Texas' Underrated Region With Scenic Lakes And Southern Charm Is A Tree-Filled Escape

Thanks to Wild West movies, most people probably imagine Texas to be an arid stretch of dusty canyons and rocky mesas. They wouldn't exactly be wrong. Epic road trip routes through the state, like the famous Texas-New Mexico loop, bring travelers to icons like Big Bend National Park, practically a lunar landscape of limestone cliffs and sandy deserts. What most people don't realize, however, is that the Lone Star State also boasts vast swaths of enchanting woodlands. Travelers aching to explore backcountry landscapes should head on a whirlwind getaway to the Piney Woods of East Texas.

This region — 23,500 square miles of towering trees, dense forests, rivers, and small towns — is an outdoor adventurer's dream. Paddlers can carve their way through the misty swamps of Big Thicket, while anglers can head out fishing in the region's glittering lakes. Bass and catfish are in abundance at Lake O' the Pines, while the bayous at Caddo Lake are shaded by mossy cypresses. Cozy cabins by the lakeside offer a memorable spot to spend the night. More laid-back travelers can drive along scenic roads through dense pine forests, where meandering trails echo with the call of wildlife.

Sightseers will also find excitement in Piney Woods. From historic architecture in Jefferson to the fascinating museums and festivals of Jacksonville, a smattering of quaint Texas towns offers hours of exploration with a side of Southern charm. Jump in a hot air balloon in Longview to catch panoramas of the Piney Woods from above, or tour the sights of Kilgore, an artsy city with bike trails. Vineyards dotted throughout the region will surely entice wine connoisseurs for a sip amidst picturesque views. With so many adventures packed into such a vast landscape, the underrated Texas Piney Woods offer plenty to explore. 

About an hour's drive north of Houston brings you to the edge of the Sam Houston National Forest, an enormous stretch of woodlands. Eager trekkers won't want to miss the Lone Star Hiking Trail, where you'll traverse winding footpaths bordered by soaring trees thick with underbrush. One hiker described it as "a very wild place" in a Google review. Outdoorsy types will find plenty of campsites within the woodlands, while travelers who are partial to creature comforts should book a stay at the Historic Hill House and Farm, a 19th-century homestead tucked amidst the idyllic landscape.

Follow in the footsteps of the legendary American explorer with an adventure in Davy Crockett National Forest, roughly an hour's drive north of Sam Houston National Forest. Here, several trails meander through pine-scented woodlands, where overlooks offer sweeping views of the East Texas landscape. Cool off in the depths of Ratcliff Lake, or enjoy a picnic by the shore, while anglers can cast a line to reel in bass and catfish. Shady pines tower overhead, painting a picturesque backdrop. Previous visitors have particularly enjoyed the lakeside campground, with one calling it a "hidden little gem" in their Google review.

Enter a world of misty swamps and leafy, overgrown jungles at Big Thicket National Preserve, about a 90-minute drive east of Sam Houston National Forest. Swaying meadows merge into hushed woodlands, hiding adventure behind every corner. Park rangers lead nature hikes into the underbrush, imparting tidbits about Big Thicket's ecology along the way. Stroll along boardwalk trails through the bayous overgrown with cypresses, or join a ranger-led paddling excursion through Big Thicket's coursing waterways. No matter where you are, the Piney Woods offer unforgettable adventures.

Anchoring the Sam Houston National Forest to the northeast is Lake Livingston State Park, where leafy trees frame tranquil views of the water. Rangers here also offer a variety of activities, from guided nature hikes around the lake to discovery talks covering everything from fun facts about alligators and snakes to expert tips on pitching a tent. Meanwhile, almost at the Louisiana border is Caddo Lake State Park, described by a previous visitor as a "mysterious place" in a Google review. Cruise the swamps on a boat tour at the height of summer, or stop by in the autumn for crisp hikes amidst browning cypresses and tawny hues.

After exploring the outdoors, retreat to some of the Piney Woods' historic hamlets for a good meal, a little sightseeing, and a dose of Southern charm. If you've spent the day at Lake Livingston, then don't miss a stop at the town of Livingston, better known as Texas' "jewel of the Piney Woods." Stroll the historic downtown district to find quaint boutiques for shopping, or grab pizza at Joe's Italian Grill, top-rated on Tripadvisor. Culture fiends will enjoy the historic artifacts at the Polk County Memorial Museum, boasting exhibits ranging from ancient fossils and Native American heritage to dioramas recreating the bygone era of steam locomotives.

Anyone who's been frolicking in Davy Crockett National Forest should head to Lufkin next. Spend the day browsing the contemporary art exhibitions in the Museum of East Texas, while children will particularly enjoy the display of dinosaur fossils at the Naranjo Museum of Natural History. Vibrant murals brighten the downtown district, creating a fun backdrop for memorable photos. Whether you're looking for city sightseeing or scenic landscapes, the Texas Piney Woods has it all.