Wills Point offers a clear contrast between the town’s history and activities in the surrounding area. Rose Fountain and the brick streets provide tangible historical points of interest; the Wills Point Bluebird Trails, on the other hand, start in the town center, while Lake Tawakoni State Park is nearby. This lets you decide whether your trip should focus on local history, a trail along major roads, or recreation on the water. If you’re staying overnight, factor the day-use restriction into your travel plans and schedule your trail visit during the day.
History at Specific Locations
Rose Fountain is at the intersection of State Highway 47 (North Fourth Street) and North Commerce Street in Wills Point. It is listed as a “Recorded Texas Historic Landmark.” Ike Rose selected it in 1916 as a gift of appreciation to the town. The street names are useful for getting your bearings: State Highway 47 is also known as North Fourth Street; North Commerce Street is the other street at the intersection.
A Texas Historical Commission entry reported damage to the marker in October 2024. If you specifically want to see the marker, check its current condition beforehand.
Wills Point’s brick streets were completed in November 1922. The William Wills double-block cabin is considered the oldest house in the area.
Bluebird Trails and Major Roads
Wills Point has been called the “Bluebird Capital of Texas.” The Wills Point Bluebird Trails carry the same bluebird reference in their name and stretch for miles from the town center along major roads, including FM 47 and U.S. Highway 80. Wills Point is on U.S. Highway 80.
The trails are restricted to day use. Check current access information before visiting.
Woodland, Shoreline, and Water Activities
Nearby, Lake Tawakoni State Park offers opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and paddling. The park includes 376 acres of oak woodland, around 152 hectares, as well as more than five miles of shoreline, or more than eight kilometers.
When choosing an activity, you can distinguish between boating and paddling on the water, swimming in the water, and fishing. Each option offers a different focus, even though they’re all available at the same nearby state park.
The Bluebird Trails and the state park are different kinds of nature attractions: one focuses on trails stretching for miles along roads, while the other offers oak woodland, shoreline, and water activities. This distinction can help you tailor your stay to either the trail routes or the park landscape. Conditions and notices at the state park may change; check them before visiting.
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