Abilene, Texas

Parks

31

Fort Phantom Hill

Established 1851 to protect frontier from Indians, the post suffered a series of hardships; was abandoned in 1854. Historians say desertions were frequent due to monotony and loneliness. The fort burned shortly after abandonment;

Abilene State Park

621-acre park near Lake Abilene; camping, trailer facilities, picnicking, shelters, swimming pool, rest rooms and showers, hiking and fishing. Large grove of some 4,000

Paramount Theatre

Abilene Zoo

One of five largest in state; animals displayed in modern areas simulating natural habitat. Discovery Center is a "zoo within a zoo," housing comparative habitat displays of invertebrates, fish, reptiles, birds, and small mammals from the Southwestern U.S. and Africa.