It’s hard to believe, but summer is winding down already. We all want to squeeze the last drops of rest and relaxation out of the season, (regardless of whether or not we’ve had much of that previously). Well I would suggest a trip to a favorite East Texas stop. As Texans we are blessed with a wonderful system of State Parks. Tyler State Park puts the Texas Piney Woods on display both for locals and out of towners. The park is centered around a sixty four acre lake and offers a full array of activities including: swimming, hiking, boating, fishing and camping. There are bike trails of varying difficulty and campgrounds fully equipped with water, electricity, tables and fire pits. If a customer enjoys the outdoors but prefers the comforts of the indoors, there are screened shelters and cabins.

For day trips the swimming and boating area of the park is very convenient. There is a great beach with restrooms and a concession and gift shop close by. But East Texans need not worry about trying to cram a visit into a busy summer. In Texas some of the best out door time comes in the fall. What could be better than sitting by a fire on a cool autumn night? The Park is open all year although a few activities, (like swimming for instance) may be closed for the season. This is still one of the best times to camp however, due to a lack of bugs and the cooler weather.

The cost of an outing T.S.P. is quite reasonable. A day pass is just three dollars a day for those over thirteen years of age. For primitive campsites, (meaning sites with water but no electricity) the cost is just thirteen dollars a night. For campsites with water and electric, the cost is slightly higher at seventeen dollars a night. For campsites offering water, electric and sewer hook ups, (designated primarily for recreational vehicles) the cost is twenty dollars a night. If you desire all of these functions and spot by the lake, the cost is twenty two dollars a night, (tents are permitted in this area). Lastly, screened in areas are for rent as well at a rate of twenty five dollars a night.

For businesses, church groups, or others, there are numerous programs and venues for their organized events. The park periodically holds educational events for the public as well. For more information on these opportunities see the parks webpage at www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/tyler, or call (903)597-5338. Tyler State park is located on highway fourteen just off Interstate twenty.

Whether you want to close your summer with a bang, or are already planning for a fall getaway this area park has a lot to offer at a reasonable rate. Consider maximizing your play time, minimizing your travel time, and spending that vacation money close to home.