Discovering East Texas

First Monday Trade Days in Canton is widely recognized as the largest flea market in the world. Held each month from Thursday through Sunday before the first Monday, it covers hundreds of acres and hosts thousands of vendors. Shoppers find antiques, handmade goods, home décor, collectibles, and food options spread across multiple market areas. Its size and long history have made it a premier shopping destination for both locals and visitors.

The East Texas Yamboree in Gilmer is one of the region’s oldest and largest festivals, drawing tens of thousands each October. This four-day event celebrates the local sweet potato crop with a packed schedule of parades, a carnival, livestock shows, live music, and the crowning of the Yamboree Queen. Visitors also enjoy exhibits that highlight local history and culture, making the festival a vibrant tradition for over 80 years.

A classic East Texas lake known for forested shoreline, fishing, and quiet coves, Lake O’ the Pines offers boating, paddling, swimming beaches, and multiple USACE parks within an easy drive of Hillside View RV Retreat. Anglers target largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish, while birders watch for wintering bald eagles. Scenic drives circle the reservoir, with picnic areas and boat ramps dotted around the shore. 

Part adventure park, part event venue, Thomas Falls in nearby Diana mixes zipline runs, rope bridges, water obstacles, and sandy volleyball courts with spaces for group retreats and celebrations. Cabins and a small lake round out the setting, creating a playful backwoods escape just a short drive from the property. Signature thrills include multi-line zip courses that sweep over water and wooded ravines for big views.

Nicknamed the “Cathedral of Trees,” Daingerfield State Park wraps Little Pine Lake in towering pines and hardwoods, with trails that glow during spring wildflower and fall color seasons. Visitors paddle the calm lake, cast for bass and perch, and relax under shaded picnic spots. The park’s compact loop trails make it easy to sample the scenery in a single visit.

On the edge of Texas’ only natural lake, this park opens onto a maze of bayous draped in Spanish moss. Launch a canoe to explore Saw Mill Pond and Big Cypress Bayou, or join marked paddling trails that slip past cypress knees and abundant birdlife. Anglers find more than 70 fish species in the wider lake. A fishing pier and boat ramp simplify access, and canoe rentals are available inside the park.

Stretching across small towns and countryside, the Northeast Texas Trail converts former railroad corridors into a multi-use path for walking, running, and cycling. Trailheads and segments are scattered between Farmersville and New Boston, making it easy to sample a section on a day trip from the property. Surfaces range from gravel to paved in places, and wayfinding maps highlight access points.

A favorite for off-highway adventure near Gilmer, Barnwell Mountain Recreation Area spans about 1,850 acres with a mix of jeep, ATV/UTV, and motorcycle routes plus camping areas and cabins. Riders find everything from gentle forest tracks to rocky climbs, with a designated singletrack network for dirt bikes. The park typically opens Thursday through Sunday, and day-use or overnight options are available. Look for the 27+ miles of singletrack within its wider OHV trail system.

A longtime local favorite, La Finca serves crowd-pleasing Tex-Mex in a lively dining room with fast service and plenty of seating. The menu covers fajitas, enchiladas, seafood, and a few healthier picks, and you can order online for convenience. Regulars talk up the salsa and charro beans, and portions are generous. It is an easy dinner stop on a Gilmer day trip.

This family and veteran-owned spot in Gilmer turns out East Texas barbecue with a friendly, small-town vibe. Come early for sliced brisket, peppery ribs, and classic sides, then check weekend specials that sell fast. Social posts often tease giant beef ribs, bratwurst made with Shiner beer, and dessert cups of banana pudding.

Arnold’s Family Restaurant in Lone Star is a long-standing spot known for its classic comfort food served in a casual, welcoming setting. The menu features all-day breakfast, Tex-Mex plates, burgers, fried catfish, and hearty Southern staples like chicken fried steak. Daily lunch specials and homemade desserts are also popular with regulars.

Rancho Seco Steakhouse in Mount Pleasant specializes in hand-cut steaks prepared to order, alongside seafood dishes and hearty side options. The restaurant reflects Texas ranching traditions, offering quality cuts served in a modern but comfortable dining space. 

In nearby Avinger, Corbett’s Catfish & More focuses on American catfish and Gulf shrimp in a casual, small-town setting. Regulars come for crispy fillets, hushpuppies, and Southern sides, with weekly promotions and seasonal plates keeping the menu lively.

This Hughes Springs favorite dishes up homestyle comfort foods in a down-to-earth dining room—an easy detour for breakfast plates, burgers, or blue-plate specials when you’re exploring nearby parks. Travelers highlight the welcoming staff and generous portions, and recent reviews mention country-fried chicken, patty melts, and Tex-Mex-leaning options.