Prairie Branch Campground

Hit up Huntsville State Park for 21 miles of scenic riding trails through ancient East Texas piney woods. The Triple C Trail is your longest route at 8.5 miles, but if you’re in for a longer ride, you can easily combine multiple trails within the park. The 6.8 mile Chinquapin Trail, which circles the entire lake, meets Triple C near the amphitheatre and nature center. You’ll find parking there, as well!

For those with leisure in mind, boating on Raven Lake in Huntsville State Park is the ideal situation. Motorized boats are permitted on the 210-acre basin, but be sure to keep it to idle speeds. Along with summer swimmers, look out for the local alligators that make Raven Lake’s waters their home! You can read the alligator safety tips document here.

Huntsville State Park has everything you need and more to enjoy a relaxing weekend of fishing at Raven Lake. From the boat ramp to the fishing piers to the cleaning stations, you’re completely set up. And as you fish for bass, catfish, and crappie, be on the lookout for alligators! If you want more information on alligator safety, check out these tips.

Whether you’re in for an epic journey or casual hike, the trails at Huntsville State Park are the perfect getaway. Choose from quick, under-two-mile trails, such as the Prairie Branch Loop, or longer routes like Chinquapin Trail at 6.8 miles. The Triple Trail clocks in at 8.5 miles and takes approximately four hours to complete. It even has a primitive campsite for those who need an overnight backpacking trip to escape city life!

The multi-use trails at Huntsville State Park are excellent for equestrian use because of their lengthy mileage and beautiful scenery. It’s easy to get a full day’s worth of riding in by combining the Triple C Trail and Chinquapin Trail, which total at 15.3 miles. But for a quick jaunt, the shady trees of the Dogwood Trail make for a refreshing natural experience.

The calm waters and shady trees a Huntsville State Park make for a perfect weekend of kayaking and canoeing. Raven Lake has 210 acres to explore by paddle and even offers rentals for those who don’t have their own floatation devices. A provided boat ramp serves as an ideal put-in, so there’s no need to scout your own. And when you’re out relaxing in the summer sun, keep an eye out for the alligators who live within the park. Alligator safety tips are available to touch up your local knowledge.

Take a refreshing dip in Rave Lake during those never-ending dog days of summer. The water’s cool, the waves are minimal, and the sun is almost always shining. The designated swimming area is open daily and year-round from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., but has no lifeguard on duty, so jump in at your own risk.

Spend a few days in Huntsville State Park and you’re sure to spot a few of the lesser-seen wildlife species of the south. The bald eagle and alligator both make their home within the park, so keep your eyes peeled to both land and sea for a sighting. Over 250 bird species have been spotted, as well, so maybe bring those binoculars along, too!