Deep In A National Forest, Huntsville State Park Is An Enchanting East Texas Escape
By Katie Lawrence|Published July 01, 2020
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Texas is full of state parks, some of which are criminally underrepresented. Huntsville State Park is one such place, hidden deep within the East Texas Pineywoods, and it’s the ultimate summer bucket list destination. Read on for more information on this stunning destination:
Hiding deep within the Sam Houston National Forest, Huntsville State Park is a 2,000-acre outdoor recreation area that doesn't get nearly enough recognition. Just a short drive north of Houston, this hidden gem in the Pineywoods is an unparalleled destination for camping, hiking, fishing, swimming, and many more activities.
21 miles of trails wind through the woodland terrain, running parallel to the waterfront for much of their length. Along the way, playgrounds, a bird blind, and a nature center offer plenty of attractions sure to entertain the whole family.
Lake Raven, a deep blue, 210-acre oasis, allows for a variety of water activities. Rent a canoe, kayak, or paddle boat, fish, or swim in the designated area from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m.
Fishing piers are placed where the largest concentrations of crappie, perch, catfish and bass are found. Nothing quite compares to the tranquility of casting your line, waiting for a bite, and repeating as long as your heart desires.
A whopping 160 campsites provide ample opportunity for park visitors to extend their stay overnight. Some feature water faucets, others boast electricity, and still others have full hookup capability.
Whether you decide to camp or just stick with a day trip, make sure to stay at least until sunset. The colors of an East Texas evening sky are simply unparalleled!
Huntsville State Park is open from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. daily. To enter, you'll need to reserve passes online or call the customer service office before arriving.
Have you ever been to Huntsville State Park? If so, what’s your favorite thing about it? Let us know, and check out our previous article for more bucket list-worthy state parks: 20 Amazing State Parks In Texas That Will Blow You Away.
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