Daingerfield State Park

The best way to take in all the sights and sounds of Daingerfield State Park? By hiking the Rustling Leaves Nature Trail, which meanders two and a half miles around the spring-fed lake. See if you can spot fox, rabbit, and deer among the sweetgum, oak, and maple trees. Or go for a bike ride -- on the water. Park concessions has hydro bikes for rent, along with canoes, kayaks, and flat-bottom boats. Other popular lake activities include fishing and swimming, although there’s no lifeguard on duty, so swim at your own risk. If you can, try to camp at Daingerfield in the spring -- that’s when the fragrant dogwoods and wisteria vines are flowering. There’s nothing like waking up to the smell of nature’s best perfume.