As the temperatures rise and school bells ring their final goodbyes, families in East Texas are gearing up for a summer filled with endless possibilities.
In our vibrant region of the state, where the Piney Woods meet the sprawling lakes, opportunities for family fun are as abundant as the warm, sunny days. Whether you’re seeking adventurous outdoor escapades or culturally enriching experiences or simply looking for ways to keep the kids entertained, East Texas has an array of activities that promise to make this summer an unforgettable one for the whole family.
Atkinson Candy Co., Lufkin
What kid (and parent) doesn’t like candy? Nestled in the heart of Lufkin, Atkinson Candy Co. stands as a sweet testament to the timeless art of candy-making.
Established in 1932 by B.E. Atkinson, this family-owned confectionery has become a beloved institution renowned for its inventive treats. Among their illustrious creations, the Chick-O-Stick and Mary Jane candies have etched themselves into the annals of American candy history. The Chick-O-Stick, with its crunchy peanut butter and toasted coconut exterior, has delighted taste buds for decades, offering a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.
One of the most popular brands produced by Atkinson’s is the Chick-O-Stick, a blend of toasted coconut and peanut butter. While American tastes have changed over the past century, their love for Atkinson’s Mary Jane candy hasn’t—and neither has the logo.
A worker at the Atkinson factory in Lufkin prepares the chewy molasses used in their famous Mary Jane candies.
The Mary Jane candy—originally introduced in 1914—has endured as a classic, with its molasses and peanut butter filling encased in a taffy-like consistency.
What sets Atkinson Candy Co. apart is not just their delectable offerings but also their commitment to tradition and quality. For over 90 years, this candy haven has embraced the artistry of handcrafting sweets, preserving the authenticity and charm that defines their creations.
Today, visitors can take a step back in time by touring Atkinson Candy Co., witnessing the magic behind the making of these iconic treats and gaining insight into a legacy that continues to sweeten the lives of generations. Atkinson Candy Co. stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of artisanal craftsmanship in the world of confectionery, proving that some traditions are simply too sweet to be forgotten.
While you’re visiting the factory, you can stop at the Atkinson Candy Store, where you can purchase goodies individually or in bulk.
Lake Livingston State Park
Located on the southeast shore of Lake Livingston, the state’s second-largest reservoir, Lake Livingston State Park is a summer haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As the mercury rises, the park transforms into a playground of recreational opportunities, offering a myriad of activities to keep visitors of all ages entertained.
Boasting more than 600 acres of Piney Woods, the park invites families to embark on numerous picturesque hiking trails that wind through the lush forest, providing a serene escape into nature. Some of the trails are short, so kids won’t have the chance to say, “Are we done yet?”
For those seeking aquatic adventures, the sprawling lake offers a refreshing retreat. Visitors can indulge in a day of fishing, casting their lines into the waters known for abundant catfish, bass and crappie. Kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts can paddle along the lake’s tranquil land-protected lagoon, while swimmers can bask in the sunshine at the designated swimming area.
The park also features well-maintained picnic areas, perfect for a lakeside lunch or an evening barbecue with family and friends. With its diverse offerings and photo-worthy sunsets, Lake Livingston State Park stands as a summer sanctuary, inviting all who venture there to create lasting memories amidst the natural beauty of East Texas.
The shallow lagoon at Lake Livingston State Park is perfect for a summer swim for kids, as well as for kayaking or simply floating around the beautiful landscape.
The entrance to Lake Livingston State Park is well-marked for visitors, as are all of the trails inside.
Caddo Lake
Caddo Lake, a mesmerizing labyrinth of bayous, cypress swamps and towering bald cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, is a captivating destination for summer adventures. Located on the Texas-Louisiana border, this unique lake offers endless endeavors for those seeking an immersive experience in nature. Paddling enthusiasts can navigate the meandering waterways by canoe or kayak—venturing into the enchanting Bald Cypress Bayou—where the tranquil ambiance is interrupted only by the occasional splash of a resident alligator or the haunting call of a barred owl.
