7. B
uffalo Springs Lake - a lake and park site home to numerous camp site, picnic grounds, performance
venues, fishing and boat docks, and stage pavilions - rivals in assets any of the best parks in the Great Plains
area. As it nears its sixtieth anniversary as a park, Buffalo Springs Lake remains one of Lubbock’s greatest
treasures. It attracts tourists from all over Texas and the United States, while also serving the nearby Lubbock area.
The wealth of opportunity at Buffalo Springs is impressive. Currently, activities at the lake range from triathlons, to hot
air balloon festivals, to fireworks shows for special events such as 4th of July celebration. Its impressive number of
visitors, numerous festivals and exhibitions, and aquatic events are just some of the elements that make Buffalo Springs
unlike other parks in the Great Plains.
Despite its myriad virtues, Buffalo Springs Lake is not reaching its potential. Lack of RV hook prevents it from reaching
its potential visitor capacity, the absence of vegetation within many of the campgrounds damages its image as a
lush park, and the presence of discarded trash and pollution in the lake is harmful to visitors and wildlife. Managing the
lake in a manner such that the wealth of events supports daily attendance - rather than detract from it - is crucial to
the life of Buffalo Springs Lake.
Introduction to Buffalo Springs Lake
The Master Plan Vision 5
9. T
he Buffalo Springs Lake Comprehensive Development Plan serves as a guide to the development of Buffalo
Springs Lake over the next several years. The results of this plan have evolved through a uniquely collabora-
tive process among community leaders and students of Texas Tech University Architecture College, those
with a lifetime of experience with Buffalo Springs and those who bring a fresh perspective, preservationists and camp-
ing enthusiasts. It reflects the interests of those who visit the Lake and those who work in the Lake. The plan embodies
the spirit of Buffalo Springs Lake throughout its history while keeping a view towards its future. It specifies both near and
long range changes to the lake and ties them together within an overall vision. The Buffalo Springs Lake Comprehen-
sive Development plan will allow the shapers of the Lake to evaluate future development proposals and permit
growth in the lake in a sensitive manner.
Master Plan Purpose
The Master Plan Vision 7
10. T
he region surrounding Buffalo Springs Lake was first settled by nomadic Native American hunters around 1200 A.D. The
written history of the area started in the 16th century when the Spanish exploders first traveled the land. The Spaniards
named the area Casas Amarillas, ‘the Yellowhouse’, after the pueblos constructed of yellow rock that overlooked the
lakes up and down the canyon. Early American exploders named river the river flowing through the canyon the Brazos, after the
Spanish name Los Brazos de Dios, ‘The Arms of God’.
In 1956, a 1.8 million dollar bond issue was initiated to build a dam on the Brazos. The dam was completed in 1960, forming what is
known as Buffalo Springs Lake. The lake and surrounding area comprised 1223 acres. Buffalo Springs is governed by the Lubbock
City Water Control and Improvement District 1. The lake is a popular water-based recreation area for the Lubbock region. There are
approximately 230 houses around the lake owned by people leasing land from the water district.
The Water District Board had expressed a concern for the environmental qualities of the lake and commitment toward the improve-
ment of the recreational facilities. The need for recreational resources to boost admission attendance is one basis for the develop-
ment of a Master Plan for Buffalo Springs Lake.
8
Buffalo Springs Lake | Comprehensive Development Plan
History of Buffalo Springs
11. The Master Plan Vision 9
Buffalo Springs Lake Topographical Map, 1965
12. W
hile Buffalo Springs Lake is successful in many ways, the General Manager of Buffalo Springs Lake consulted students of Texas Tech University to
develop a long term plan to increase the vitality of the lake on a year-round basis. This Buffalo Springs Lake Comprehensive Development Plan
builds a vision for Buffalo Springs Lake as an unparalleled campgrounds filled with first class institutions within 1223 acres of park and lake space
that is located less than five miles from the city of Lubbock. The Plan creates a framework for the steps needed to reach that vision.
