12 Fun Things To Do In Karnack, TX

Nov 15

Our family loves three things: time together, nature, and adventure - so purchasing a vacation home turned AirBnB in Karnack, TX was a no brainer.

If you’ve never heard of it, you might be questioning why you would spend precious vacation days in this small Texas town near the Louisiana border. I’ve made a list of five fun things to do that will change your mind and have you dreaming about visiting!

1. Visit Caddo Lake State Park. As the one and only natural lake in Texas, Caddo Lake offers STUNNING views of its historic cypress bayou. During your visit to the state park, you can take guided or self-guided hikes, set up a picnic, or learn from one of the many state park rangers.

2. Go On A Photography Tour. The wide variety of animal species, incredible views of nature, and the famous cypress trees make Karnack a perfect location for photography enthusiasts. Bring your equipment and head out on one of the many hiking trails for picturesque moments (or stay near your lodging - the beauty is literally everywhere!).

3. Take A Swamp Tour. If you’re looking for a true adventure, a swamp tour is the way to go! Head out on a boat with a guide to learn more about the landscape and the creatures that live in it. There are quite a few options for tours, so research which is best for you and your guests!

4. Fish Until Your Heart’s Content. Caddo Lake is a really popular location for fishing. With more than 70 species of fish, you’re basically guaranteed to have a good time fishing year-round. Utilize one of the parks public boat ramps, or fish from a public shore or pier, or take a guided tour from a local fishing expert. Be sure to check out all of the local fishing laws and license requirements before you visit.

5. Kayak Or Canoe (Like That Scene From The Notebook). You know that dreamy scene where Noah and Allie paddle through a gorgeous tree-filled lake?

Rent a kayak or canoe and recreate it amongst the 300-year old bald cypress trees in Lake Caddo. The gorgeous tree cover and floating lily pads offer the perfect location for a romantic getaway or an educational family excursion.

6. Before you get to your destination, stop at the Caddo Outpost for snacks and basic necessities.

7. Visit the Uncertain Flea Market. It happens two weekends a month and has tons of resell vendors! You’re guaranteed to find great deals.

8. Eat at Big Pines Lodge on the weekend and Shady Glade Cafe for breakfast and lunch. Both are delicious!

9. Play pool or grab a drink at Caddo Lake Lighthouse. If you’re hungry, grab a burger - you won’t regret it!

10. Drive around and look at the historic homes in the area. This is one of our favorite things to do - especially at sunset with the windows down!

11. Pop into the Ramsar Caddo Lake Wetlands Visitor Center. Here you’ll learn all about how the area became a protected wetland.

12. Spend a day in the Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge - a premier spot for backpacking, biking, and birding!

If you’re looking for a fun way to track your activities, play our Karnack Bingo Board! We have this set up as a dry-erase board in our AirBnB, and guests love checking off their adventures!

If you’re looking for a place to stay on your visit, our AirBnB is nestled into a cove on Mound Pond, which connects via water channel to Caddo Lake. It’s the perfect quiet location with quick access to popular spots. Check out the photos below, and book your stay today!