Lake Livingston State Park, located near the city of Livingston, Texas, is a sprawling outdoor haven centered around one of the largest lakes in the state. With over 35,000 acres of water and surrounding forest, the park offers an ideal blend of boating, fishing, hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. It is a favorite destination for families, anglers, boaters, and nature lovers seeking a refreshing lakeside escape in East Texas.
The park’s well-maintained facilities include boat ramps, picnic areas, hiking trails, and comfortable campsites with stunning lake views. Whether you want to spend a relaxing day on the water, explore forested trails, or camp under the stars, Lake Livingston State Park provides a versatile and scenic environment to enjoy Texas’s natural beauty year-round.
Why Visit Lake Livingston State Park?
Lake Livingston State Park offers a dynamic mix of water-based recreation and peaceful woodland exploration, making it one of the most versatile outdoor destinations in East Texas. Nestled along the shores of Lake Livingston, the park gives visitors direct access to one of the largest reservoirs in Texas, offering endless opportunities for boating, kayaking, jet skiing, and fishing.
What sets this park apart is the balance between lakeside adventure and forested escape. You can cast a line for catfish or largemouth bass in the morning, hike through pine and oak woodlands in the afternoon, and relax at a shaded campsite by evening. The park features well-maintained hiking trails, ample picnic shelters, wildlife observation areas, and a nature center with educational displays.
The best time to visit is during spring and fall, when temperatures are mild, wildflowers bloom, and bird activity peaks. This park is perfect for families, photographers, solo travelers, paddlers, anglers, and RV campers looking for a mix of action and serenity.
Top Things to Do at Lake Livingston State Park
1. Boating and Fishing on Lake Livingston
With over 450 miles of shoreline and open water stretching across 35,000 acres, Lake Livingston is a paradise for boating and fishing enthusiasts. The park provides multiple boat ramps for easy lake access and open water suitable for motorboats, pontoons, kayaks, and canoes. Anglers can reel in catfish, white bass, and crappie year-round.
Reason to Visit: One of the largest lakes in Texas for endless fishing and boating opportunities
Entry Fee: Included with park entry; fishing license required unless fishing from shore within the park
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for active fish and calmer waters
For More Info: Visit Website
2. Hiking the Katy Trail Loop
This family-friendly trail system features short, shaded loops through the park’s forested areas. The Katy Trail Loop is about 1 mile and connects to other scenic trails, offering a great way to enjoy the park’s birdlife, native plants, and peaceful pine-oak woods.
Reason to Visit: Easy, scenic walking suitable for all ages and fitness levels
Entry Fee: Included with park entry
Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers; fall for leaf color and fewer bugs
For More Info: Visit Website
3. Camping with Lake Views
The park features premium campsites with water, electricity, and even full hookups—many of which are located near the lake. Tent camping, screened shelters, and group sites are also available. The setting is peaceful, and sites are shaded by tall pines with access to modern restrooms and picnic tables.
Reason to Visit: Relaxing overnight stays just steps from water, trails, and boat ramps
Entry Fee: $15–$30 per night + $5 daily entry per adult
Best Time to Visit: Fall and spring for cool nights and fewer insects
For More Info: Visit Website
4. Birdwatching and Wildlife Observation
Lake Livingston State Park is home to hundreds of bird species, especially during migration seasons. Look for bald eagles, herons, osprey, and colorful songbirds. The lake, shoreline, and forested habitats also support deer, raccoons, and turtles, offering plenty of wildlife-viewing opportunities.
Reason to Visit: Prime birding location with diverse ecosystems and viewing platforms
Entry Fee: Included with park entry
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall migrations
For More Info: Visit Website
5. Picnicking and Nature Photography
The park offers picnic areas with lake views, shade shelters, and BBQ grills perfect for a relaxing lunch with friends or family. The mix of woodland trails, open lake scenes, and wildlife makes the park a haven for nature photographers.
Reason to Visit: Enjoy a scenic meal or capture unforgettable moments in nature
Entry Fee: Included with park entry
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for soft light and wildlife activity
For More Info: Visit Website
Best Time to Visit
Lake Livingston State Park is a year-round destination, but spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the most pleasant conditions for outdoor recreation. During these seasons, visitors enjoy mild weather, fewer bugs, vibrant natural scenery, and optimal conditions for fishing, hiking, and camping.
Spring (March to May)
Spring brings blooming wildflowers, mild temperatures (60s–80s °F), and active wildlife. It’s a top season for fishing, as bass and catfish become more active. Birdwatching is also excellent, with many migratory species passing through.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is peak season for swimming, boating, and paddling, but expect high humidity and temperatures often above 90°F. Mosquitoes and biting insects are more common, especially in the evening, so come prepared with repellents and sun protection. Early mornings and evenings are best for hiking and shoreline fishing.
