Making big vacation plans or need a weekend getaway? Take a trip to the great state of Texas, where everything is bigger, including the Lake Fork Reservoir. This massive 27,690-acre lake features 315 miles of shoreline that zigzags through three counties and breathtaking Texan landscapes. Make your trip a breeze and stay in a vacation rental at Lake Fork where we offer accommodations that range from small waterfront cabins to sprawling ranch houses. There’s so much to do and see around Lake Fork, but to make it easier here are 1o things you can’t miss on your trip to “The Lone Star State.”
1. Quitman, Texas
Drive east of Dallas about an hour and a half and experience some small town Texas charm in Quitman. Here you can get pampered at a historic bed-and-breakfast or enjoy total privacy at a secluded farmhouse. This town’s motto is “Come Grow With Us,” and many of the activities are family-friendly and free. Locals recommend dining at the Country Kitchen, which offers homestyle cooking and hospitable service. Quitman also has a charming arts district as well as live music and dancing on most weekends.
2. Lake Fork near Pope’s Marina
There are so many waterfront vacation rental options to choose from, but the Pope’s Marina area is one of the most popular destinations at the lake. Here you can kick back with a cold drink on a private dock, watching a spectacular sunset over the west side of the lake. Called “The Bass Capital of Texas” there are great fishing spots to throw out the line and enjoy grilling in the warm Texas air.
3. Mineola, Texas
Experience small town Texas with an artsy flair in Mineola, which is just a 30 minute drive from the lake. Take the family to The Waldo Way Dairy Farm for fresh foods and charming scenery or check out the Mineola Depot and Railroad Museum. One of the most popular activities in Mineola is a night at the movies or a live show at Lake Country Playhouse, one of the oldest theaters still in operation in the Texas.
4. Alba, Texas
Sneak away to Alba, a quiet little country town located just down the road from Lake Fork. The town has a rich coal and salt mining history with a display of mining and ranching tools from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many enjoy biking around town or exploring historic buildings. Be sure to visit Lake Fork Creek Steak and Seafood for taco Tuesday or a delicious cup of gumbo, a local favorite!
5. Yantis, Texas
Lake Fork surrounds Yantis on three sides, making it the perfect place for waterfront adventures! Rent a waterfront cabin and wakeup everyday to a beautiful Texas sunrise against the lake. If golf is your game, be sure to visit the beautiful Links at Land’s End golf course, landscaped around the contours of the lake shore.
6. Emory, Texas
Unpack your bags and settle into comfortable accommodations in Emory to see real Texas cattle country. Go just outside of town to see longhorn cattle and maybe some real cowboys as well. You can also enjoy swimming at the lake or spend a day sightseeing in the picturesque town.
7. Northwest Section of Lake Fork
It is no secret that Lake Fork is one of the premiere bass fishing lakes in the country, and if you want to get in on the action, just pick a place to stay on either side of Highway 515 on the northwest side of the lake. Take your own fishing tackle, or get some at the Lake Fork Marina. You can also purchase fishing rods, reels, lures, buckets, and refreshments at the shop and get more information about the area.
8. Grand Saline, Texas
The town of Grand Saline gets its name from the salt mines in the area and is only about 30 minutes from the lake. There are plenty of vacation rentals surrounding the area including private homes, hotels, and bed-and-breakfasts. Here you can take the kids to see the critters at the East Texas Zoo and Alligator Farm or visit the Salt Palace Museum.
9. Eastern Side of Lake Fork
Waterfront cabin rentals on the east side of the lake mostly include private docks with boat houses. Bring your binoculars and look for some large birds that are exclusive to the Lake Fork area. Bird watchers come from around the country to spot a Cormorant, or water turkey. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the perfect shot for your photo album!
10. Southeast End of Lake Fork
Find your family a cabin back in the woods or a unit on the lake at the southeast end to enjoy a relaxing wilderness experience. Swim, fish, go boating or break out the paddle boards for some outdoor family fun. In the early mornings or late evenings you might even see deer and other wildlife.