Azalea Gardens & Historic Trails in Nacogdoches
Tips on renting in Nacogdoches
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Welcome to Nacogdoches, Texas, where families can immerse themselves in the captivating history of the oldest town in the Lone Star State. Stroll through the enchanting downtown streets, where distinctive boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries await, offering the perfect opportunity to discover a memorable keepsake. Be sure to visit the picturesque Sterne-Hoya House Museum & Library, a stunningly preserved residence that tells the story of the region’s earliest settlers.
For those who love the outdoors, Nacogdoches presents an array of family-friendly adventures. Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the scenic 7-mile Lanana Creek Trail, which meanders through lush forests and follows the tranquil Lanana Creek. The Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden, nestled on the campus of Stephen F. Austin State University, is a true gem. Spanning eight acres, this garden features the largest collection of azaleas in Texas, with more than 7,000 azaleas, camellias, and Japanese maples enhancing its picturesque pathways.
When it’s time to unwind, visit Splash Kingdom Family Water Park, where families can delight in an array of slides, pools, and splash zones, all set in a vibrant and welcoming environment. Whether you crave adventure or prefer to relax in a shaded cabana, it’s the ultimate retreat from the Texas sun. For a taste of local flavor, time your visit to coincide with the Texas Blueberry Festival each June, where the town comes alive with live music, delicious food, and festive activities for all ages—a cherished tradition that draws families back year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Nacogdoches has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden, nestled within the campus of Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas, is a verdant gem that stands out as the largest azalea garden in the state. This 11-acre oasis, transformed from a former loblolly pine forest, boasts over 8,500 taxa of flowering plants, ornamental trees, and shrubs, and features a captivating cascading weeping baldcypress tunnel and a bridge over Lanana Creek. Open daily from dawn to dusk and free to visit, it offers 1.25 miles of accessible trails, making it a must-see during the peak bloom seasons from March to May for azaleas and October to February for camellias.
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For a seamless boat launch experience at Lake Nacogdoches, head to the East Side Park or Westside Park, both offering well-maintained facilities. East Side Park features a one-lane boat ramp with courtesy docks and ample parking, while Westside Park boasts a two-lane ramp that can accommodate all boat types. Both parks are accessible 24/7 and provide additional amenities like picnic areas, swimming spots, and restrooms.
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For a seamless blend of water activities and leisure, head to Lake Nacogdoches, where both the East Side Park and West Side Park offer boat ramps and swimming areas. These parks also feature picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms, making them ideal for a family day out or an adventurous weekend. Additionally, Lake Naconiche, though primarily known for its fishing and scuba diving, also has a swimming area and accessible fishing piers, enhancing your outdoor experience in the Nacogdoches area.
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Near Nacogdoches, top hiking trails include the Lanana Creek Trail, a 7.1-mile recreational path that winds through dense forests and along a tranquil creek, offering access points at the Clint Dempsey Soccer Complex and Jimmy Hinds Park. The SFA Recreational Trails and Garden, spanning 68 acres, provide shaded trails perfect for biking, running, or walking. For a more extensive adventure, the Boykin Springs recreational area features the 5-mile Sawmill Hiking Trail in the Angelina National Forest, suitable for all skill levels and best explored in early autumn.
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For a relaxing hike in Nacogdoches, the Lanana Creek Trail is a standout, offering a peaceful 7-mile route that winds through dense forests, past the SFA Gardens, and along a tranquil creek. This trail, accessible from various points including the Clint Dempsey Soccer Complex and Jimmy Hinds Park, is ideal for a leisurely walk or bike ride, though areas south of Starr Avenue may be more challenging due to natural terrain. Another option is the SFA Recreational Trails and Garden, a 68-acre forest with miles of shaded trails perfect for hiking, biking, or walking, located between Starr Avenue and College Street.