Set in the piney woods between Dallas and Shreveport, this popular park features nearly 1,000 wooded acres, a 64-acre lake, and more than 13 miles of hiking trails, mountain biking trails, and nature trails. On the water, try swimming, paddling, boating, or fishing for bass, catfish, and crappie. Amenities include a boat ramp, three fishing piers, a bathhouse, and a swimming area. The park is also home to historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) buildings, lovely picnic areas, plenty of wildlife, and ranger-led programs. Several campgrounds offer more than 120 sites for campers, including tent camping sites, full hookup RV sites, cabins, and screened shelters.

• Best for lake views: The aptly named Lakeview Camping Area offers sites right on the lakeshore.
• Best for RVs: The Big Pine Trailer Area is only for motorhomes, providing water, sewage, 50-amp electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings.
• Best for comfort: Six cabins offer beds, air-conditioning, heat, a microwave, and a refrigerator, but no bathrooms, full kitchens, or linens.

1. During peak season, plan to make a reservation as soon as you know your dates. Campsites, cabins, and screened shelters can be reserved up to five months in advance. 
2. If your plans are flexible, try to visit during the week, during non-holiday periods, or over winter. The park is open year-round.
3. If you don’t have an advance reservation, arrive at the park first thing in the morning for a chance at any unreserved spots.

The park is busiest from March to Thanksgiving. Spring is a great time to view wildflowers and flowering trees, while fall brings good leaf-peeping. Spring and fall are also when you might spot migrating birds. Winters are mild and short here, making it an uncrowded time to visit. Campsites require two-night reservations for weekends and three nights for Labor Day and Memorial Day weekends. Boat rentals are available year-round, but not on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from Labor Day to Memorial Day.

• The park store rents canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, bike boats, and johnboats, and sells snacks, gifts, toys, camping supplies, and fishing supplies.
• There’s a 5 mph speed limit for motor boats. Fishing licenses are not required if fishing from shore, though they are required if fishing from a boat. Fishing gear loans are available.
• Bring your binoculars for birdwatching, as more than 200 species of birds have been spotted in the park.
• Pets are allowed but not in the Creekside Camping Area or any park buildings, including cabins and screened shelters.