If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or a place to gather with family, then Daingerfield State Park may be the right place for you. Spend time amongst the trees at this northeast Texas state park.
Camping
Dogwood Camping Area
During our time at Daingerfield State Park, we camped in the Dogwood camping area. With 18 full hook up sites, you won’t feel crowded in this loop. There are plenty of trees between the sites to add to the woodsy feel you get here. All of the sites are back in, but they aren’t the longest sites you’ll find. If you’re making reservations in this area, be sure to look at the length of your site before booking. All of the sites are paved and wide enough for any camper. We enjoyed our weekend here in Dogwood.
Big Pine Camping Area
If you’re looking for a site with a little more length, I’d recommend the Big Pine Camping area. This loop has 10 full hook up sites. All are pull through, but not all are equal. The sites on the lake side (6-10) were more level. That’s not to say that sites 1-5 aren’t great. I’d be more than happy to stay in any of these sites, but if you have your pick I’d go for the ones on the lake side. See map for more detail. We actually tried to camp in this loop, but they were already booked up. So, if you want to stay at Big Pine, I’d make a reservation.
This state park also has the Mountain View camping area that is very similar to Dogwood. It has full hook ups and back in sites. Cedar Ridge camping loop has water ONLY and is more of a tent camping area. We weren’t able to go over and take a look at either of these areas, but I have a feeling they are just as nice as the camping areas we did see.
Around the Lake
Hiking the Rustling Leaves Trail
With only two trails, Daingerfield State Park is limited on hiking. The Rustling Leaves Trail is a great hike that you should take advantage of while you are at this state park. This is a 2.4 mile trail that travels around the lake. You will get a glimpse of everything in the park from this trail. The trails map states that this trail is EASY. While it wasn’t a difficult hike, I’m not sure easy is the best label either. There are slight elevation changes and we had to climb over a fallen tree in the middle of the trail. Depending on your skill level, I think it would be easy for some, but don’t go on this trail thinking it is going to be a breeze.
We did enjoy meeting a little friend on our hike who was hiding amongst the leaves. This snake caught us by surprise, but we always enjoy seeing native animals on the trail.
Playground
If you are hiking along the Rustling Leaves Trail, you’ll eventually come to the main area which includes the playground. It’s always hit or miss with playgrounds for us. This one included two swing sets. It’s hard to call it a playground in my opinion, but if you’re really into swinging you’ll love it. They did have both child and baby swings which is always nice. They also had picnic tables all around the area so it would make a great spot for a picnic lunch. We were visited by two ducks while swinging. You could tell they were used to humans being there and were definitely looking for a hand out. Bring some little treats with you if you like feeding the ducks. I guess that’s aloud. Might want to check with the ranger first.
Swimming Area with Platform
The crown jewel of Daingerfield…the swimming platform. Who needs a giant playground when the swimming area is right next door. This was our daughters favorite part of our time here. It doesn’t hurt that she LOVES swimming. I’d say she’s a little biased. The state park has done well in making this area really nice. There are picnic tables and an area to lay your towel down and catch some zzzz. There is also a bathroom close by which is always a bonus. Bring your water toys and enjoy the lake.
So Much to Offer
While not a large state park, it’s a great one. They offer something for everyone. Whether you’re single OR wanting to get together a large group, this park can accommodate you. They have a group hall with a kitchen and bathroom you can rent out for large groups. They also have a lodge for those large groups. You could make a weekend out of it with your whole family. Call you Aunt that you haven’t seen in 20 years and plan that family reunion. If that’s a little too much for you, grab some friends and rent out one of the cabins. Whatever you want to do and whoever you want to be with, Daingerfield is a great spot to gather and enjoy the outdoors.
Consider the Wonders is not affiliated with Daingerfield State Park, Texas State Parks, or Texas Parks and Wildlife.
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