3 AMAZING STATE PARKS IN DRIVING DISTANCE OF TEXARKANA, TX

Texas has a long list of state parks to explore, but we’re happy to help you narrow down the list of options near Texarkana, TX. Check out one of our three favorite destinations when you want to appreciate the natural beauty of the Lone Star State.

You only have to drive about an hour from Texarkana to Karnack to reach Caddo Lake State Park, so it’s a great day trip or weekend adventure. We love to look for geocaches and paddle a canoe under the giant bald cypresses that dot Caddo Lake. You can angle for more than 70 different types of fish, or check out the park’s paddling trail, known as Hell’s Half Acre.

Caddo Lake State Park is located at 245 Park Rd 2. You can visit daily from 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., with a $4 entry fee for guests ages 13 and older. Camping is available in historic cabins, screened shelters, and campsites.

Less than 2 hours from Texarkana in Tatum, Martin Creek Lake State Park is known for having warm water all year, so it’s a popular place to swim. You can also fish for sunfish, tilapia, crappie, largemouth bass, and catfish, with the convenience of on-site canoe and fishing gear rentals, a lighted fishing pier, and a boat ramp. Martin Creek Lake State Park offers 4 miles of biking and hiking trails that allow you to step back in time and explore regional history.

If you plan to stay for the weekend, you can rent a cabin, screened shelter, or tent campsite. Martin Creek Lake State Park is located at 9515 County Rd 2181D. It’s open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. with a $4 entry fee for adults and kids 13 and older.

About a 2-hour drive from Texarkana, Tyler State Park offers refreshing swims in its spring-fed lake, where you can also fish, paddle, and picnic on the shores. If you want to get some exercise, you can work up a sweat first on more than 13 miles of hiking trails, including the historic Whispering Pines Nature Trail constructed by the federal Civilian Conservation Corps program.

While you’re here, try renting a boat or attend an informative ranger program. Entry to Tyler State Park costs $6 for ages 13 and older. It’s open from 8:30 to 4:30 p.m. with extended hours in the summer months. The park is located at 789 Park Rd 16.

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