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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
If you plan to visit a national park during your trip, the nearest one to Tyler is Hot Springs National Park. The park is in the town of Hot Springs, Arizona. During your visit, stop by the historic bathhouses and enjoy a soak in one of the ancient geothermal baths. These natural pools are a main park attraction, and spending some time in one will be a unique and revitalizing experience. Once you're feeling refreshed from your soak, you could head to one of the nearby hiking trails to explore the area and get some exercise.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is home to a vast network of limestone caves. Originally discovered by a curious youth in 1898, the caverns are found in the Chihuahuan Desert. In addition to touring the fossilized caverns, you can attend the park's bat flight program to watch the Brazilian free-tailed bats fly out of the caves at sunset. This popular event takes place every evening between Memorial Day and October. Other must-do events regularly held by the park include free star walks and moon hikes.
Few national parks are as perfect for adventurous recreational activities as Big Bend National Park. Situated along the Rio Grande River in southwestern Texas, the park is home to challenging mountain biking routes, breathtaking hiking trails, and whitewater rapids. Big Bend National Park, named for a section of the Rio Grande, covers 801,000 acres total and contains mountains, deserts, canyons, and thermal hot springs. If you are looking for a more laid-back activity, you could embark on a guided walk or spend your time birdwatching, fishing, picnicking, or stargazing.
On average, the price to rent a motorhome is $120-200 per day, $360-600 for three nights, and about $800-1,400 for a week. Some owners will give you a discounted price the more days you rent. Check the listing details or ask the owner directly if you plan to book a longer stay.
What does RVshare Protection cover with my Tyler, TX RV rental?RVshare's protection plan standard package covers up to $300,000 in comprehensive and collision coverage based on the value of the RV. It also includes free 24/7 roadside assistance and free towing and tire service. For more information on RVshare insurance, click here.
What do I need to know before renting an RV in Tyler, TX?Tyler has plenty of freeway access to make getting around a breeze. The city is known for cultivating roses, and several places around town feature stunning and fragrant rose gardens. Be sure to include time in your plans to explore the Caldwell Zoo, the Tyler Rose Garden, and the Discovery Science Place.
What are the RV rental requirements in Tyler, TX?There is no special license needed to rent an RV, but it never hurts to check state websites. if you are unsure about traveling there and any regulations they may have, double-checking with the state will provide some peace of mind!
What are some tips for first-time RV renters in Tyler, TX?Renting an RV in Tyler, TX means endless blue skies, open roads, and delicious eastern Texas BBQ. With all the wide open space, make sure you have a full tank of gas and plenty of food before you hit the road. There are several campgrounds in the area, with pools, hot showers, and other amenities.
What are the minimum age requirements for renting an RV in Tyler, TX?The minimum age requirement for renting an RV is 25.
What is included in my Tyler, TX RV rental?You should find any amenities that are included with your rental in the listing details. But it never hurts to check in with the owner before you arrive at the RV or have it delivered to ensure you have everything that is needed to have a fun and enjoyable trip!
Are there pet friendly RVs for rent in Tyler, TX?Looking for a pet friendly RV rental? Use the pet-friendly filter when searching on RVshare.com to find the perfect one for you!
Can I have my Tyler, TX RV rental delivered to a specified location?Many owners on RVshare.com offer delivery, and will even set it up for you at the campsite. Choose the 'Delivery' filter to narrow down your search results to RVs that can be brought to your home or destination. Check the listing details for any information regarding extra fees for delivery, or ask the owner if you are unsure.
Are there one way rental options from Tyler, TX?One way rentals can add flexibility to your trip, but there are typically costs associated with returning the RV back to the owner. Learn more about one way rental options at rvshare.com/one-way-rv-rentals.
