Hidden away in the wooded hills northwest of Waco lies Meridian State Park, a haven for nature lovers and fishing enthusiasts. The park's 72-acre lake offers fishing in addition to swimming, and no-wake boating. A hiking trail encircling Lake Meridian features limestone outcroppings with fossils, a scenic overlook and aquatic vegetation. Birdwatching is excellent and there is a good chance of seeing the rare Golden-cheeked Warbler.

This park is very wooded with predominantly Ashe juniper and oak, as well as abundant plants and wildflowers. A variety of wildlife and birds includes the endangered Golden-cheeked warbler in the spring. The lake is very popular for bream, crappie, catfish, and largemouth bass.

Meridian State Park, near Meridian in Bosque County, is a 505.4-acre park. A rock and earthen dam was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) on Bee Creek to form the park's 72-acre lake. The land was acquired from private owners in 1933 - 1935 and was opened to the public in 1935.

Tonkawa Indians lived in the surrounding area before the coming of white man; Tawakoni Indians also occupied the area prior to 1841. The Texas-Santa Fe expedition of 1841 passed through Bosque County near the present site of park in Bosque Valley.