Get in Touch with Nature by Visiting These 10 Hidden Gems in East Texas

When the weather in East Texas starts to break, there’s nothing better to do with your free time than enjoy getting out in nature. While you may already have a few favorite parks or walking trails, here are ten hidden gems to help you get in touch with nature.

1. Caldwell Zoo in Tyler, TX

The 85-acre zoo in Tyler, Texas, is home to animals from all over the world. As a member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, the Caldwell Zoo participates in various breeding projects. Currently, animals like giraffes, flamingoes, rhinos, jaguars, anteaters, and others are born and raised in the zoo. Stop by to see the largest African elephant in North America or enjoy a walk through the famous aviary.

2. KidsView Outdoor Park In Longview, TX

Are you looking for a way to get the kids outdoors to burn off some energy? KidsView Outdoor Playground at Lear Park offers a variety of play stations for different age groups, including climbing ropes, a play castle, and a puppet show station. Come early or late to avoid the hot temperatures.

3. The Bringle Lake Trail In Texarkana, TX

Bike riders, joggers, and walkers love the Bringle Lake Trail in East, TX. You’ll enjoy winding passages through woods on your way to the Bringle Lake Dam. The total trip (one way) is 1.7 miles, so you can even get in practice for your upcoming 5k while surrounded by nature.

4. Karma Farms In Marshall, TX

If you’d love to enjoy some fresh air on the back of a Colonial Spanish horse, Karma Farms is the place to go. This 150-acre family farm offers riding sessions and lessons. It’s even a great place to enjoy your first time on a horse. Make sure to reserve your spot over the phone before making the trip.

5. Grapeland Safari In Palestine, TX

Sometimes walking around the zoo is too much work on a hot day. That’s when you should head over to Grapeland Safari for a nature tour from the seat of your own car. This 59-acre park lets you see zebras, llamas, buffalo, kangaroos, camels, and more. You can also step
outside to try pony and train rides.

6. Fair Park In Henderson, TX

The people of East TX love to call Fair Park a “fitness park” because of all of the wonderful activities it offers. You can walk/jog on the two-mile ADA-accessible trail, join a game of tennis, let loose in the splash park, or try a few tricks in the skate park. Stop by on Saturday mornings for the Rusk County Farmer’s market and get some fresh goodies for your day outside.

7. Love’s Lookout In Jacksonville, TX

Love’s Lookout is a great place to enjoy a scenic walk or picnic with family and friends. It has a 5,500-square-foot facility with clean restrooms and a sheriff’s sub-station. What you’ll really love is the 713-foot elevation that offers views of up to 35 miles away.

8. Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards In Mount Pleasant, TX

Who said that spending time outdoors has to involve rigorous exercise? When you visit the Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards, you’ll be greeted with beautiful views. Some people even go as far as to call this ranch “Texcany” for its Tuscany-like feel. Stop by the tasting room to sample the goodies.

9. SFA Interpretive Trail In Nacogdoches, TX

Those who want to sweat shouldn’t pass up a biking or hiking trip to the SFA Interpretive Trail in East, TX. The park has two trails spanning three miles through some of the most dynamic views in the area. You’ll encounter over 150 species of birds and 80 species of butterflies if you keep your eyes open.

10. Ellen Trout Zoo In Lufkin, TX

The Ellen Trout Zoo is called one of the best small-town zoos in the country. You can explore over 800 wild and exotic animals, including hippos, monkeys, giraffes, and more. You can even enjoy a scenic ride on a pre-Civil War trail replica along the lake.

Choose Your East Texas Adventure

Ready for some great road trips? With so many places in East Texas that deliver fun and adventure for the whole family, your weekends and holidays are going to be booked. Go have some fun!