East Texas: land of towering loblollies and rust-red clay roads, moss-draped swamps and cypress forests, peace and quiet and—yes—the mysterious unknown. Despite the fact that it’s our own neck of the woods, for many Houstonians, the region remains sequestered behind that famous Pine Curtain.
Well, we at Houstonia like a mystery. It’s what beckons us onto the highway on a blue-sky weekend, propelling us away from city life, toward something brand-new.
For this story, we slipped through the Pine Curtain to explore the best of the region’s 11 state parks, where pristine forests, inviting campsites, well-marked trails and fish-stocked lakes are preserved for all Texans—if they know where to go and when. Summer is high season, so make sure to reserve a campsite ahead of time at these, our seven favorite state parks in the Piney Woods.
No matter your level of camping experience, or even your interest in the great outdoors, there’s a state park in the region for you to enjoy. Read on, and that much, at least, we’ll demystify for you. The rest is waiting to be discovered…
For the Fishermen (And the Wannabe Fishermen): Lake Livingston State Park
Think you can beat the record catch at Lake Livingston? You'll have to hook a 115-pound catfish first.
For the Gung-Ho Glampers: Daingerfield State Park
For those times when you just can't camp without a hot shower at end of the day.
Another Excuse to Go Hiking: Geocaching
The upside of camping with a cell phone? The resurgence of geocaching.
For the Casual Campers: Martin Creek Lake State Park
It may be the loudest state park in Texas, but it's still one of our favorites—and here's why.
The Flora of the Piney Woods
Did you know? Spanish moss is neither a moss nor a lichen.
For the History Hounds: Mission Tejas State Park
More than mounds abound in this part of Texas, where the Caddo Indians once reigned.
Cowboy Coffee & Chili: Campfire Cooking 101
Need tips for cooking in the wild? Ask a cowgirl.
For the Canoers and Kayakers: Caddo Lake State Park
A potential Bigfoot sighting is far from the only reason to visit Texas's largest—and only—natural lake.
The Fauna of the Piney Woods
From water moccasins to woodpeckers, what to watch for—and what to watch out for—in East Texas.
For the City Slickers: Huntsville State Park
Horse stable? Check. Spec's for champagne? Also check.
For the Happy Hikers: Martin Dies Jr. State Park
Don't mind the alligators—no, seriously.
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