We’ve now visited all of the East Texas Region state parks! I snagged 4 days out of our busy spring schedule and we completed the last 4 parks in the southern part of the region. We daytripped Huntsville and Livingston state parks on the way to Martin Dies Jr. State Park where we set up camp for 3 nights. We also daytripped Village Creek state park from Martin Dies Jr.

We were on the road a little after 7am Tuesday and hit Huntsville around 12:30 just in time for a picnic lunch. We had the day use area all to ourselves and the kids enjoyed exploring the playground and CCC built lodge. The swim area is closed with caution tape roping it off due to alligators frequenting the area more often the last couple years, but the water had little appeal to us anyway.

After our lunch break, we drove to the other side of the park for a 1.5 mile hike. The trail along the lake was beautiful and we got our chance to see some alligators! The loop also took us by a boardwalked portion of the trail that goes all the way around the lake. After exploring a little bit of that area, we finished our stroll through the trees the rest of the way back. Once settled back in the car, we continued east to Lake Livingston State Park.

We really enjoyed the scenery and tranquility of this park! I’ve opted out of camping at it due to its proximity to Houston and I-45. I just felt like it would be a madhouse; even during the week. But it was so quiet and many of the campsites have lovely views of the peaceful lake. We will probably try to go back at some point to relax and spend some time on the numerous trails. We’ll still avoid the weekends, just to be safe. 🙂

-Lindsay