Denton Outdoor Activities

Mud-covered creatures slide down hills, slither over ropes, and plunge headfirst into tangled cargo nets. Around them, the towering walls of an abandoned rock quarry reverberate with the crowd's animalistic growls and cheers. Underneath each coat of mud stands a runner participating in Caveman Crawl's 5K adventure race and mud-run course. Adult racers, separated into timed waves, race against their shoe-clipped timing chips as they bound over, under, and through more than 20 annually changing obstacles. Past challenges include plunging down a 500-foot water slide, leaping over lily pads, and tiptoeing through a quiet library. Smaller racers, aged 4–6 or 7–13, navigate a shorter course with compact versions of the larger obstacles. Along a newly added mountain-bike course, Dual Sport Challenge participants pedal across rocky hills and through swaths of mud and chilly water, all while giving the right of way to commuting mountain goats. The race ends with a massive barbecue where participants celebrate their victory over nature and often receive prizes while refueling with food, drinks, and live music.

Eisenhower Yacht Club (EYC) gathers boat lovers to share their passion for and knowledge of runabouts, cruisers, houseboats, and sailboats. Members of EYC have access to factory-trained mechanics and upkeep services at the Eisenhower Marina, which is nestled in the lush greenery of Eisenhower State Park along Lake Texoma.

Boat-less patrons can visit the harbor and rent a pontoon, which holds up to 10 people for on-water parties, sightseeing, or fishing. To take in the jagged shoreline marked by numerous inlets, visitors can also rent a bicycle and cruise bike paths before stopping at the beach for a picnic or a swim. EYC also sells everything from boats and yachts to small watercraft and boat slips that fit under boat evening gowns.

Nestled on more than 35 bucolic acres, Stone River Farms entices equine enthusiasts of all ages with comprehensive lessons and scenic trail rides. Expert trainers conduct lessons that cover the essentials of horsemanship, including grooming, equipment maintenance, safe riding, and how to distinguish between a unicorn and a horse eating a carrot. Trainers also lead fun trail rides through the woods, giving visitors a chance to bond with their horses and marvel at local flora and fauna.