Fall (September to November)
Fall is one of the best times to visit. With temperatures in the 60s to 70s °F and fewer crowds, this season is ideal for camping, hiking, and photography. Bird migration continues, and fish remain active in cooler waters.
Winter (December to February)
Winters are generally mild (40s–60s °F), making it a quiet time for camping, birdwatching, and photography. Trails are peaceful, and the lake’s stillness offers a different kind of beauty. Layered clothing is recommended, especially at night.
High vs. Off Season
High Season: Spring and fall for mild weather and peak recreation
Off Season: Summer (hot and buggy) and winter (cool but quiet and scenic)
Directions and Parking Info
Lake Livingston State Park is located just west of the city of Livingston, Texas, and is easily accessible from major East Texas cities, including Houston, Beaumont, and Huntsville. The park entrance is well-marked and leads to a network of paved roads with signage to all major facilities.
From Houston
Take I-69/US-59 N toward Livingston. Exit onto TX-393 Loop N, then turn onto State Park Rd 65.
Drive Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
From Beaumont
Take US-96 N to US-190 W. Continue to Livingston, then turn west on State Park Rd 65.
Drive Time: About 1.5 hours
From Huntsville
Take TX-19 N to US-190 E, then turn onto State Park Rd 65 before entering Livingston.
Drive Time: Roughly 45 minutes
Parking Areas
Main Day-Use Parking: Near the picnic area and lakefront
Boat Ramp Parking: Located at multiple lake access points
Trailhead Parking: Available at various trail loops including the Katy Trail
Campsite Parking: Each site has its own dedicated space
Overflow Parking: Open on busy weekends and holidays
Additional Tips
Arrive early on weekends and holidays to secure a prime spot, especially at the lakefront or boat ramps
Parking is included in the entry fee—no additional charge
All parking areas are paved and accessible for passenger vehicles, RVs, and trailers
Use park maps or ask the entrance staff for directions to your chosen activity area
Entry Fees, Passes & Reservations
Lake Livingston State Park offers affordable and flexible access for both day visitors and overnight guests. Whether you’re planning a quick lakeside outing or a weekend camping trip, it’s easy to reserve your spot and enjoy the park’s amenities.
Day Use Fees
Adults (13 and older): $5 per person per day
Children (12 and under): Free
Texas State Parks Pass: Valid for unlimited free entry for passholders and everyone in the same vehicle
Camping Fees
Water-Only Tent Sites: $15 per night
Sites with Water & Electricity: $20–$25 per night
Full Hookup RV Sites (water/electric/sewer): $30 per night
Screened Shelters and Group Sites: Available; pricing varies by type and size
Most sites include picnic tables, fire rings, grills, and nearby restrooms with showers
Reservations
Campsites and shelters: Highly recommended, especially on weekends, holidays, and during spring/fall
Reserve Online: Texas State Parks Reservation System
Same-Day Passes: May be available during off-peak times but not guaranteed
Hours of Operation
Daily: 6 AM to 10 PM
Camping Check-In: 2 PM
Check-Out: 12 PM (noon)
The park is open year-round; occasional closures may occur due to flooding or severe weather
Where to Stay Nearby
1. Lake Livingston State Park Cabins – Lakeside Retreat in the Park
The park offers screened shelters and mini-cabins just steps from the lake, perfect for visitors who want to enjoy nature without pitching a tent. These rustic shelters provide roofed lodging with electricity, fans, picnic tables, and access to restrooms and showers nearby.
Price Range: $30–$50 per night
Amenities: Electricity, ceiling fans, lake proximity, shared restrooms
Rating: 4.6 stars
Parking: Adjacent parking for each shelter
For More Info: Visit Website
2. Lake Livingston RV Park – Full Hookups & Easy Access
Located just outside the park entrance, this full-service RV park offers pull-through sites, Wi-Fi, laundry, and shaded spaces with picnic areas. It’s an excellent base for RV travelers wanting full hookups and a quieter stay close to the lake and forest.
Address: 4400 US-59 Loop N, Livingston, TX 77351
Phone: (936) 328-5253
Price Range: $40–$60 per night
Rating: 4.3 stars
Parking: Full hookups and ample space for RVs and tow vehicles
For More Info: Visit Website
3. Best Western Plus Livingston Inn & Suites – Hotel Comfort Nearby
For guests who prefer traditional accommodations, this hotel in Livingston offers comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, a pool, and free Wi-Fi. It’s a great option for families or groups looking to explore the park by day and return to modern amenities by night.
