12 Parks and Trails Within 60 Miles of Tyler, Texas

1. Tyler State Park (12 miles north)

• Why Visit? Towering pine forests and a spring-fed lake make this one of East Texas’ best nature spots.
• Activities: Hiking, swimming, kayaking, and mountain biking.
• Website: Tyler State Park

2. Faulkner Park (6 miles south)

• Why Visit? A local favorite with scenic trails and a fishing pond.
• Activities: Hiking, biking, disc golf, and fishing.
• Website: Faulkner Park

3. Rose Rudman & Southside Trails (In Tyler)

• Why Visit? A scenic urban trail system perfect for a quick outdoor escape.
• Activities: Walking, jogging, and biking.
• Website: Rose Rudman Trail

4. UT Tyler Trails (In Tyler)

• Why Visit? A hidden gem on the University of Texas at Tyler campus, featuring peaceful wooded trails.
• Activities: Hiking, running, and birdwatching.
• Website: UT Tyler Trails

5. Old Sabine Bottom Wildlife Management Area (20 miles north)

• Why Visit? A remote, swampy forest with incredible biodiversity.
• Activities: Hiking, fishing, and wildlife photography.
• Website: Old Sabine Bottom WMA

6. Mineola Nature Preserve (35 miles northwest)

• Why Visit? A massive East Texas nature preserve with diverse wildlife and scenic views.
• Activities: Hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and birdwatching.
• Website: Mineola Nature Preserve

7. Love’s Lookout Scenic Park (25 miles southeast)

• Why Visit? One of the most stunning panoramic views in East Texas, perfect for a quick scenic stop.
• Activities: Sightseeing, picnicking, and photography.
• Website: Love’s Lookout

8. Lake Palestine & The Villages Marina (15 miles southwest)

• Why Visit? A large recreational lake great for water activities.
• Activities: Boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming.
• Website: Lake Palestine

9. Caddo Lake State Park (60 miles northeast)

• Why Visit? Features mystical cypress swamps and some of the best canoeing in Texas.
• Activities: Paddling, hiking, and fishing.
• Website: Caddo Lake State Park

10. Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari (40 miles southeast)

• Why Visit? A wildlife safari park featuring zebras, bison, and giraffes in East Texas.
• Activities: Wildlife viewing and photography.
• Website: Cherokee Trace Safari

11. Martin Creek Lake State Park (50 miles southeast)

• Why Visit? A lesser-known lake park with great fishing, hiking, and camping.
• Activities: Hiking, camping, and water sports.
• Website: Martin Creek Lake State Park

12. Paul G. Boorman Trail (Longview) (40 miles east)

• Why Visit? A beautiful greenbelt trail in Longview, great for walking and biking.
• Activities: Jogging, cycling, and nature walks.
• Website: Paul G. Boorman Trail

These parks and trails showcase the natural beauty of East Texas, offering hiking, water activities, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. Whether you want to explore forests, lakes, or swamps, there’s a perfect spot near Tyler for your next adventure! 🚀🌿