Lake Mineral Wells State Park

rock climbing in mineral wells

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Scenic Climbing Adventures Just West of Fort Worth

Located just an hour west of Fort Worth, Lake Mineral Wells State Park offers climbers a distinctive adventure on its sandstone conglomerate formations. The park's renowned Penitentiary Hollow features cliffs ranging from 20 to 40 feet, providing an ideal setting for both beginners and intermediate climbers to develop their skills in a natural environment. The shaded crags make it a comfortable destination even during the warmer months, and the nearby lake offers a refreshing retreat after a day of climbing. 

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A man is climbing up a rock wall in the woods.

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Perfect for Beginners & Intermediate Climbers

With 20-40 foot sandstone cliffs, Penitentiary Hollow offers an ideal setting to learn and progress in a natural, shaded environment.

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Exclusive Guided Climbing Access

As the approved guide service for Lake Mineral Wells, Rock-About provides expert instruction without the need for separate climbing reservations.

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A Complete Outdoor Experience

After climbing, cool off in Lake Mineral Wells, explore scenic hiking trails, or enjoy a peaceful picnic by the water.

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Just an Hour from Fort Worth

Conveniently located near the city, this hidden gem is the perfect day trip for families, beginners, and those looking for an approachable outdoor climbing adventure.

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Courses offered at Lake Mineral Wells State Park


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Frequently Asked Questions


  • Is Lake Mineral Wells a good place for first-time climbers?

    Yes! Penitentiary Hollow offers shorter, beginner-friendly routes with solid handholds, making it a perfect spot for new climbers to learn in a fun, supportive environment.

  • Do I need a separate climbing permit to climb at Lake Mineral Wells?

    No! When you book a guided tour with Rock-About, your climbing access is included, and you do not need a separate permit. However, the park does charge a $7 per person day-use fee for ages 13 and up.

  • What should I bring for a climbing tour at Lake Mineral Wells?

    Wear comfortable outdoor clothing and closed-toe shoes, and bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. We provide all climbing gear, so you just need to show up ready to climb!

  • What else can I do at Lake Mineral Wells after climbing?

    The park offers hiking, fishing, kayaking, and swimming, making it a great place to spend a full day outdoors with family or friends.

Join Our Climbing Courses at Lake Mineral Wells


At Rock-About Climbing Adventures, we are proud to be the approved guide service for Lake Mineral Wells State Park. We offer tailored courses designed to help climbers of all levels enhance their abilities. Our Beginner Climbing Course introduces newcomers to the fundamentals of rock climbing, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. All our lead instructors are certified as AMGA Single Pitch Instructors, and our owner is an AMGA Certified Rock Guide and SPI Provider, ensuring you receive top-tier guidance. 


When you book with us, there's no need to make a separate reservation to access the climbing areas. While a day-use fee of $7 per person over the age of 12 applies, the climbing fee is included in your booking with us. Join us at Lake Mineral Wells State Park to experience the thrill of climbing in one of Texas's most intriguing natural settings.

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January 29, 2025
Rock climbing is a thrilling and challenging activity that offers many physical and mental benefits. However, it is also a sport that can be dangerous if proper safety measures are not taken. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced climber , it is important to prioritize safety to avoid accidents and injuries. In this article, we will share 5 tips to keep safe while rock climbing. Use Proper Equipment Using proper equipment is essential to ensure a safe and successful climbing experience. Before you start climbing, make sure that all your equipment, including your rope, harness, and carabiners, are in good condition and properly fastened. Always double-check your knots and make sure that they are secure before you start climbing. It is also important to wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the climbing environment. If you are climbing outdoors, dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction. If you are climbing indoors, wear comfortable and breathable clothing that allows for a full range of motion. Climb With A Partner Climbing with a partner is a crucial safety measure that should never be overlooked. Your climbing partner can help you spot potential hazards, provide support and encouragement, and ensure that your gear is properly adjusted and secured. They can also act as your belayer, which means they will control your rope to keep you safe in case of a fall. It is important to communicate clearly with your climbing partner and establish a set of hand signals to communicate non-verbally. Make sure that you trust your partner and that they have the necessary skills and experience to keep you safe. Take A Lesson Or Hire A Guide If you are new to rock climbing, it is highly recommended that you take a lesson or hire a guide to learn the proper techniques and safety protocols. Climbing lessons and guided climbs will teach you the fundamentals of rock climbing, including proper rope management, belaying, and knot tying. They will also teach you how to read the terrain and assess potential hazards. Working with a professional instructor or guide will ensure that you are learning from someone with experience and knowledge. They can also provide valuable feedback and help you improve your technique and skills. Assess The Terrain And Weather Conditions Before you start climbing, it is important to assess the terrain and weather conditions to determine if it is safe to climb. If you are climbing outdoors , pay attention to the weather forecast and check for potential hazards such as loose rock or unstable terrain. Make sure that you are familiar with the climbing area and that you have the necessary equipment and skills to tackle the climb. If you are climbing indoors , make sure that the facility has proper safety measures in place, such as padded flooring and safety mats. Make sure that the climbing walls are properly maintained and that the routes are appropriate for your skill level. Listen To Your Body Rock climbing can be physically demanding, so it is important to listen to your body and take breaks as needed. Make sure that you are properly hydrated and well-rested before you start climbing. If you feel fatigued or lightheaded, take a break and rest until you feel ready to continue. It is also important to warm up properly before you start climbing to prevent muscle strains or injuries. Take the time to stretch and do some light cardio exercises to get your blood flowing and loosen up your muscles. Learn to Climb with Rock-About Climbing Adventures Rock-About is the go-to rock climbing outfit for anyone in the Central Texas area ! With courses for all levels of experience, from beginner to experienced climber, boys and girls scouts , and even groups , there is something for everyone. Not only does Rock-About offer safe and well-organized classes that ensure our clients’ safety at all times, we also provide a more educational experience by teaching climbers about the physical geography of different climbing locations. This opportunity sets Rock-About apart from any other climbing outfit in the area and makes it a great choice for individuals or organizations looking to get their climb on!