Tucker Lake is the centerpiece of Palo Pinto Mountains State Park.
 

I’m standing on a ridge at what will become Texas’s next state park, almost exactly halfway between Fort Worth and Abilene. At this rocky, brush-covered overlook, a creek twists like a curled strip of lime peel far below. Oak trees bow over the ribbon of green, while thick prairie grasses, juniper, and mesquite lend an almost junglelike feel to the rolling terrain. I can hear the tractors that are grading new park roads rumbling in the distance, but when I look out, all I see is untouched land.I can picture myself paddling a kayak down there. After a few hours of exploration, I’d drag my boat ashore. Then I’d scamper up the road to this future campsite, where I’d grab a cold drink and enjoy…