Swim, Hike, Or Camp At Texas' Under-The-Radar Shaded And Scenic Oasis Of A State Park

Picture this: it's summer, and you're sweating to death at the office wishing you could go back to simpler times when summer meant relaxing lakeside and camping under the stars. While we can't make your boss give you time off — what we can do is share a place you can go to have that desired All-American summer once more. Nestled in the piney woods of East Texas about 20 minutes from Tyler sits an oasis where visitors can unplug and enjoy time in the great outdoors. This 985-acre state park is known for its 100-foot-tall trees, a serene lake, 13 miles of hiking and biking trails, and historic structures. 

One of the park's defining features is its 64-acre spring-fed lake — serving as the focal point for many exciting and relaxing activities, such as boating, swimming, and fishing. The parks' many miles of trails allow explorers to see different flora and fauna — including white-tailed deer, fox, coyote, opossum, and the occasional armadillo or skunk. According to their website, over 200 species of birds have also been identified throughout the park.

In addition to its miles of untouched natural beauty, Tyler State Park is also steeped in history — with remnants of relics discovered in prehistoric times. Visitors have access to a range of great amenities — including cabins, campsites, picnic areas, and different equipment to enjoy the lake. Whether you're looking to spend a few days out in nature, or simply want to come for the day, Tyler State Park is a great place to explore the natural beauty Texas has to offer. 

Between 1935 and 1941, Tyler State Park was created with the help of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) (a program developed by Teddy Roosevelt to provide jobs to skilled workers during the great depression) — as members built roads, buildings, picnic areas, and a bathhouse still used today. Now, thanks to the work of the CCC, visitors can come and enjoy a beautiful day in the great outdoors.

For those who like hiking, Tyler State Park provides over 13 miles of well-marked recreational trails. The more popular among these trails are Lakeshore Trail — a 2.1-mile scenic loop with stunning lakeside views, the Whispering Pines Trail — a .25-mile trail built by the CCC that winds past some historical sites, and the B Loop Trail — a 3 mils trail that winds through pine and hardwood forests and is great for both hiking and biking.

For those who prefer to chill lakeside, Tyler State Park offers boating and fishing equipment for rent. Great news for those who don't have a fishing license – here you don't need one to fish from the shore. Visitors can also borrow fishing rods, reels, and tackle boxes as part of the Texas Parks loaner program. The lake is swimming (pun intended) with bass, catfish, crappie, and perch, and the park offers rentals of canoes, paddleboats, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and johnboats. The park also allows visitors to bring their own motorized boats, however, there is a 5mph speed limit on the lake. Tyler State Park is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit are during spring and fall when temperatures are mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. 

For those looking to spend more than a few hours enjoying the park, there are several camping sites available, ranging from water-only to full hookups. Prices range from 18 to 48 USD per night. Six cabin sites are also available to choose from — each 60 USD nightly minus the park entrance fee (6 USD per adult, children 12 and under free). Visitors can also book a stay in a screened shelter, which is basically a cabin with screens for walls. Stays here are 32 USD nightly excluding the entry fee. Campsite and cabin reservations can be made through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website, and it is recommended to make reservations in advance for busier times.

Tyler State Park is conveniently located off Interstate 20, about 90 miles east of Dallas and a 20-minute drive from downtown Tyler. Speaking of Tyler, if your visit to the area is in spring (specifically late-March to early-April), be sure to pay a visit to not only the park to see wildflowers bloom, but also the city as its hosts the Azalea & Spring Flower Trail — an event covering more than ten miles of residential gardens and historic home sites covered in stunning spring flowers.

The third weekend of every October, the city hosts the annual Rose Festival — complete with a coronation, parade, and other events. If your visit does not coincide with October and you still would like to smell the roses, the Tyler Municipal Rose Garden — spanning 14 acres — is open year-round and is free to visit. Whether you're planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, Tyler State Park offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in the heart of East Texas.