Double Lake Recreation Area

This segment of the Lone Star Hiking Trail offers a delightful journey through the Sam Houston National Forest, leading you to the tranquil Double Lake Recreation Area. You'll wander through diverse East Texas ecosystems, from towering pine and hardwood forests to meandering creeks and areas dotted with dwarf palmettos. The path is generally flat, though you might encounter some wet spots and roots, making it a moderate 5.6-mile (9.1 km) hike that feels like a true escape into nature.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is well-marked with white blazes. The Double Lake Recreation Area provides convenient amenities like restrooms and potable water, which are great for a mid-hike break or after your 2-hour and 19-minute trek. While no permits are typically needed for day hiking, if you plan to camp, be mindful of restrictions during hunting season from September to January. This trail is particularly enjoyable during the cooler, less humid months of winter and spring.

This section of the Lone Star Hiking Trail is part of the Winters Bayou/Tarkington Creek Area, which holds National Recreation Trail status, highlighting its significance. With only 119 feet (36 metres) of elevation gain, it's an excellent choice for beginner backpackers or anyone looking for a less strenuous hike with high scenic payoff. Keep an eye out for active birdlife, especially in the Big Creek Scenic Area, which boasts rich tree diversity.

The Lone Star Hiking Trail: Magnolia Section offers a truly primitive and wild hiking experience, winding through a dense, shaded forest of towering loblolly and shortleaf pines, accented by southern magnolias and palmetto flats. You'll navigate singletrack paths that can feel like a 'green tunnel,' with exposed roots and fallen trees adding to the adventure. Expect to encounter meandering creeks and the significant, unbridged crossing of the East Fork of the San Jacinto River, which often requires wading or log-crossing.

This moderate 11.0-mile (17.8 km) hike, with 320 feet (97 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 4 hours and 35 minutes, demands preparation. Be ready for potentially muddy conditions, especially near the San Jacinto River flood plain, and always check water levels before attempting the river crossing. Proper footwear, long pants, sleeves, and insect repellent are essential for tackling this challenging section.

Part of the longest continuous hiking trail in Texas, this section provides a unique opportunity to experience deep solitude within the Sam Houston National Forest. Wildlife such as deer, hogs, and various birds are common, and near water sources, you might even spot snakes or alligators. The primitive Magnolia Primitive Campsite is available for those looking to extend their adventure overnight.

The Lone Star Hiking Trail: Big Creek / Double Lake Section offers a delightful journey through the heart of the Sam Houston National Forest. You'll wind through lush pinewoods and diverse hardwoods, with the trail often hugging the banks of Big Creek, especially as you pass through the Big Creek Scenic Area. Expect a mix of single-track paths and some gentle hills that provide a good, moderate workout, making it a great option for hikers looking for varied scenery and a decent challenge.

This 11.0-mile (17.7 km) hike, with its 255 feet (78 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 4 hours and 32 minutes. The trail is generally well-maintained and clearly marked, making navigation easy. Parking is available at both the Big Creek and Double Lake trailheads. Be prepared for potential creek crossings without bridges, especially after heavy rains, as the former Big Creek bridge is out.

This section is considered one of the most picturesque parts of the entire Lone Star Hiking Trail, known for its rich biodiversity and opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and various bird species. The trail also skirts the scenic Double Lake, offering a pleasant natural feature. Primitive camping is permitted along the route, with more developed facilities available at the Double Lake Recreation Area.