Discover 10 Hidden Gems Around Lake Livingston — Summer Adventures in East Texas
Lake Livingston is one of the largest lakes in Texas—and while its open water, boating, and fishing are well known, there’s a lot more tucked away nearby. This summer, whether you’re staying in Onalaska, Livingston, or just passing through from Cleveland, Lufkin, or Huntsville, check out these lesser-known East Texas treasures worth exploring.
Here are 10 hidden gems near Lake Livingston to add to your summer bucket list.
🌿 1. Lake Livingston State Park — Back Trails & Birdwatching Spots
Yes, it’s popular—but most visitors miss the back trails, quiet birding blinds, and secret shoreline spots where you’ll often have nature all to yourself. Pack bug spray and head out early for a peaceful morning.
📍 300 Park Rd 65, Livingston, TX
☕ 2. Camp Cho-Yeh’s Front Porch Coffee Shop (Public Welcome!)
Hidden inside a youth camp near Livingston is a charming little coffee shop open to the public. Locals love it for the calm atmosphere, great drinks, and outdoor seating under the pine trees.
📍 2200 S Washington Ave, Livingston, TX
🛶 3. Tigerville Park — Kayaking Launch Spot
Not far from Onalaska, this small but scenic park is one of the best quiet water access points for paddleboarding or kayaking without the crowds.
📍 Tigerville Park, Polk County side of Lake Livingston
🌾 4. Tempe Creek Vineyard & Farm — Wine + Weekend Events
Nestled in Livingston, this working vineyard offers wine tastings, live music nights, and beautiful views. It’s perfect for a relaxing summer evening with friends or a romantic escape.
📍 307 Dickens Ranch Rd, Livingston, TX
🧊 5. Snackshire — Lord of the Rings-Themed Snow Cone Trailer
A local favorite near the Texas Craft Fair grounds, this Middle Earth-inspired snow cone stand is a refreshing, whimsical stop for families and fantasy fans alike.
📍 Check Facebook for current hours and location (Livingston area)
🛍️ 6. Texas Craft Fair Weekends
Held at 3300 US-190 West in Livingston, this venue offers rotating flea markets, seasonal events, and live entertainment like wrestling and haunted woods. A growing local hub for crafts, food trucks, and family fun.
🗓️ See the schedule: www.texascraftfair.com/shop
📚 7. Good Golly Miss Molly’s — Vintage & Bookstore Blend
Located in downtown Livingston, this quaint shop mixes vintage decor, books, and gifts in a way that feels like stepping into another era. Perfect for a rainy day browse.
📍 406 N Washington Ave, Livingston, TX
🌄 8. Double Lake Recreation Area — Nearby National Forest Camping
Just a bit southeast in Coldspring, this spot in Sam Houston National Forest is a quiet alternative to bigger campgrounds and is rarely crowded.
📍 Double Lake, San Jacinto County
🎨 9. Legacy Outfitters Artisan Studio
A newer hidden gem in the area offering leatherwork, custom wood signs, and handmade décor. Often vending at markets, but also open by appointment.
📍 Check for hours via Facebook or at Texas Craft Fair events
🐐 10. Goat Yoga & Farm Days (Seasonal Pop-Ups)
Several small farms around the Lake Livingston area now offer goat yoga sessions, petting zoos, and seasonal u-pick berries or flowers. Look for announcements from local farms like The Fancy Fox or nearby farmsteads.
🧭 Explore East Texas Beyond the Water
While Lake Livingston offers plenty of splash-worthy fun, don’t miss the unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences that make this part of East Texas so memorable. From cozy cafés and fantasy snow cones to quiet hiking trails and hidden artisan vendors, there’s more than meets the eye.
For more local tips, market info, and summer happenings, visit www.onalaskatexas.com.
