Lake Nixon

Lake Nixon was originally opened by Oscar Nixon as a commercial recreation spot in the mid‑1960s.  Lake Nixon initially charged a small fee for entry but barred black visitors from access.  When two women were refused entry in the late 60’s, it led to a 1969 Supreme Court ruling in Daniel v. Paul which was a landmark decision affirming that such places couldn’t dodge the Civil Rights Act by calling themselves private clubs. Following the ruling, the Second Baptist Church purchased the 230‑acre site and embraced it as an integrated space for retreats and youth programs. The Summer Day Camp celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2019 and the Lake Dixon Outdoor Center now provides year-round educational programs, group rentals (for schools, retreats, corporate events), and a peaceful setting for reflection and communal connection. 

Nixon Lake and the surrounding trails are are open when camp is not in session.  There are two trails here including the Lake Nixon Loop (~1.4 mi) and Dialed In Trail (~1.6 mi) which are rated as easy to moderate hikes.  On our visit we hiked the Lake Nixon Loop which circumvents the lake.  After crossing a small dam, the trail follows the lake in a clockwise direction from the outdoor center – then climbs to a viewing platform with wooden seats with views down to the lake.  There are excellent and even summer views to the lake from this platform which you reach after climbing around 100–130 feet.  The trail then descends down to Lake Nixon and follows the shoreline back to the outdoor center where you started.  Keep in mind that this is private property and that the gates to the area may be locked during camp hours.  So visitors should call in advance to check for access to the lake and the surrounding trails.