Components of the Buffalo Springs Lake include a physical plan, site programming, and a business strategy plan. The plan identifies three distinct projects
in the lake: the Lower Lake, the Upper Lake, and the ATV Trails. The team developed a phasing and implementation strategy for each project. A sustainable
increase in green coverage, expansion of RV hookups, tree planting program, and improvements to nature trails, boat and fishing dock, and ATV trails as
well as maintenance to the Upper Lake. These elements will allow Buffalo Springs Lake to reach its potential as a first class park.
The Buffalo Springs Comprehensive Development Plan established four major goals that will lead Buffalo Springs’ development. These goals create a cohe-
sive set of objectives that can apply to all aspects of Buffalo Springs Lake. At their most broad, these objectives communicate over arching ideas about
the essence of Buffalo Springs Lake. At their most specific, these goals guide programming and marketing efforts as Buffalo Springs Lake presents a new
face to the world. The goals are:
Create a signature park and campgrounds.
Support the facilities of Buffalo Springs while activating the lake with new programs and uses.
Maintain the image and vitality of Buffalo Springs.
Enhance connectivity with the visitors and the greater community.
Buffalo Springs Lake | Comprehensive Development Plan
Vision
10
13. Four Objectives for Buffalo Springs:
Create a signature park and campgrounds.
Support the facilities of Buffalo Springs while activating the lake with new
programs and uses.
Maintain the image and vitality of Buffalo Springs.
Enhance connectivity visitors and the greater community.
The Master Plan Vision 11
16. T
he Buffalo Springs Comprehensive Development Team began this study with an intensive site analysis. This analysis was conducted
on many levels throughout the life of the study. This chapter relates the key pieces of this analysis and draws conclusions from them.
These conclusions are then applied in developing and guiding the direction of the master plan. The major categories investigated
were the physical site analysis, the distribution of park space, and current park conditions. Each of these categories has provided unique and
important information to the understanding of the functioning of Buffalo Springs Lake as a whole. With a thorough picture of each piece of
Buffalo Springs - from its shade tree coverage to its distribution of picnic areas - the team was able to develop a comprehensive approach
and guide the future of the park.
Overview
Buffalo Springs Lake | Comprehensive Development Plan
14
17. park space
private space
The Buffalo Springs area is divided up between park
space and lake side residents. There are approxi-
mately 230 houses in Buffalo Springs that are being
leased from the Water District. Many of these homes
are along the water edge and have their own privet
docks. The majority of these residences are located
on the southeast side of the Upper Lake and north
Lower Lake.
Real Estate
Analysis 15
Park vs. Private Space
18. The majority of the trees in Buffalo Springs lake are
Chinese Elm. They are most prevalent around the
western part of the upper lake. These trees provide
shade for the campsite areas during the summer
and during the winter, when their leaves fall, allow
sun light to warm the grounds.
The trees that are planted are placed mostly along
the paved road that circles the lake. Areas adjacent
to the water are open.
Vegetation
Buffalo Springs Lake | Comprehensive Development Plan
16
Vegetation - Trees
19. Lubbock is located on the plateau region of Texas
known as the South Planes. The general elevation is
approximately 3250 ft. above sea level with little to no
significant terrain features. Because of the scarce
terrain features there is little effect on wind flow.
Prolonged winds between 5 and 25 mph exist
year-round. Winds are often accompanied by dust in
the form of dust storms and usually occur in the
summer months. The area of Lubbock is located
between the desert region to the west and humid
climates to the east. The resulting climate is classified
as semi-arid. The summers are generally hot and dry
while the winters are usually mild.
The average mean temperature of June, July, and
August, the hottest months of the year, is 78° Fahren-
heit with record highs of above 100°. For December,
January, and February, the coldest months, the
average mean temperature is 39°. The normal
average annual perspiration is 19 inches, the majority
of which occur in the summer months in the form of
thunder storms.
The climate conditions provide for a relative long
recreation season for the Buffalo Springs Lake site.
Many lake activities can be enjoyed from early spring
to late fall, while other activities, such as fishing, can
be enjoyed year-round.
