It's a big weekend for Texas State Parks.
Last year, the extreme heat and drought took a toll on lakes and campsites in the state. Texas Parks and Wildlife staff said a successful year is needed to bounce back from that devastation.
Lake Ray Roberts is a getaway for Memorial Day Weekend. The Sanders family is camping out at the Isle du Bois Park on the lake. They come each year for the scenery, but, last year, the park and lake looked like a different place.
"This time last year, we had a burn ban, a lot less people, a lot less boats. It seemed like it was really dry. It needed a lot of work," Marcia Sanders said.
Chris True, Lake Ray Roberts State Park Complex Superintendent, said Texas State Parks need big business this weekend after last year's extreme heat and drought.
"We are hoping for a large turn out across the state. It's been well documented how our funding has diminished a little bit over the past year," True said.
True said the drought drove away visitors and damaged parts of the park.
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"So far, this spring, we've removed close to 1,000 of our Oak Trees in the park and still have several hundred to go," True said. "We are really excited the lake is in good shape this year."
It may be hot this weekend, but True said things are looking better the start of this summer season.
