Jacksonville TexasBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Jacksonville, Texas.
1. Lake Jacksonville
CRYSTAL-CLEAR LAKE RETREAT
Lake Jacksonville is a scenic, 1,325-acre lake known for its clear water, exceptional beauty, and vibrant recreational atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy swimming, relaxing on the sandy lake beach, fishing for renowned largemouth bass and crappie, boating, and evening sunsets that reflect off the tranquil water. The lake's unique appeal lies in its blend of natural splendor, water sports opportunities, and annual events such as the Fourth of July fireworks show.
2. Lake Jacksonville Campgrounds & Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WATERFRONT ESCAPE
The Lake Jacksonville Campgrounds and Beach area offer a relaxing lakeside experience with a public beach, swimming pier, and picnic facilities surrounded by serene East Texas pine forests. Campers and day visitors can swim, fish, and observe local wildlife, then settle into one of the 27 camping sites with amenities like shelters, RV pads, and barbecue pits. The peaceful lakeshore atmosphere and convenient facilities make this spot ideal for both family outings and longer camping escapes.
3. Cherokee Neches Paddling Trail
SCENIC RIVER ADVENTURE
The Cherokee Neches Paddling Trail offers up to eight miles of river paddling west of Jacksonville, where visitors are surrounded by lush landscapes and flowing waters. This spot is perfect for kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts seeking a peaceful float, with opportunities to spot birds and wildlife along the banks. The unique appeal of this paddling trail comes from its blend of gentle river adventure and tranquil East Texas scenery.
4. Tyler State Park
LAKESIDE PARK RETREAT
Tyler State Park features a spring-fed lake surrounded by towering pines, offering a sandy beach for swimming, paddling, and sunbathing just north of Jacksonville. The park is known for its clear water, nature trails, fishing, and picnic areas that create an inviting lakeside atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the family-friendly setting, scenic beauty, and variety of outdoor recreation.
5. Martin Creek Lake State Park
WARM LAKE HIDEAWAY
Martin Creek Lake State Park offers a sandy swimming beach, fishing piers, and boating on a large reservoir about an hour from Jacksonville. The park is popular for its warm water, abundant fish, and shaded picnic spots, making it a relaxing destination for water lovers. Its lakeside setting and variety of aquatic activities set it apart as a favorite East Texas escape.
6. Neches River National Wildlife Refuge
WILD RIVERFRONT SANCTUARY
Neches River National Wildlife Refuge protects a pristine stretch of the Neches River, with peaceful access points for kayaking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can paddle along scenic riverbanks, observe birds and native wildlife, and enjoy the natural tranquility of the refuge. Its unique riverside setting offers a memorable escape into the wild heart of East Texas.
7. Fort Boggy State Park
LAKE AND WOODLAND OASIS
Fort Boggy State Park features a spring-fed lake with a sandy swimming area, fishing, kayaking, and wooded trails about an hour southwest of Jacksonville. The park's centerpiece is its calm lake, surrounded by forest and offering a quiet atmosphere perfect for relaxation and wildlife spotting. The combination of lakeside recreation and serene woodland charm makes it a beloved getaway.
8. Rusk KOA Lake
LAKESIDE CAMPGROUND FUN
Rusk KOA offers a private lake for swimming, fishing, and paddle-boating within a family-friendly campground south of Jacksonville. Set amid Piney Woods, the lake provides a laid-back beach experience with amenities like picnic tables and rental cabins. Its combination of campground comforts and lakeside relaxation appeals to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
9. Lufkin KOA Lake
RELAXED WATERSIDE GETAWAY
The Lufkin KOA features a peaceful private lake for swimming, fishing, and paddlecraft in a quiet, shaded campground setting. Travelers enjoy the easygoing atmosphere, well-kept facilities, and convenient access to the water. This relaxed lakeside destination is ideal for those seeking a simple, nature-oriented retreat.
10. Love's Lookout Scenic Park
PANORAMIC VALLEY VIEWS
Love's Lookout Scenic Park sits on a high ridge east of Jacksonville, offering dramatic views over a broad valley and glimpses of distant lakes and rivers. Visitors enjoy walking paths, picnic arbors, and the peaceful ambiance created by sweeping natural vistas. Although it's not a swimming destination, the park's unique appeal lies in its breathtaking outlooks and relaxing picnic atmosphere.
Jacksonville Things To Do
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