Address: 335 TX-59 Loop S, Livingston, TX 77351
Phone: (936) 327-8880
Price Range: $110–$140 per night
Rating: 4.4 stars
Parking: Free on-site parking for guests
For More Info: Visit Website
Food & Drinks Nearby
1. The Landing Bar & Grill – Lakeside Dining with a View
Located right on Lake Livingston, The Landing Bar & Grill offers American classics, fresh seafood, and a wide selection of burgers, all served with scenic water views. The casual outdoor patio and boat-up access make it a favorite stop for hungry boaters and park visitors.
Address: 110 W Church St, Onalaska, TX 77360
Hours: Wednesday–Sunday: 11 AM – 9 PM
Pricing: $12–$25 per person
Distance from Park: ~20 minutes
For More Info: Visit Website
2. Diamondback’s Bar & Grill – Steaks & Texas Comfort Food
A top choice in Livingston, Diamondback’s offers hearty Texas-style steaks, BBQ plates, chicken-fried favorites, and house specials in a family-friendly environment. Their generous portions and rustic ambiance make it a popular post-hike stop.
Address: 126 US-59 Loop S, Livingston, TX 77351
Hours: Monday–Saturday: 11 AM – 9 PM
Pricing: $10–$30 per person
Distance from Park: ~10 minutes
For More Info: Visit Website
3. Silverado Grill & Saloon – Burgers & Live Music
This Western-themed saloon in Livingston serves burgers, wings, and southern-style dishes with a side of live entertainment. It’s a relaxed place to enjoy dinner, especially on weekends when local bands often perform.
Address: 101 N Houston Ave, Livingston, TX 77351
Hours: Thursday–Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM
Pricing: $10–$25 per person
Distance from Park: ~10 minutes
For More Info: Visit Website
Local Tips for Visiting
Reserve campsites and shelters early, especially during spring and fall weekends, as the park fills up quickly.
Bring bug spray, especially during the summer months when mosquitoes and biting insects are more active.
Fishing from shore inside the park does not require a license, but boating anglers must carry a valid Texas fishing license.
Early morning and late afternoon are best for birdwatching, photography, and avoiding peak sun exposure on trails.
Pets are allowed on trails and in campsites, but must be kept on a leash at all times.
Lake levels can fluctuate—check current conditions if you’re bringing a boat or plan to launch from the ramps.
Campfire rings and grills are available, but always check fire ban updates before using open flames.
Rentals for kayaks or paddleboards are not offered in the park, so bring your own or rent from nearby marinas.
Cell service is generally reliable, but downloading trail maps in advance is still a good idea.
Pack out all trash and help preserve the park’s lakeshore and forest environments.
What Else Is Nearby?
1. Lake Livingston Dam and Visitors Center
Visit the impressive Lake Livingston Dam, which controls one of Texas’s largest reservoirs. The area features scenic viewpoints, interpretive signage, and picnic areas along the Trinity River tailwaters, where anglers often fish below the dam.
Distance: 10 miles south – about 15 minutes
Why Visit: See the source of Lake Livingston and enjoy peaceful river views
2. Sam Houston National Forest
Located just west of the lake, this expansive national forest offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing across over 160,000 acres. The Lone Star Hiking Trail, Texas’s longest continuous trail, runs through this forest and is a favorite among backpackers and nature photographers.
Distance: 30 miles west – approximately 40 minutes
Why Visit: Extended hiking adventures and backcountry experiences
3. Big Thicket National Preserve
This unique preserve is known for its biodiversity and swampy terrain, offering paddling trails, nature walks, and wildlife viewing in a more rugged setting. It’s a great side trip for visitors who enjoy botanical diversity and East Texas ecology.
Distance: 55 miles southeast – about 1 hour
Why Visit: Explore rare habitats and paddle through scenic East Texas waterways
Final Thoughts on Visiting Lake Livingston State Park
Lake Livingston State Park offers a perfect balance of outdoor recreation and relaxing lakeside scenery, making it one of East Texas’s most versatile and family-friendly nature destinations. Whether you’re casting a line from the shore, paddling across vast waters, hiking through quiet pine forests, or enjoying a meal with lake views, the park delivers a classic Texas outdoor experience that’s both accessible and memorable.
Its close proximity to Houston and other nearby cities makes it ideal for weekend getaways or extended camping trips. With well-maintained facilities, peaceful trails, and year-round activities, Lake Livingston is a place where adventure and serenity coexist. It’s not just a state park—it’s a gateway to reconnecting with nature, spending quality time with loved ones, and discovering the wide-open beauty of Texas.