The lake itself is divided in half by a partial land bridge
near the center of the lake. The upper lake is located
on the west side while the lower lake is located on the
east side. The majority of the facilities offered by
Buffalo Springs Lake is located within the upper
portion of the lake. These include picnic and camping
areas, public docks and boat slips, and fishing piers.
The prominent fish species present in the lake include
the largemouth bass, striped bass, white crappie,
channel and flathead catfish, and the sunfish. The
average depth of water is 15 feet with a maximum
depth of 52 feet. Over 240 surface acres of water for
recreational activates such as fishing and boating are
available within the site.
Climate Conditions Lake Conditions
Trees
The site is home to a number of significant trees. The
majority of the trees at Buffalo Springs Lake are
Chinese Elm. A small number of evergreen trees exist
such as scrubby junipers and a few small deciduous
tree. They concentrate around the western part of the
lake where they shade the campsites and the picnic
tables, and next to the dam. The eastern part of the
lake has very few trees
Grass
Ground coverage is made up of mainly native grass,
this includes Blue Stem, Big Blue Stem, Side Oats
Grama, Inland Salt grass, and Broomweed. The
dominant ground cover is Buffalo Grass which is
mowed in some recreation areas. Along the shoreline,
especially on the upper lake, there is a significant
amount of Bermuda.
Aquatic Plants
The majority of plant life in the lake are Cattails which
show rapid annual growth particularly in the shallow
areas at the west end of the upper lake.
Vegetation Conditions
Analysis 17
20. camping space
picnic space
recreation/event space
The activities of Buffalo Springs Lake Park is divided
up into three distinct spaces. The first space are the
camping grounds. These are divided between both
tent and RV camping. The second space is desig-
nated as picnic grounds. Picnicking is the most
popular recreational activity at Buffalo Springs Lake.
The final park space is devoted to outdoor recre-
ation and special events. These activities include
sand beaches, an amphitheater, nature trails, and
ATV trails.
Park Space
Park Spaces
Buffalo Springs Lake | Comprehensive Development Plan
18
21. Buffalo Springs Lake offers a variety of facilities for the
purposes of camping, fishing, and picnicking. The list
of existing facilities at Buffalo Springs are as followed:
Public Fishing Docks – 4
Crappie House – 1
Boat Launch Sites – 3
Marina with Boat Slips – 1
Total Camping Areas – 3
Total RV Campgrounds – 2
Total RV Hookups – 160
Restroom and Shower Buildings – 3
Picnic Areas – 24
Children’s Playgrounds – 2
Pavilions – 4
Party House with pier and fishing dock
In addition to these items, Buffalo Springs Lake also
provides amenities to facilitate recreational activates.
These include:
Hiking Trails
ATV Trails
Spillway Nature Trails
Amphitheater
2 Sand Beaches
240+ surface acres for fishing and boating
Lake Facilities
Analysis 19
Park Facilities
23. Erosion
Buffalo Springs Lake
Picnic Area
Campgrounds
ATV Trails
Stage Pavilion
23
24
26
28
30
32
T
he Park Condition Analysis examines the current conditions of selected structures and locations within Buffalo
Springs Lake. This includes assessments and observations of the individual areas and any issues that may be
present. Further observations are also made on a number of conditions that need to be addressed. Initial recom-
mendations are then made with suggestions on how these issues may be remedied. The opinions and comments provided
in this report are based on field observation.
Park Conditions
21Analysis
24. Buffalo Springs Lake | Comprehensive Development Plan
22
1. Near Camp Buffalo
3. Campgrounds
2. Road leading to ATV Trail
25. Buffalo Springs Lake has a major erosion problems that could lead to a wide range of problems resulting in negative consequences for the park. There are several eroded areas in the
park, the areas along the water edge and escarpment are among the most heavily affected. Besides diminishing the appearance of the lake, loss of soil by erosion lessens the quality of
the park and recreational facilities. There is also the danger that the eroded escarpment will weakened to the point of no longer being strong enough to support the structures on top of
it. All of which could have a negative impact on the park’s recreational potential.