Fishing enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, as Caddo Lake is renowned for its diverse aquatic life, including bass, catfish and crappie. The lake’s scenic beauty provides the perfect backdrop for a leisurely day of fishing, surrounded by the vibrant flora and fauna that make this East Texas gem so unique.
For those seeking a more laid-back experience, Caddo Lake State Park offers hiking trails that wind through the towering cypress trees, providing opportunities for bird watching and glimpses of the diverse wildlife that call this ecosystem home. Whether it’s a serene boat ride, an angler’s retreat or a peaceful hike, Caddo Lake beckons with its natural wonders, promising an unforgettable summer escape in the heart of the East Texas wilderness.
Sunrise at Caddo Lake can be almost a “religious” experience.
Johnson’s Rock Shop
Johnson’s Rock Shop, hidden in the Piney Woods about 10 miles east of Livingston, in Indian Springs, is literally hidden in the trees. Not only is it a gem of a find, but it’s also home to thousands of actual gems.
Johnson’s Rock Shop hosts thousands of visitors every year, and it has been doing so for the past 40 years, but visitors may need to use their GPS since it can be difficult to find.
While the Johnson family is the heart of the operation, the real stars are the rare rocks and gems from all over the world.
Almost filling up an antique clawfoot tub, these multi-colored gems can be purchased by the bagful at Johnson’s Rock Shop.
These stalagmites can be found throughout Johnson’s Rock Shop.
The main walkway at Johnson’s Rock Shop east of Livingston provides easy access to a dozen separate buildings.
“We have one of the biggest collections and varieties of petrified palm wood in the world,” Stephen Johnson said. “Much of the palm wood is between 50 and 60 million years old. People come here not only to see the large pieces, most of which were brought in by logging trucks, but also the smaller pieces to take home and put in their yard or garden. Imagine having a 50 million-year-old piece of history in your front yard.”
The venue consists of about a dozen small buildings, each one containing different types of gems. The main shop is where most of the precious gemstones and jewelry reside. Visitors can see and purchase virtually any size, shape or color of stones that are already handcrafted into rings, necklaces, bracelets and pendants. The price for much of the merchandise is far less than you would pay in any jewelry store. They are handmade with love that can only come from a family that has been doing this for nearly a half-century.
One of the most popular items with the hundreds of children who visit each year are geodes. The shop features large bins of geodes that kids can pick out and have cut by Stephen. They never know what’s inside until it’s sliced open.
“Geode is an old Greek word for ‘earthlike.’ You don’t know what’s inside,” Johnson said. “If it is a round rock, and it weighs less than another of the same size, chances are it’s hollow and filled with crystals, like amethyst. The solid round stones are called agates and can be cut and polished into big slabs or small right in front of your eyes, using a water-saw.”
Naranjo Museum of Natural History
Most major museums are run by either cities or charitable institutions, but just south of Lufkin lies one of the nation’s best dinosaur museums, developed and operated by the man who discovered the dinosaur remains himself.
World-renowned paleontologist and archeologist Neal Naranjo opened the museum in 2012 and has seen tens of thousands of visitors from all over the globe in the ensuing years.
“We were on a dig in Montana when we first started finding pieces of a Hadrosaur,” Naranjo said. “It’s a very slow and tedious process, all done by hand, slowly scraping away millions of years of fossilized clay, all the while being careful not to break any pieces. This one was particularly exciting because we found a femur, then another, then a rib, and eventually the whole skeleton.”
Another exhibit that children seem to be drawn to is one that shows the Carboniferous Period. It was during this time that giant dragonflies, centipedes and cockroaches roamed the earth. “If you think today’s cockroaches are scary, just imagine a flying one about a foot long,” Naranjo said. “The oxygen levels were so high during that period that everything was substantially bigger. Some of the dragonflies were the size of eagles and centipedes the size of dogs.”
