10 Best Weekend Getaways in East Texas

Posted on December 18, 2023 | Julie J. |

If you’re looking for a unique Texas experience, East Texas is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway with your relatives and friends. Go camping, rent a secluded cabin or historic B&B, or plan a road trip, and enjoy a weekend of exploration.

With its lush forests, rolling hills, and scenic lakes, East Texas offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. The region is also rich in history and culture with plenty of charming small towns and historic sites to visit during a weekend getaway.

Whether you’re interested in enjoying the great outdoors or visiting quaint towns, East Texas has something for everyone. Keep on reading to discover all the best weekend getaways in East Texas!

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East Texas Weekend Getaways In Short:

One of the top destinations for a secluded weekend getaway in East Texas is Caddo Lake, known for its beautiful cypress trees and abundant wildlife. Take a guided tour of the lake to learn about its history and ecology, or rent a kayak or canoe and explore on your own.

Another must-see attraction in East Texas is the Texas State Railroad, which offers scenic train rides through the piney woods. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you ride in vintage train cars and take in the stunning scenery.

If you’re interested in history, be sure to visit the town of Nacogdoches, the oldest town in Texas. Here, you’ll find historic sites such as the Old Stone Fort Museum and the Sterne-Hoya House Museum and Library.

For a taste of small-town charm, head to Jefferson, where you can take a riverboat tour, browse antique shops, and sample delicious Southern cuisine.

Whatever your interests, East Texas is a destination you won’t want to miss.

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Natural Wonders of East Texas

If you’re a nature lover, East Texas has plenty to offer. From towering trees to crystal-clear lakes, the region is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the state.

Caddo Lake State Park

Caddo Lake State Park is one of the most popular parks in Texas, and for good reason.

The shallow waters of the only significant natural lake in Texas foster the growth of a primeval thicket of bald cypress trees. You can explore the narrow channels that wind through groves of the trees, or take a hike on one of the park’s many trails. Spanish moss dripping from the branches lends a spooky air to the park, making it a great spot for photography.

You can rent one of their cabins for the weekend or bring your tent and camp there. Just make sure to book it as soon as you can.

Big Thicket National Preserve

Big Thicket National Preserve is a vast wilderness area that spans nine different ecosystems. The preserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including alligators, black bears, and more than 300 species of birds.

You can hike on one of the many trails, or take a guided canoe trip down one of the area’s many waterways.

There are several campgrounds and lodges available for rent around the preserve.

Daingerfield State Park

Daingerfield State Park is a hidden gem in Texas. The park is home to an 80-acre lake, which is perfect for fishing, swimming, and boating.

You can also hike on one of the park’s many trails, which wind through the surrounding forests. Be sure to keep an eye out for the park’s many resident birds, including woodpeckers, owls, and bald eagles.

The park offers cabins and campsites.

East Texas Outdoor Adventures

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, East Texas is the perfect destination for you. With its beautiful natural scenery, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Here are some of the best places to visit in East Texas for outdoor adventures.

Lake Fork Reservoir

Lake Fork Reservoir is a great place to go fishing, boating, and swimming. It is one of the best bass fishing lakes in the country and has hosted numerous fishing tournaments. With over 27,000 acres of water, there are plenty of opportunities to catch the big one.

You can also rent a boat or kayak to explore the lake.

You’ll find plenty of vacation rentals around the lake as well as a couple of hotels and inns in the surrounding towns.

Piney Woods Wine Trail

If you’re a wine lover, the Piney Woods Wine Trail is a must-visit. The trail includes eight wineries, each with its unique charm and atmosphere. You can sample a variety of wines, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of East Texas. Some wineries even offer live music and food pairings.

Some of the wineries offer accommodations as well for a relaxing weekend getaway in East Texas surrounded by nature. Check out the Blue Jay Cottage at Los Pinos Ranch and the Tara Inn.

Angelina National Forest

Angelina National Forest is a perfect destination for hikers, campers, and nature lovers. With over 153,000 acres of forest, there are plenty of trails to explore. You can hike to the top of a mountain, fish in a river, or simply enjoy a picnic in the woods.

The forest is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds.

There are several campgrounds within the forest as well as several comfortable vacation homes, all perfect for an outdoor weekend getaway in East Texas.

Tyler State Park

Tyler State Park is a great place to go camping, hiking, and swimming, it’s one of the best destinations in Texas for a summer getaway.

The park features over 13 miles of hiking trails, including a trail that leads to a scenic overlook.

You can also rent a paddleboat, kayak, or canoe to explore the lake.

The park has over 100 campsites, including some with water and electricity, as well as a couple of cabins.

Charming Small Towns

If you’re looking for a taste of small-town charm in East Texas, you won’t be disappointed. Here are three towns you should definitely add to your itinerary:

Jefferson

Jefferson is a charming town with a rich history. You can take a ride on a steam train, explore the historic downtown area, or take a boat tour of nearby Caddo Lake.

Don’t miss the opportunity to stay in a bed and breakfast or historic hotel, such as the Carriage House Bed & Breakfast from 1920 or the Benefield House Bed & Breakfast set in a Victorian home, both perfect for a romantic weekend getaway.

Palestine

Palestine is known for its beautiful architecture and historic sites. Take a stroll through the historic district to see the stunning Victorian homes, or visit the Texas State Railroad for a scenic train ride.

You can also explore the local wineries and breweries, or take a hike in Davey Dogwood Park.

Nacogdoches

Nacogdoches is the oldest town in Texas, and it’s full of history and charm, making it a perfect East Texas weekend getaway destination.

Take a walk through the historic downtown area to see the beautiful architecture and unique shops. You can also visit the Old Stone Fort Museum or take a hike in the nearby Davy Crockett National Forest.

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