The primary reason for erosion in Buffalo Springs Lake is the lack of vegetation and ground coverage. Due to the dry climate, frequent visitors, and vehicles driving on the ground, the
coverage of vegetation is poor. This lack of vegetation has resulted in soil erosion. Soil erosion in BSL is also caused by water runoff from rain. Because of the steep terrain of the canyon
walls, rain water is redirected and funneled into the site. The resulting water erosion creates numerous crevices that cut through and erode the top layer of soil.
Currently there are programs set in place at Buffalo Springs Lake to combat the effects erosion. These programs include the instillation of retaining walls and the maintaining of vegetation
and ground coverage on leased property. These methods control the effects of soil erosion however the cause of the problem remains at issue. Many locations, such as campsites and
picnic areas, are subject to both heavy vehicle and pedestrian traffic. This damages the ground vegetation and prevents any growth. The result is the soil in the affected areas becoming
loose and dusty.
Vegetation is the most effective means of preventing erosion. The root system of grasses act to anchor the top soil, lessening the effects of the wind and rain. Similarly, tree roots reach
deep into the ground to stabilize large volumes of soil radiating outwards from the center. Much of the areas used for recreation need to be re-vegetated to control erosion in the
affected areas of the park.
When establishing a program for planting, specifications found in The Texas Highway Department Standard Specification for Construction of Highways, Streets, and Bridges should be used
as a guide. This document gives specifications on planting and fertilizing for erosion control. Grasses suggested for this area, by the Highway Department, include Green Sprangletop,
Sideoats Grama, Bermuda Grass, and Buffalo Grass. For BSL, it is recommended that Bermuda Grass be used in areas subject to heavy foot traffic, such as the picnic and campgrounds.
In order to prevent future degradation of ground coverage, it is recommended that efforts be put in place to reduce vehicle traffic on the ground. Designated parking can reduce
vehicle presence in the campgrounds and allow for vegetation to mature.
Planting of trees can also be used as they act to both control soil erosion and provide shade. Young trees could be planted and allowed to grow into maturity as older trees start to
decline. Suggested trees for planting include Hackberry, Red Oak, Pistacio, Honey Locust, Pecan, Russian Olive, and Kettekeri Juniper. The species recommended are considered to be
long lived, insect and disease resistant, and relatively drought tolerant and have done well in this region. It is suggested that the trees be planted among the existing elms so that there
will be a continuation of shade trees. Trees should be planted around the maintenance areas to screen it from the roadway. When re-vegetating public areas such as camping and
picnic grounds, it is recommended that it be phased. One area at a time should be closed and planted so that new vegetation will not be damage before it has a chance to become
established.
Erosion
Recommendations
Analysis 23
26. Buffalo Springs Lake is in poor condition and suffers from a number of issues and problems in relation to the lake itself. These issues can be linked to: erosion as the result of flooding, and
contamination caused by pollution. Flooding has eroded away many of the recreational areas that are adjacent to the water and discarded trash is commonly seen along the shore
lines and water edge. As the water line encroaches inland, valuable land is lost and the resulting drop-off pose a hazard for park visitors. In addition the presence of discarded trash and
contaminating pollution in the lake harming the local wildlife and can pose health concerns to visitors.
The issue of erosion has already been discussed previously in this report. As it pertains to the lake, this issue is the result of annual rain that lead to flooding. Water washes away sediment
that is then either cared off or settles to the bottom of the lake. During flooding, high water levels erode the shore line of the lake that then, during droughts when the water level lowers,
are revealed as drop-offs. Drop-offs leading into the lake can be several feet in height. The areas that are most affected by this are concentrated within the Upper Lake area.
Pollution and contaminants have affected the entirety of the lake. Water quality has affected not only the image of the Lake but also the health and safety of the wildlife, residents, and
visitors. Environmental contamination in both the Upper and Lower Lake has been having negative consequences and must be redeemed.