There is also a woolly mammoth on display and a saber-toothed tiger, both of which became extinct about 10,000 years ago.
Naranjo Museum also includes a collection of pottery and coins from thousands of years ago. Coins that were used during the time of Jesus are displayed mere inches from visitors, as are water jugs from the time of Moses.
If kids are more interested in recent things, there is a display of moon rocks from one of the Apollo missions, along with a NASA spacesuit donated by an astronaut.
One of the dinosaurs that greets you upon entrance to the Naranjo Museum in Lufkin is this ferocious-looking Hadrosaur.
Ellen Trout Zoo, Lufkin
As one of the only public zoos in East Texas, you can embark on a wild adventure in the heart of Lufkin at the Ellen Trout Zoo, a captivating haven that spans 35 acres.
Established in 1967, this public zoo stands as a testament to the vision of its namesake, Ellen Trout, a local business luminary and philanthropist who generously kickstarted its creation.
The zoo beckons visitors into a realm of biodiversity with its diverse range of exhibits. These meticulously crafted showcases transport guests around the globe, offering a glimpse into the natural habitats of many interesting species. Visitors can wander through the immersive displays, where each enclosure is a carefully designed haven for the animals, allowing them to thrive in environments mirroring their natural homes.
Beyond its role as a fascinating attraction, the Ellen Trout Zoo is a dedicated player in the global conservation arena. Following the ethos of most modern zoos, it actively engages in conservation and education initiatives. From breeding programs for endangered species to cutting-edge research endeavors, the zoo takes strides in contributing to the broader tapestry of wildlife preservation. Public awareness campaigns serve as a beacon, enlightening visitors on the importance of safeguarding our planet’s precious biodiversity.
Throughout the year, the Ellen Trout Zoo transforms into a vibrant tapestry of events, exhibits and attractions. These carefully curated experiences aim to not only captivate visitors but also instill a sense of wonder and appreciation for the incredible creatures that share our planet.
The Ellen Trout Zoo in Lufkin has a plethora of animals not usually seen in East Texas, such as a hippo, giraffe and rhino.
The Ellen Trout Zoo in Lufkin has a plethora of animals not usually seen in East Texas, such as a hippo, giraffe and rhino.
Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari, Jacksonville
Nestled within the enchanting embrace of the verdant Piney Woods of East Texas, just 12 miles east of Jacksonville, the Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari unfolds as a captivating wildlife sanctuary.
This sprawling 300-acre preserve is a haven for an extraordinary array of exotic and endangered species, seamlessly thriving in an expansive open habitat reminiscent of their native territories.
Embark on an immersive journey at your own pace as you traverse the undulating hills and expansive savannahs during a self-guided drive through this awe-inspiring landscape. Your vehicle becomes a portal to a whole different world, where the natural environment unfolds along miles of winding roads, offering glimpses into the fascinating lives of the resident creatures.
From the comfort of your own vehicle, embrace the opportunity to observe and capture the beauty of over two dozen magnificent species. Picture yourself marveling at the majestic sight of a Watusi—African longhorn cow—mother and calf leisurely grazing near a crystal-clear, spring-fed pond, or be captivated by the elegant spectacle of the blackbuck—Indian antelope—gracefully springing across an expansive open field.
The safari’s diverse animal kingdom includes the enchanting presence of African crested porcupines, aoudad sheep, bison, capybara, eland, camels, emu, African lechwe, llama, kangaroos, Rocky Mountain elk, Scottish running ducks, water buffalo, wildebeest, zebras and yak. Each encounter is a snapshot into the mesmerizing tapestry of wildlife, offering an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
Immerse yourself in the symphony of sights and sounds as you explore the Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari, where the harmony between nature and wildlife creates an unparalleled adventure.
Wherever your summer travels take you, remember the plethora of things to see right in our own backyard.
At the Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari in Jacksonville, zebras and other animals can walk right up to your car window.
