Getting Outside in Aubrey
Aubrey has grown fast, but the outdoor options have kept pace — from renovated downtown parks to one of the most rewarding multi-use trail systems in North Texas right on the city’s doorstep. Whether you are looking for a quick afternoon with the kids or a serious weekend on the trail, this guide covers the real spots worth knowing about.
Downtown and Neighborhood Parks
The City of Aubrey Parks and Recreation page is the best place to check current hours and any closures before heading out, since several parks have seen recent improvements.
Veterans Memorial Park at 301 S. Main St. is the heart of Aubrey’s community gathering life. It has been a neighborhood anchor for 30 years and is the home of the annual Peanut Festival, the Summer Music Series, and the Christmas Tree Lighting. Recent renovations added covered shade at the stage, expanded parking, vendor power hookups, and a public restroom — making it far more comfortable for the events it regularly hosts.
Matthews Park in downtown Aubrey completed a 2024 renovation that brought in updated playground equipment, new landscaping, and refreshed finishes. It is a solid option when you want a quick outdoor break without leaving the center of town.
Leslie Park is the go-to spot for anyone looking for active recreation close to home. It has basketball courts, pickleball courts, a soccer field, and a playground, which makes it one of the more versatile parks in the city for families and adults alike.
First Responders Park at Winn Ridge, located in the Winn Ridge neighborhood, was in the final stages of completion as of April 2026. It is a newly added piece of Aubrey’s park system and worth checking on if you live on that side of town.
Ray Roberts Lake State Park: The Big Draw
For residents who want more than a neighborhood park, Ray Roberts Lake State Park is a short drive from Aubrey and offers a genuinely different level of outdoor experience. The park’s official Texas Parks and Wildlife page has current conditions, maps, and fee information.
The Isle du Bois Unit, accessible off FM 455, is the unit closest in character to a traditional lake park. It has more than two miles of concrete hike and bike trails, what many locals consider one of the best beaches in North Texas, and a five-lane boat ramp that keeps wait times reasonable on busy weekends. Day use is $7 per person for ages 13 and up, and Texas State Park Pass holders enter free. If you visit Ray Roberts with any regularity, the annual pass pays for itself quickly.
The Greenbelt: Aubrey’s Long Trail System
The Ray Roberts Lake Greenbelt Corridor is a 20-mile multi-use trail that follows the Elm Fork Branch of the Trinity River from below the Ray Roberts Dam south to the headwaters of Lake Lewisville. It is one of the more impressive trail resources in Denton County and is genuinely accessible from Aubrey. Equestrians have 12 miles available to them, while hikers and cyclists share 10 miles of trail. Three trailheads — at FM 455, FM 428, and US 380 — each include restrooms, parking, and river access for kayaks and canoes.
One important note for 2026: the FM 380 section remains closed due to flood damage from prior years. The hard-surface trail between Highway 428 and Highway 455 is open, so plan your route accordingly and check current conditions before you go.
Trails Worth Knowing by Name
Elm Fork Greenbelt Trail is a 10.7-mile point-to-point route that draws hikers, runners, walkers, equestrians, and nature enthusiasts. It carries a 4.5-star rating across more than 1,094 reviews on AllTrails, which reflects how well-regarded it is among people who actually use it regularly. It is the longest dedicated trail experience near Aubrey and worth the effort for anyone comfortable with a multi-hour outing.
Randy Bell Scenic Trail is a 4.74-kilometer easy loop within the Isle du Bois Unit. It is accessible to most fitness levels and consistently appears on lists of popular summer hiking trails near Aubrey. If you are introducing someone to hiking for the first time or want a relaxed walk with good scenery, this is a reliable choice.
Paddling and Water Access
For those who prefer the water to the trail, the Greenbelt trailheads at FM 455 and FM 428 both offer river access for kayaks and canoes along the Elm Fork Branch of the Trinity River. The Isle du Bois Unit’s boat ramp handles motorized watercraft. Neither requires a separate launch fee beyond standard park entry, though it is always worth confirming current policies on the Texas Parks and Wildlife site before you haul a boat out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best park in Aubrey for kids?
Leslie Park and Matthews Park are both strong options. Leslie Park has the most variety, with basketball courts, pickleball, a soccer field, and a playground. Matthews Park completed a renovation in 2024 with updated playground equipment and is convenient if you are already in the downtown area.
Is there a fee to hike the Ray Roberts Greenbelt near Aubrey?
Yes, day use is $7 per person for ages 13 and older. Texas State Park Pass holders enter free. The Greenbelt Corridor trailheads at FM 455 and FM 428 are the sections currently open as of 2026.
Which section of the Ray Roberts Greenbelt is currently closed?
As of 2026, the FM 380 section of the Greenbelt remains closed due to flood damage. The hard-surface trail between Highway 428 and Highway 455 is open. Check the Texas Parks and Wildlife site for the most current status before your visit.
Where do community events happen in Aubrey’s parks?
Veterans Memorial Park at 301 S. Main St. is the main event venue. It hosts the annual Peanut Festival, the Summer Music Series, and the Christmas Tree Lighting, and its recent renovations have made it better equipped for large gatherings.
