little island in the lake at Daingerfield State Park

Little island in the lake. Photo: Honest Abe!, Flickr

Tucked away in the northeastern corner of Texas, lies the picturesque Daingerfield State Park.

At just over 500 acres it’s not the biggest Texas state park, but it is a popular destination for residents of Dallas, Fort Worth and Arlington. Which are all located just a couple of hours drive away.

Established in 1938, one of the park’s big draws is the 80-acre Daingerfield Lake which is a great place for boating, fishing and swimming.

It’s also known for its breathtaking collection of oaks, maples and pines, that lends the park the nickname of ‘The Cathedral of Trees’. Which are often best appreciated through one of the many scenic lookouts that feature on the hiking trails.

Open all year round, the park provides a fantastic getaway for those who want to immerse themselves in nature. It also offers plenty of accommodation options including full hookup sites for RVs and trailers, as well as tent campsites, cabins and even a lodge, to visitors who want to stay for a few nights.

Activities

Park visitors are able to enjoy a wide selection of outdoor recreational activities during their time there.
Below is just a small selection of some of the many activities you can engage in.

Boating at Daingerfield State Park

If you bring your own boat with you, the lake is a place you’ll definitely want to take it out for a ride.

While you are allowed to use your motor, just be mindful that you can’t go over five miles an hour.

One of the most popular boating activities is to head out to the CCC Island which lies across from Big Pine Campground to enjoy a picnic.

You can also reach there via watercraft like kayak, canoe and SUP if you want, some of which can be rented from the Little Pines General Store.

If you do decide to go out on the water, its always worth wearing a lifejacket.

Swimming at Daingerfield State Park

Swimming can actually take place on any part of the lake. However, most people tend to stick to the designated area near the Little Pines General Store.

This area also has a floating platform as well, which you can swim out to and sunbath on for a while.

There are no lifeguards on patrol here, so you will have to take to the water at your own risk. If you do, be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen as the intense heat of the Texan sun can burn you pretty quickly.

Fishing at Daingerfield State Park

Fishing is a hugely popular activity at the lake with many anglers relishing the chance to chuck a line in the 80-acre Daingerfield Lake.

Bass are always biting, with worms or topwater lures being particularly attractive to them. While catfish are usually plentiful too.

The lake also features chain pickerel, which is not too dissimilar from pike. If you catch them, make sure you use a steel leader and do not put your fingers near their mouth, as they have very sharp teeth.

Hiking at Daingerfield State Park

If you enjoy nothing more than a good hike the park provides you with plenty of opportunity to stretch your legs.

Several trails run throughout it, all of which showcase different parts of its stunning landscape.

One of the most popular trails is the Rustling Leaves Trail which runs for 2.4 miles and takes you from the parking lot near the main entrance around the entire lake. If you head to the peninsula on the south side of the lake you will find picnic grills and tables there.

If you would prefer a bit more of a challenge, the 1.2-mile Mountain View Trail will lead you up to the park’s highest spot. From here the views of the pine-covered bluffs are incredible and should be able to see for miles on a clear day.

Pets at Daingerfield State Park

Pets are welcome to join you at the park, although some restrictions may apply.

Should you want to bring your dog with you, it is a good idea to contact the park’s main office to determine what they are.

Camping at Daingerfield State Park

For those who want to spend a few days at the park there are several accommodation options open to them.

At the Big Pine area you will find 10 pull-through sites with full hookups for electricity, water and sewer. These all come with their own picnic table and are located near restrooms.

You’ll also find 30 back-in sites with the same set up at the Dogwood Campground.

In addition to these, the Cedar Ridge area accommodates 18 tent only sites that come with hookups for water. These also have their own tent pad, picnic tables, an outdoor grill, fire ring and are close to restrooms.

If you would prefer to stay in a cabin there are three available, one of which is ADA accessible. Two of these cabins – including the ADA one – can sleep four people, the other six.

All of them have bedrooms, a kitchen with a two-burner stove, refrigerator and microwave, and one bathroom. They are also equipped with a picnic table, air conditioning and heater, fireplace and come with electricity, water, toilet and showers.

An alternate option for a large group of up to 15 people is to stay at the Bass Lodge.

Furnished with five bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room with dining table and chairs. As well as air conditioning, heating and a fully equipped kitchen, it provides visitors with a home away from home while at the park.

Park Location

Daingerfield State Park
455 Park Rd 17,
Daingerfield, TX 75638
Phone: 903.645.2921

Website
Reservations

Map

Video

Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Daingerfield State Park: