Paul S. Dryer Preserve

Paul S. Dryer Preserve at Windmill Hill

DeSoto, Texas, 75 Acres

Preserve Features

Although surrounded by a subdivision, this 75-acre Preserve features hills, woods, meadows, and a creek. Visitors can either walk through the woods and meadows or ride bicycles on natural surface trails that the Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association has helped create.

Preserve History

Prior to being acquired by the County in 1993, the property was owned by a developer who anticipated building new homes on the site. When these plans were unsuccessful, the County, recognizing the importance of preserving such a large, heavily-wooded site in what is otherwise an urban area, acquired the property.

In January 2022, the Dallas County Commissioners Court renamed Windmill Hill Preserve for Paul S. Dryer, who has dedicated over 30 years of volunteer service to this preserve. 

Preserve Amenities

The Preserve has paved parking at two locations, a 1/2-mile ADA trail, picnic tables, and five miles of natural-surface trails that wind through hilly escarpment-like terrain. 

Maintenance

Paul S. Dryer Preserve at Windmill Hill is maintained by the City of DeSoto. To report maintenance issues, please call City of DeSoto Parks and Recreation at (972) 230-9653.

Restricted Uses

Hunting and the use of alcohol, motorized vehicles, fireworks, or weapons are not permitted within the Preserve.