Water erosion along the Lake can be controlled with the use of retaining walls along the waters edge. A combination of driven wood piles and stone masonry could be used in the
construction of these retaining walls. Other suggestions for erosion control include the panting of vegetation within the affected areas. Deep root vegetation such as trees will serve to
anchor the soil. Grass can also be used to control surface erosion and prevent the loss of top soil.
As for recommendation for the pollution and contaminations, dredging is the part of the ultimate solution to restoring the lake and improving its water quality and ecological functionality.
Hydraulic dredging is significantly cheaper than mechanical dredging. Hydraulic dredging works by using water to pump the sediments to the shore which is different than mechanical
dredging where the material is scooped out with large equipment and hauled it to shore on a barge. Hydraulic dredging also has the advantage of being quieter and less polluting
because of the electrical equipment it uses.
Lake Condition
Recommendations
Buffalo Springs Lake | Comprehensive Development Plan
24
27. 1. Picnic area adjacent to water
3. Example of Lake pollution
2. Example of existing erosion control
Analysis 25
28. 1.) As is prevalent in much of the park, the picnic area is subject to soil loss due to
water erosion. Because the picnic areas are located adjacent to the lake, the edge of
these locations are often steep drop-offs of loose soil leading into the water.
2.) Permanent picnic tables and shade structures are installed in the picnic
areas, however these tables are worn and covered in graffiti. Since picnicking is one of
the most popular outdoor recreational activities, the image of these conditions is
damaging to the park. Charcoal grills also are present in the picnic areas accompany-
ing the tables. These grills are often damaged and in poor condition. The lids are rusted
and filled with holes, cooking grates are corroded, and the brick bases are damaged.
Refer to photograph 2 and 3.
3.) Within the picnic areas, as is prevalent in much of the park, there is a signifi-
cant lack of trees. As trees provide for the majority of shade within the park, without
them these areas become uncomfortably hot during the summer months. As a result,
these areas are not being fully utilized.
Observations
1.) Recommendations for the problem of erosion and ground coverage have
been discussed in a previous section of this report. Water erosion in these areas can be
controlled with the use of retaining walls along the waters edge. A combination of
driven wood piles and stone masonry could be used in the construction of these retain-
ing walls.
2.) The District should put a maintenance program in place to address the issue
of the picnic areas. The picnic tables should be repaired and repainted, and the grills
repaired or replaced.
3.) It is recommend that the District install a tree acquisition and planting
program for Buffalo Springs Lake. It is recommended that when this takes place that
the trees be the same species as already exist, Chinese Elm, or those equally suitable
for the area. It is also recommended that the trees be semi-mature so as to provide
shade quickly as opposed to waiting years for the them to fully mature.
Recommendations
Picnic grounds are located throughout both the upper and lower lake. These areas
consist of shade structures, tables, benches, coal fueled grills, and playground equip-
ment. Picnic grounds also include open pavilions for mixed use.
Picnic Grounds
Buffalo Springs Lake | Comprehensive Development Plan
26
29. 1. Picnic area adjacent to water
3. Grill condition
2. Shade structure and grill
Analysis 27
30. 1.) As is prevalent in much of the park, the campgrounds have been subject to
eroded ground cover resulting from vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The absence of
vegetation has resulted in unattractive campsites with loose dust that blow through the
area.
2.) There is a lack of plumbing within the campgrounds. Currently, there is no
access to drinking water in the tent campgrounds. The only sources of fresh water is by
spigots located in the adjacent RV campgrounds. Permanent restrooms are also not
found in the campsites. Portable toilets are currently in use, the presence of which is
damaging to the image of the site.
3.) Within the campgrounds, as is prevalent in much of the park, there are no
designated fire pits. The locations of the current fire pits are not clearly specified and
have led to illegal and damaging campfires being built on the grounds.
Observations
1.) Recommendations for the problem of erosion and ground coverage have
been discussed in a previous section of this report. It is recommended that a
re-vegetation program be put in place for the campgrounds. It is also suggested that
designated parking spaces be present to limit vehicle traffic that could damage ground
vegetation.
