Revisiting Cameron Park: A Walk Down Memory Lane
Memories have a curious way of lingering, often bringing the most unexpected flashes from the past to the forefront of our minds. Years ago, as a young man, I had the privilege of attending Baylor University in Waco, Texas. This was a Waco untouched by the glamour of Chip and Joanna, a simpler, more genuine Waco that resonated deeply with me. But delving into that era would require its own narration.
One vivid memory from my Baylor days was Cameron Park. Located a stone’s throw from the university, this expansive natural space was the go-to for fraternities and sororities, a backdrop for mixers, parties, or a simple frisbee toss. However, back in the day, I never ventured onto its hiking trails, possibly deterred by local whispers warning of the park’s potential dangers, especially after dark.
Fast forward to the present, with a newfound passion for hiking and an afternoon to spare, I decided to traverse the trails of Cameron Park. The experience was oddly nostalgic, a blend of rediscovering old spots and exploring previously unseen parts of the park. I undertook a point-to-point hike, clocking in at just under 8 miles with 900 feet of elevation gain over three hours. The rains had ensured I was drenched for a good part of the journey, a blessing in disguise as it kept the heat at bay. That was until the end, when the prospect of wetting the car’s interior raised a few eyebrows.
The solitude of the hike added to its charm. The trails were desolate, and even the park’s main areas had but a few visitors. I embarked on my journey with the challenging Jacob’s ladder stairs, a steep ascent from the parking lot to the trailhead. Having tackled that, the subsequent paths felt relatively more comfortable, although the rain had turned many into slippery, muddy tracks. But, unlike a slippery mishap on a hike in Waiheke Island, New Zealand, I managed to keep my balance throughout.
In reflection, Cameron Park offered not just a hike, but a journey into the past, blending old memories with new experiences, reminding me of the beauty of both change and constancy.
