Tyler State Park

Known for its idyllic 64-acre spring-fed lake, and stately pine trees that rise up to 100 feet, Tyler State Park is a true nature lover’s paradise.

Situated pretty much halfway between Dallas in Texas and Shreveport in Louisiana, this fabulous 985.5-acre Texas State Park offers the perfect weekend getaway for those who want a digital detox.

Best explored on foot, visitors can get an up close look of the tall, piney woods on several hiking trails that run near the water. They can also partake in boating, fishing and swimming at the lake too. While bird lovers enjoy the opportunity to spot a number of different species.

For those who want to camp, the park doesn’t disappoint. Offering 77 different sites for RVs, that come with either full or partial hookups. Some of which can hold rigs of up to 105 feet.

If you are looking for somewhere with peace, serenity and outstanding natural beauty, you can’t go wrong in coming to this Texas state park.

Activities

A big drawcard of this park is that visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor recreational pursuits within it.
Here is a small selection of some of the many things you can do during you are there.

Boating at Tyler State Park

If you are into boating, the 64-acre spring-fed lake is a terrific place to enjoy this pastime.

Many visitors regularly take canoes, SUP, kayaks and johnboats to the water, providing them with a great way to relax, as well as a fabulous perspective of the park’s scenery.

Should you not own any of these types of vessels, they are available to rent them from the park’s store.

Swimming at Tyler State Park

We all know the heat of the Texan sun can be unbearable at times, which is why you might want to bring your swimming costume with you to the park.

The lake here provides an excellent place to cool off in the summer months, although you will need to exercise caution if you are planning to go for a dip, as the area is not patrolled by lifeguards.

Near the lakes you will also find facilities like a bathhouse, restrooms, children’s playground and also a number of picnic tables for you to enjoy an al fresco meal.

Fishing at Tyler State Park

If you are a keen angler, you’ll be pleased to read that the fish usually bite all year round.

Throughout the park there is a boat ramp and three fishing piers to cast a line at. With the likes of bass, perch, catfish and crappie all being available in abundance.

The good thing about fishing at this park is that you don’t need a licence to fish from the shore. You don’t even have to bring your own poles, tackle or bait with you as the park offers a Tackle Loaner Program where you can hire them out.

Hiking at Tyler State Park

With more than 13 miles of trails situated within it, the park is best explored on foot. Showcasing its magnificent landscape which includes the picturesque lake, imposing 100-foot tall trees, lush grassy savanna terrain and historic buildings.

Here are some of the most popular trails at Tyler State Park:

• Blackjack Nature Trail – Length: 0.4 miles. Degree of Difficulty: easy
• Lakeshore Trail – Length: 2 miles. Degree of Difficulty: moderate
• Whispering Pines Nature Trail – Length: 0.75 miles. Degree of Difficulty: challenging

Birding at Tyler State Park

The park is a haven for those who enjoy birding, with many different species residing in it year round.

Some of the most common breeds you should see include red-breasted woodpeckers and cardinals.

One of the best spots to base yourself at for birdwatching is the Lakeshore Trail, especially at the swampy end of the trail.

To get the most out of your birding experience, be sure to take the guided Great Backyard Birding Classic.

Pets at Tyler State Park

Pets are welcome in the park, although dogs must remain on a leash at all times you are here, and also cleaned up afterwards.

Some restrictions may apply however, so to clarify what they are, you might want to contact the park’s main office.

Camping at Tyler State Park

For those who want to stay at the park there are several options available for overnight accommodation. Most of which are contained within three separate areas.

The Big Pine Trailer Area is situated near the west shore of the lake and is exclusively for RVs. Overall it offers 39 sites with full hook-ups for water, electric and sewer. Each of which also comes with a picnic table, lantern post and fire ring. Restrooms and hot showers are also located near this campground.

At the Lakeview Camping Area there are 18 RV sites with full hookups. Again these all come with a picnic table, fire rings and lantern post. You will also find a dump station and comfort station with restrooms and showers here too.

The Cedar Point Campground is situated close to the park entrance and offers 20 sites with electric hookups. It also has restrooms and showers, as well as a dump station and drinking water.

If you would prefer, there are also six limited-service cabins available at the Creekside Campground, one of which is accessible for wheelchairs.

Amenities here include a group dining area as well as a shower and restroom.

Park Location

Tyler State Park
789 Park Rd 16,
Tyler, TX 75706
Phone: 903.597.5338

Website
Reservations

Map

Video

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