Lake Livingston State Park
Texas

Lake Livingston State Park

Available Activities
  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Boating
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Photography
  • Picnicking
  • Horseback Riding
  • Bird Watching
  • Geocaching
  • Paddling
  • Biking
  • Historic Sites
Verified by America’s State Parks Editorial Team – Updated February 2026

Lake Livingston State Park offers prime access to Texas’s second-largest lake (90,000+ acres!) with excellent fishing, a park store and marina, screened shelters, and trails for hiking and horseback riding. Target white bass, catfish, and crappie from three boat ramps or the fishing pier—no license needed when fishing from park structures!

🔧 Park Improvements Through Sept 2026

  • Construction: Dec 2025 – Sept 2026
  • Some camping areas, trails, and lodging may have temporary closures
  • Prescribed burns: Dec – April (expect smoke)
  • Alligators: Present—review safety tips!
  • Contact park before visiting for current conditions

Fishing

Fishing InfoDetails
🐟 Top SpeciesWhite bass, catfish, crappie
🎣 License (Pier/Bank)NOT REQUIRED in park (2 poles max)
🚤 License (Boat)Valid TX fishing license required
🛥️ Boat Ramps3
🔪 Fish Cleaning2 stations
🎣 Fishing PierAvailable

🦪 Zebra Mussel Alert

Drain all water from boats when entering or exiting public fresh waters. Zebra mussels have been detected in Lake Livingston.

Camping & Shelters

CampgroundType
🔌 Piney Shores/Red Oak/Yaupon/Pin OakFull hookups
Hercules/Pin OakWater/electric
Briar LoopPrimitive tent-only
🏕️ Screened SheltersAvailable

Trails

TrailsDetails
🥾 Total Miles8+ miles
🐴 Horseback RidingSome trails designated

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a fishing license?

Not for pier or bank fishing within state park boundaries—but you’re limited to 2 fishing poles maximum. If you’re fishing from a boat on Lake Livingston, a valid Texas fishing license IS required.

Are there cabins?

Lake Livingston offers screened shelters rather than traditional cabins. For full cabins, check nearby private campgrounds like Lagoon Ranch RV Resort. Multiple campsite types are available, from primitive to full hookup.

Is the park affected by construction?

Yes. Significant improvements are underway from December 2025 through September 2026. Some camping areas, lodging facilities, and trails may have temporary closures. Expect construction equipment and workers. Contact the park before visiting for current conditions.

What about alligators?

Alligators are present at Lake Livingston State Park. Review posted safety tips—never feed alligators, maintain distance, and be aware near water, especially at dawn and dusk.

Can I horseback ride?

Yes! The park has 8+ miles of trails, some designated for horseback riding. Check with park staff for current trail status, especially during construction.

🐟 Fish Texas’s Second-Largest Lake

Catfish, white bass, and crappie await! No license needed from shore. Visit the official Lake Livingston State Park website for reservations.

State Parks Team
Written by

State Parks Team

Editorial Team

The State Parks Team is a group of outdoor enthusiasts, researchers, and travel writers dedicated to showcasing America's state parks. Drawing on collective experience visiting parks in all 50 states, the team creates detailed guides, curated park lists, and practical tips to help visitors make the most of their state park adventures. Our mission: making America's state parks accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Last updated: February 8, 2026

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