Need a quick getaway without straying too far from Texas’ oldest town? These best day trips from Nacogdoches offer a refreshing change of scenery while keeping you within easy driving distance. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful nature retreat, a charming small-town stroll, or a scenic lake for a relaxing afternoon, East Texas is filled with quiet surprises perfect for road trippers with limited time.
This guide covers the top places you can explore in a single day from Nacogdoches. From forest-lined byways and historic sites to fishing spots and farm tours, these destinations deliver authentic East Texas beauty, culture, and fun.
Why Day Trips from Nacogdoches Are Ideal
With its central location in the Piney Woods region, Nacogdoches makes an excellent hub for short drives to neighboring towns and nature spots. The roads are scenic, traffic is light, and each destination feels like a new discovery. These escapes are perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families looking to unwind and explore—without the hassle of packing overnight bags.
Spring and fall are especially great for day trips, offering cooler temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. From lakes and parks to historic squares and vineyards, East Texas offers plenty of weekend day trip options from Nacogdoches that let you return home by sunset.
Top Day Trip Destinations from Nacogdoches
1. Mission Tejas State Park – Grapeland, TX
Just 40 minutes west, this peaceful park offers forest hiking, a replica 17th-century Spanish mission, and picnic areas. Trails wind through tall pines and along ridgelines with educational signage. It’s a great spot to combine hiking, history, and photography.
Address: 19343 TX-21, Grapeland, TX 75844
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $3 per adult
Famous For: Historic mission replica and tranquil wooded trails.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a packed lunch and enjoy a picnic under the tall pines after exploring the mission site.
2. Lufkin, TX
Located just 25 miles south, Lufkin is ideal for a mix of urban amenities and nature. Visit Ellen Trout Zoo, the Museum of East Texas, or the Angelina Arts Alliance for live performances. Plus, Lufkin’s parks and greenbelts offer a great urban-nature blend.
Address: Lufkin, TX (25 miles via US-59)
Hours: Most attractions 10 AM – 5 PM
Approx Cost: Varies; most parks are free
Famous For: Family-friendly attractions, arts, and shaded parks.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Plan a midweek visit for fewer crowds at the zoo and galleries.
3. Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area – Kennard, TX
This peaceful lake is nestled in Davy Crockett National Forest about an hour west of Nacogdoches. Hike the Tall Pines Trail, swim or paddle the lake, and enjoy birdwatching in a quiet natural setting.
Address: Hwy 7, Kennard, TX 75847
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $5/day-use fee
Famous For: Pine forest lake, hiking, and relaxing shoreline.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring water shoes for walking the lake edges and a hammock to rest among the pines.
4. Jefferson, TX
Step back in time with a visit to this historic river port town just under two hours northeast. Known for its antique shops, bed & breakfasts, and ghost tours, Jefferson offers a blend of charm and mystery. It’s ideal for history buffs and shoppers alike.
Address: Jefferson, TX (90 miles via TX-204 and US-59)
Hours: Most shops open 10 AM – 6 PM
Approx Cost: Free to explore; tours $10–$20
Famous For: Antique shopping, historic architecture, and ghost stories.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Join a late-afternoon walking tour or ghost tour for the full experience before heading home.
5. Tyler State Park – Tyler, TX
Roughly 1.5 hours north, this state park features a sparkling lake, forested trails, and plenty of photo-worthy landscapes. Rent a kayak, hike through pine and oak trees, or relax on the beach. It’s one of East Texas’ top day-trip nature escapes.
Address: 789 Park Rd 16, Tyler, TX 75706
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $6 per adult
Famous For: Clear spring-fed lake, fall foliage, and nature trails.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit in late October or early November for peak fall colors reflected in the lake.
6. Texas Forestry Museum – Lufkin, TX
If you’re looking for an educational and kid-friendly half-day trip, this museum offers interactive exhibits about East Texas’ timber industry, plus a small outdoor train and forest trail walk. It’s ideal for families and history lovers.
Address: 1905 Atkinson Dr, Lufkin, TX 75901
Hours: Tue–Sat, 10 AM – 5 PM
Approx Cost: Free (donations appreciated)
Famous For: Logging history, kid-friendly exhibits, and forest trails.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Combine your visit with a stop at nearby Kit McConnico Park for a nature walk and picnic.
7. Angelina National Forest – Zavalla, TX
East of Nacogdoches, this expansive national forest offers multiple day-use areas for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. Visit Boykin Springs or the Sawmill Trail to experience the beauty and solitude of the forest.
Address: Multiple access points via FM 2694, Zavalla, TX
Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free to $5 depending on area
Famous For: Remote hiking trails and peaceful forest drives.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a printed map—cell service is limited in deep forest areas.
Best Food Spots Along the Way
1. Restoration Wine Bar – Lufkin, TX
Enjoy gourmet small plates, curated wines, and an upscale ambiance in the heart of downtown Lufkin. Perfect for a late lunch after museum hopping.
Address: 210 S First St, Lufkin, TX 75901
Hours: Mon–Sat, 11 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$25 per person
Famous For: Wine pairings, charcuterie, and modern East Texas cuisine.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ask for a patio seat—it’s cozy and makes a great road trip memory.
2. Joseph’s Riverport Barbecue – Jefferson, TX
A classic stop in Jefferson for slow-cooked ribs, brisket, and hearty sides served in a rustic setting with Southern hospitality.
Address: 201 N Polk St, Jefferson, TX 75657
Hours: Wed–Sun, 11 AM – 7 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20 per person
Famous For: BBQ platters, sweet tea, and vintage small-town ambiance.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Go early for lunch—popular items often sell out by afternoon.
3. Love’s Lookout (Jacksonville, TX)
Stop at this scenic rest area with local vendors and food trucks offering tacos, burgers, and desserts. It’s a perfect spot to grab a snack and shoot panoramic photos of East Texas hills.
Address: US Hwy 69 N, Jacksonville, TX 75766
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 8 PM
Approx Cost: Varies by vendor
Famous For: Panoramic views and road trip refreshments.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit at sunset for incredible lighting and crowd-free views.
Packing Tips for Day Trips
Water and snacks for remote parks and trail stops
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
Cooler bag for picnic supplies or leftovers
Portable charger and offline maps
Bug spray and sunscreen for all-day protection
Refillable water bottle
Camera or phone for capturing scenic moments
Local Tips & Travel Advice
Start early to maximize your day and beat the crowds
Fuel up in Nacogdoches—rural areas may lack gas stations
Bring cash—some parks and small-town vendors don’t accept cards
Check weather conditions, especially for lake or forest visits
Call ahead if visiting seasonal or tour-based locations
Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Nacogdoches
Whether you’re craving forest trails, lakeside views, charming towns, or historical gems, these day trips from Nacogdoches offer something for every kind of traveler. With short drive times and minimal planning required, they make it easy to escape for a few hours and return home refreshed.
Take your camera, your curiosity, and a good playlist—because East Texas is full of hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered one day at a time.
