Tyler is a busy city in eastern Texas. The community was originally platted in the mid-19th century, and it was named for President John Tyler. The new city was officially incorporated on January 29, 1850. In its early years, agriculture fueled the economy. However, logging and several types of manufacturing also became significant industries during the era. Tyler would see major growth after a branch of the Houston and Great Northern Railroad was built in the area in 1874. Another significant milestone in the city's history occurred in 1971 when the University of Texas at Tyler was established. By 1980, the city had a population of approximately 70,500.
As of 2022, Tyler is home to roughly 108,000 people and is known as "The Rose Capital of America." During its peak, more than half of the country's supply of roses was grown in the area. Although roses aren't as prominent in Tyler these days, visitors can still enjoy a peaceful stroll through the Tyler Municipal Rose Garden. Tyler is also a favorite destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering attractions such as the Tiger Creek Wildlife Refuge and the Caldwell Zoo. There are many excellent parks and other natural areas worth visiting as well. For example, you could go fishing at Tyler State Park, have a picnic at The Children's Park, or explore the lovely nature trails of Camp Ford Historic Park.
If you prefer indoor attractions, why not check out a few of Tyler's many fascinating museums? A few good examples are the Cotton Belt Depot Museum, the 1859 Goodman-LeGrand House and Museum, the Center for Earth and Space Science Education, and the Historic Aviation Memorial Museum. There is also the Discovery Science Place, which features an earthquake simulator, a live iguana, and lots of interactive exhibits. When you get hungry, a couple of restaurants to sample in town are Stanley’s Famous Pit House Barbecue and the Clear Springs Restaurant.
Campgrounds Near Tyler, Texas
Jellystone Park at Whispering Pines is a family-friendly campground that offers over 100 full-hookup RV campsites for $35 per night or $210 per week. The campground is known for its cleanliness and abundance of activities for children. Plus, while you're staying there, you will only be a few minutes away from downtown Tyler.
Spring Creek RV Park has full-hookup RV campsites and features a pool and hot tub for guest use. If you enjoy fishing, head to nearby Lake Palestine to cast your line. The campground also provides Wi-Fi and secure RV storage.
Tyler State Park is home to 125 full-hookup RV campsites available for only $24 per night. Each site at the campground features a grill, a picnic table, and a fire ring. Park amenities include an RV dump station, showers, and Wi-Fi. Additionally, there is a lake adjacent to the campground, and you can rent a kayak, jon boat, or canoe during your stay.
State Parks Near Tyler, Texas
Tyler State Park is a scenic natural haven and one of the most popular destinations for outdoor recreation in the Tyler area. Visitors can utilize the on-site reservoir for fishing, swimming, and boating. Additionally, the park features 13 miles of beautiful trails that are perfect for hiking and mountain biking. Picnicking and geocaching are also popular activities at Tyler State Park. If you plan to visit in the summer, prepare for the extreme heat! Summer temperatures at Tyler State Park regularly hit the mid-90s or higher.
Located on the shores of a vast lake, Purtis Creek State Park provides a tranquil setting for various types of recreation. The reservoir, which is fed by Purtis Creek, offers great opportunities for boating, kayaking, swimming, and freshwater fishing. Anyone who prefers to stay dry can navigate the nearby hiking and biking trails. You could also enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch by the water or partake in a bit of geocaching around the picturesque area.
Another fantastic destination for water-based fun in the greater Tyler area is Martin Creek Lake State Park. The park is an exceptional place to fish, and it hosts fishing tournaments throughout the winter months. If you don't have your own fishing rods or other necessary equipment, you can rent what you need on site. Alternatively, you can go hiking or biking along the area's trails. While exploring, you will want to watch for armadillos, white-tailed deer, opossums, and other wildlife. You may also spot colorful bird species, including cardinals, herons, blue jays, and egrets.
National Sites Near Tyler, Texas
If you are interested in archaeology and prehistoric times, put a trip to Waco Mammoth National Monument on your must-do list. Located along the beautiful Bosque River, the monument is home to the fossilized remains of mammoths, dire wolves, a saber-toothed tiger cub, and other animals that died over 75,000 years ago. The main attraction is the group of Columbian mammoths, which features both adults and juveniles. Visitors can explore the unique site through routes like the Waco Mammoth National Monument Trail and the Waco Mammoth Dig Shelter Trail. The monument also offers shaded picnic areas and several places to hike or bike.
Big Thicket National Preserve is a diverse natural site containing bayous, pine forests, and even stretches of desert. During your visit to the gorgeous preserve, you can hike the trails, paddle in the Neches River, hunt, and observe the local birds and other wildlife. Over 300 avian species call the area home, and you may also see a few lounging turtles. The large park features more than 40 miles of hiking trails of varying difficulty levels.
At the President William Jefferson Clinton Birthplace Home National Historic Site, you can see the home where former president Bill Clinton was born and raised. The home was originally constructed in 1917, and Clinton was born there on August 19, 1946. The site now features a visitor information center where you can learn about former President Clinton's childhood, life, and career. You can browse the collection of exhibits, stop by the bookstore, and take a ranger-led tour of the premises.
National Forests Near Tyler, Texas
One Texas national forest worth visiting is Angelina National Forest, which covers 153,000 acres and spreads across four counties. One of the forest's most notable features is Sam Rayburn Reservoir, the largest man-made body of water in Texas. Visitors often utilize the lake for fishing, boating, and swimming. There are many miles of nature trails to explore in the area, and a couple of the best options are the Lanana Creek Trail and the Banita Creek Trail. Other recreational activities enjoyed in the forest are geocaching, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and stargazing.
Named after the famed pioneer himself, Davy Crockett National Forest comprises 160,000 acres of scenic woodlands. Among the trees, visitors will find streams, wildlife habitats, a lake, and even a bathhouse with showers and an amphitheater. The lake lies within Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area, a popular destination for camping, fishing, swimming, and boating. Hiking is a common activity throughout the entire forest, with trails like the Four C National Recreational Trail and the Neches Bluff Trail being two frequented routes.
Sam Houston National Forest lies approximately 50 miles north of Houston, Texas and is known as a wonderful area for visitors to explore. If you are a hiking enthusiast, you will want to check out the Lone Star Hiking Trail. It is easy to access and spans a whopping 128 miles. Another popular spot is the Double Lake Recreation Area, where you could launch your boat, swim, or sunbathe on the beach. Many visitors also spend time angling and watching the local birds and other wildlife species.
