Guide to East Texas Swimming Holes
Boykin Swings Offers White Sand Beaches and Waterfalls
Boykin Springs is the go to place for many Deep East Texas families to cool off when the heat and humidity are off the charts. The park is within the Angelina National Forest. Are you looking for one location that offers activities for the whole family? Pack up the station wagon (Oh, you’re right, they do call those SUVs today) and head to Boykin Springs.
When the heat index goes up, everyone will want to swim and Boykin Springs has lots of options including your choice of white sand beaches or a waterfall.
Do you have a kid who is into fishing (So do we!)? They will have the chance to catch three species of bass, three types of catfish, and an assortment of perch and panfish.
Some say the family that paddles together stays together. Explore Boykin Creek and the nine-acre Boykin Lake by canoe, kayak, or paddle boat.
Does your family have a tradition of camping together? Seventeen tent camping sites are available with water, fire rings, and lantern posts. Nine RV spaces are also available.
If you are looking for a scenic stroll, Boykin Spring offers a picturesque five-mile hike. The Sawmill Hiking Trail is relatively level and much of it follows an old logging tramway. Follow the white rectangular markings to a lovely waterfall on Boykin Springs. The hiking trail will also take you to the Neches River and to the ruins of the historic Old Aldridge Sawmill. You can also see a historic stand of longleaf pine, the much larger cousins of the pines all over East Texas today. When longleaf pine dominated the landscape, you could walk through the forest freely between the trees without any of the undergrowth you find today. Your kids will have the opportunity to see what our region was like when bears, panthers, and Native Americans were common. The hiking trail is considered appropriate for all levels.
Are you planning an East Texas family reunion? Boykin Springs has a covered shelter for rent that will accommodate up to 74
people. Water, grills, and bathrooms are available. The shelter is historic – it was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression.
Day use is currently free.
Overnight camping is $10. Parking for two cars is included.
Shelter rental is $25, a bargain for a large family event. The shelter does not have electricity.
Directions: From Zavalla, travel east on Hwy 63 for 10.5 miles; turn right (south) on Forest Road 313 for 2.5 miles to the campground.
Boykin Springs – East Texas Swimming Hole, Park, and Hiking Trails
Phone: 936-897-1068
Are you looking for help advertising a local attraction or marketing an upcoming event?
We can help.
- Daryl Fant, Publisher Southeast Texas Family Magazine
- (512) 567-8068
- SETXAdvertising@gmail.com
Our magazine is designed to help the moms of East Texas and The Golden Triangle find the best education, resources, and entertainment for their families.
Stay tuned for more information about Texas swimming holes.
We’ll be featuring them all month long at SETXFamily.com.
