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 Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🐟 Top Species | White bass, catfish, crappie |
| 🎣 License (Pier/Bank) | NOT REQUIRED in park (2 poles max) |
| 🚤 License (Boat) | Valid TX fishing license required |
| 🛥️ Boat Ramps | 3 |
| 🔪 Fish Cleaning | 2 stations |
| 🎣 Fishing Pier | Available |
🦪 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
| Campground | Type |
|---|---|
| 🔌 Piney Shores/Red Oak/Yaupon/Pin Oak | Full hookups |
| ⚡ Hercules/Pin Oak | Water/electric |
| ⛺ Briar Loop | Primitive tent-only |
| 🏕️ Screened Shelters | Available |
Trails
| Trails | Details |
|---|---|
| 🥾 Total Miles | 8+ miles |
| 🐴 Horseback Riding | Some trails designated |
Frequently Asked Questions
Wildlife & Nature
Lake Livingston SP — on Lake Livingston (83,000 acres) — the second-largest lake in Texas. The park’s East Texas pine forest, lake, and bottomland support white-tailed deer, armadillos, and bald eagles.
Nearby Attractions
Livingston — adjacent — seat of Polk County. Alabama-Coushatta Indian Reservation — nearby.
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.
Explore More Texas State Parks
Lake Livingston State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Texas. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Texas guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Huntsville State Park (within about an hour’s drive) and Martin Dies Jr. State Park (elsewhere in the state).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Lake Livingston State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome at almost all Texas State Parks on trails and in campgrounds, but must be on leash, in a car, or in a crate at all times and may not be left unattended.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 6 ft maximum leash required at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed in the water or on land around designated swim areas
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted in any state park buildings, including motels, cabins, screened shelters and group facilities
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Several parks restrict dogs in specific areas (Big Bend Ranch, Enchanted Rock, Government Canyon, Hueco Tanks); proof of current rabies vaccination required
Are dogs allowed at Lake Livingston State Park?
Pets are welcome at almost all Texas State Parks on trails and in campgrounds, but must be on leash, in a car, or in a crate at all times and may not be left unattended. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via tpwd.texas.gov. More: Texas state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Lake Livingston State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
Top Tours & Activities Near Houston
from $50
from $71
from $75