New Deal History

The CCC Built Cleburne State Park During the Great Depression

Local residents donated the land for Cleburne State Park in 1934, and Civilian Conservation Corps workers constructed the dam, roads, and stone structures still in use today.

Johnson County History & Culture

In 1934, area residents offered a scenic valley near Cleburne as a park site. A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) company moved in and built the earthen dam that created Cedar Lake, a three-mile scenic roadway, and stone structures including a concession building, boathouse, bathhouse, and the Camp Creek Bridge.

The CCC-built structures are still standing. Cleburne State Park is one of many Texas parks built by the CCC during the New Deal era. It sits at 5800 Park Road 21, Cleburne. Learn more at tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/cleburne/history.

Source to confirm: TPWD — Cleburne State Park History

More Johnson County notes

Property Tax

Two Offices Handle Property Tax in Johnson County

Johnson County has a separate appraisal district and tax office — they do different jobs, so knowing which one to call saves you time.

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Property Tax

Homestead Exemption Can Lower Your Property Tax Bill

If your home in Johnson County is your main residence, you likely qualify for a homestead exemption that reduces the taxable value.

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Agricultural Appraisal

Ag Valuation Can Sharply Cut Taxes on Rural Land

If your rural land in Johnson County is actively used for farming or ranching, it may qualify to be taxed on its productivity value instead of market value — often a big difference.

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Vehicle Registration

Register Your Car at the Johnson County Tax Office

The Johnson County Tax Office handles vehicle titles and registration — the same office where you pay property taxes.

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