton area?

Yes, Carrollton has many family-friendly options. The Arbor Hills Nature Preserve features a playground and easy trails suitable for families. The Campion Trail (south end) is also a multiuse trail that families can enjoy for walking or cycling. In Carrollton, Texas, Sandy Lake Amusement Park and the Rosemeade Rainforest Aquatic Complex provide fun for all ages. For those in Carrollton, Georgia, McIntosh Reserve Park and Little Tallapoosa Park offer playgrounds and splash pads.

Where can I find historical and cultural sites in Carrollton?

Both Carrollton, Georgia, and Carrollton, Texas, boast rich historical and cultural sites. In Carrollton, Georgia, visit Adamson Square, the historic downtown heart, or the Southeastern Quilt and Textile Museum. The Carrollton Center for the Arts and the West Georgia Textile Heritage Trail also offer cultural insights. In Carrollton, Texas, explore Historic Downtown Carrollton with its preserved buildings and the A.W. Perry Homestead Museum, which provides a glimpse into pioneer life. The Carrollton Plaza Arts Center hosts performances and art exhibitions.

What kind of hiking trails are available around Carrollton?

Carrollton offers a variety of hiking trails. The Arbor Hills Nature Preserve has both paved and unpaved paths, including a 2.8-mile mountain bike trail. For longer, paved options, the Campion Trail is a 22-mile greenbelt ideal for walking and cycling. You can find more hiking opportunities, including easy and moderate routes like the Arbor Hills Loop or The Colony Shoreline Trail, by checking the Hiking around Carrollton guide.

Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in Carrollton?

Yes, several attractions in Carrollton are wheelchair-accessible. The Campion Trail is a paved greenbelt, making it accessible for wheelchairs. Lake Carolyn also features a well-maintained paved trail with continuous water views. In Carrollton, Georgia, the Carrollton GreenBelt is a multi-use trail suitable for various mobility needs.

Can I go cycling or mountain biking near Carrollton attractions?

Absolutely. The Arbor Hills Nature Preserve includes a 2.8-mile mountain bike trail. The Campion Trail is a paved greenbelt perfect for road cycling or casual rides. For more cycling routes, including road cycling and touring options, you can explore the Road Cycling Routes around Carrollton and Cycling around Carrollton guides, which feature routes like the Campion Trail loops.

What are some hidden gems or unique places to visit in Carrollton?

For a unique experience, consider the Buffalo Creek Garden in Carrollton, Georgia, which blends vibrant plant life with local artwork, including Japanese-inspired water features. In Carrollton, Texas, the Carrollton Chinatown Plaza offers a culinary adventure with a variety of Asian restaurants and shops. The Elm Fork Nature Preserve is another hidden gem for quiet hiking and birdwatching, offering a self-contained ecosystem with diverse wildlife.

Are there any parks with lakes or water features in Carrollton?

Yes, Carrollton offers several parks with beautiful water features. Lake Carolyn in Irving, near Carrollton, provides stunning views and a pleasant walking loop. In Carrollton, Georgia, John Tanner Park features a scenic lake with opportunities for fishing and sandy beaches. In Carrollton, Texas, McInnish Park has a fishing lake, and Celestial Park Pond is a spot for birdwatching and reflection.

What is the best time of year to visit Carrollton for outdoor activities?

The best time to visit Carrollton for outdoor activities is typically during the spring and fall months. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring parks. Summers can be hot, especially in Texas, while winters are usually mild but can have occasional cold snaps. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit.

Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting in Carrollton's parks?

Yes, several parks around Carrollton offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is known for periodic wildlife sightings, including bobcats. The Elm Fork Nature Preserve is also ideal for birdwatching and observing diverse wildlife within its self-contained ecosystem. Along the Elm Fork of the Trinity River, areas like Greenbelt Park and the Dimension Tract are home to native flora and various wildlife.

Where can I learn about the textile history of the region?

In Carrollton, Georgia, you can explore the West Georgia Textile Heritage Trail, which offers an educational walking experience through the region's textile manufacturing history. Additionally, the Southeastern Quilt and Textile Museum, housed in a converted cotton warehouse near Adamson Square, showcases historic and new quilts and textiles, providing further insight into the area's textile heritage.

What are some options for easy walking paths in Carrollton?

For easy walking, the paved sections of the Campion Trail and the 2.8-mile loop around Lake Carolyn are excellent choices, offering flat terrain and scenic views. The Cottonwood Trail in the Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area is also a flat, non-challenging path suitable for everyone. In Carrollton, Georgia, the Carrollton GreenBelt provides an extensive multi-use trail for easy walks.

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