If you’ve ever searched for a peaceful getaway in East Texas, you may have stumbled across Bland Lake Hideaway—a quiet retreat tucked into the pines. But have you ever wondered, who’s the family behind it? This page is your introduction to Joe Consford, the host of Bland Lake Hideaway, who is also a missionary, author, and storyteller.
Whether you’re booking a farm stay, curious about the people who run the hideaway, or just exploring the Consfords’ bigger story, here’s what you need to know.
Who is Joe Consford?
Joe Consford is more than just the guy making sure your stay at Bland Lake Hideaway is comfortable. He’s a missionary, an author, and a storyteller with deep roots in East Texas and a calling to serve in West Africa.
Alongside his wife Laura and their children, Joe splits his time between running the hideaway, roasting coffee through HOTS Coffee in San Augustine, and preparing his family for a return to Ghana with Hope of Africa Baptist Mission.
The Hideaway may be a peaceful escape for guests, but for the Consfords, it’s also a launching pad—a place where they share hospitality locally while raising support for their ministry abroad.
What is Bland Lake Hideaway?
Bland Lake Hideaway is a farm stay and retreat space in the woods of East Texas. Guests enjoy cozy lodging, lake views, and the chance to slow down and reconnect with nature.
It’s the kind of place where you can sit by the water with a cup of coffee, watch the birds overhead, and feel like the world has finally quieted down. And if you’re lucky, you might even get to hear Joe share one of his famous missionary stories around the firepit.
What books has Joe Consford written?
When Joe isn’t welcoming guests, he’s often writing. His first book, That’s My Goat – And Other Missionary Stories, is a collection of real-life adventures from years of serving in West Africa.
The stories range from funny cultural surprises to life-and-death moments that reveal God’s protection. Readers call it inspiring, adventurous, and unforgettable. The book is available on Amazon and at special events, often signed by the author himself.
And yes—Joe is already working on new story collections, so guests can look forward to even more reads in the future.
What mission work is Joe Consford doing?
The Consfords are preparing for a return to Ghana, West Africa. Their ministry focus includes:
- Planting new churches.
- Training and mentoring national pastors.
- Teaching in Bible institutes.
- Running school ministries to reach children and families.
- Partnering with Bible Tracts Inc. to distribute gospel tracts.
From 2001 to 2015, Joe and his family served in Ivory Coast and Ghana. After several years back in Texas, they’re now headed overseas again. While staying at Bland Lake Hideaway, you’re helping support a mission that stretches far beyond East Texas.
Can guests hear Joe speak?
Yes! Joe frequently speaks at churches across the United States, presenting his family’s ministry and sharing missionary stories. Guests often catch him in between trips or hear him share during small group gatherings at the Hideaway.
If you’d like to invite Joe to speak at your church, you can reach out through consfords.com/connect.
Why does Joe Consford call himself a storyteller?
Because stories stick. From African villages to the shores of Bland Lake, stories bring people together. Joe believes storytelling is one of the best ways to communicate truth, inspire faith, and make lasting connections.
At Bland Lake Hideaway, guests often leave with more than just a vacation memory. They leave with a story.
Final Thoughts
So—who is Joe Consford? He’s the host of Bland Lake Hideaway, but he’s also much more. He’s a husband, a dad, a missionary, an author, and a storyteller. He’s someone who can make you laugh with a tale about African culture, challenge you with a story of faith, and make sure your stay in East Texas feels like home.
Whether you’re enjoying the quiet beauty of Bland Lake Hideaway, sipping coffee from HOTS Coffee, or following the Consfords’ journey back to Africa, you’re part of something bigger. You’re stepping into the story.