2.) The District should first install a new plumbing works system in the campground
areas. This will allow for the implantation of new permanent lavatories for visiting camp-
ers. This will also provide a means of delivering drinking water to the sites. It is recom-
mended that this work be phased. One area at a time should be closed and excavated
so that new plumbing works can be installed. This may be inconvenient by reducing
areas for picnicking and camping, however, overall results will be ideal improvements
for the site.
3.) It is recommend that the District install new fire rings for the site. These new fire
rings should be placed in appropriate locations, clear of trees and vegetation to
prevent the spread of fire, and clearly designated and marked for visiting campers.
Recommendations
Buffalo Springs Lake offers both RV camping and traditional tent campsites
throughout the Upper lake. These areas are located adjacent to the water
and provide easy access to numerous recreational spaces.
Campgrounds
28
Buffalo Springs Lake | Comprehensive Development Plan
31. 1. Ground conditions of campsites
3. Illegally built fire pit
2. Portable toilets located in campsites
Analysis 29
32. 1.) As is prevalent in much of the park, the road leading into the ATV trails has
been subject to ground erosion resulting from vehicle traffic and water runoff. The road
leading into the trails is a steep hill that features a deep crevice running approximately
150 feet down the length of the hill as the result of rain water runoff. The crevice is
approximately 12 to 24 inches wide and 4 to 12 inches deep. The likelihood of a vehicle
falling into the crevice and becoming trapped is extremely high making the road
dangerous to traverse.
2.) The ATV Trails themselves are a series of crisscross paths that cover the area of
the trails. Traffic direction is dictated by signage laid throughout the trails in the form of
directional arrows painted on large boulders. However, the majority of these signs are
faded and illegible.
Observations
1.) Recommendations for the problem of erosion has been discussed in a
previous section of this report. Efforts should be put in place to repair the road and that
the crevice be filled. It is also recommended that road engineers analyses this location
in order to determine if it is possible to divert water runoff away from the road. The
instillation of a drainage system will prevent future erosion.
2.) Signage for the ATV Trails should be replaced with a more permanent sign
system. These new signs must be easily seen and clearly legible to someone moving at
speed while on a vehicle.
Recommendations
Buffalo Springs Lake offers an open all-terrain-vehicle trail in the lower lake
section along the canyon plateau. The trails offer an enjoyable experience
for dirt bike, BMX, and ATV enthusiasts.
ATV Trails
30
Buffalo Springs Lake | Comprehensive Development Plan
33. 1. Road leading to ATV trail 2. Crevice carved into the road
3. Existing signage
Analysis 31
34. 1.) The pavilion is in fair to good conditions however the railing surrounding it is
worn from overuse. The fasteners securing the railing to the foundation have become
loose and broken. As a result of the railing becoming unstable, the benches encircling
it have also become worn and damaged.
2.) A large wood and charcoal fueled grill and smoker is located adjacent to the
pavilion. The grill is worn and in poor conditions. The lids are rusted and filled with holes
and the cooking grates are corroded. An additional problem is that the smoker boxes
attached to the grill are sometimes confused by visitors as trash receptacles and will
dispense their trash in them.
Observations
1.) It is recommended that the District address the maintenance issue of the
pavilion. A maintenance program should repair the concrete foundation of the
pavilion and repair or replace the railing. The benches should also be addressed and
repaired or replaced.
2.) A maintenance program should also address repairs and refurbishing of the
grill and smoker. In order to prevent misuse of the grill, proper trash receptacles should
be installed at the pavilion.
Recommendations
Buffalo Springs Lake offers a number of open use pavilions within the picnic
and campground areas. The largest of these is the Stage Pavilion located in
the upper lake. This pavilion includes a number of tables and benches, a
large grill and smoker, a clear view of the lake, and provides a location for
special events and performances.
Stage Pavilion
32
35. 1. Railing to foundation connection 2. Stage Pavilion’s grill and smoker
Analysis 33
