Looking for hiking trails near San Augustine that offer peace, beauty, and a breath of fresh pine-scented air? Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just looking for a casual family stroll, East Texas delivers a trail experience as warm and welcoming as its people. At Bland Lake Hideaway, we love the outdoors—and we’re happy to share our favorite spots to stretch your legs and soak in nature.
If you’re staying with us or planning a day trip, lace up your boots and let’s explore some of the best family-friendly activities near San Augustine Texas—starting with the trails.
Mission Dolores Trail – History Meets Nature
We can’t talk about local hiking favorites without starting with the Mission Dolores Trail. Located right in San Augustine, this short and easy trail sits on the historic Mission Dolores State Historic Site. What makes it special? It follows part of the historic El Camino Real de los Tejas trail, giving you not just trees and birdsong, but a true sense of walking through history.
This trail is perfect for families, seniors, and anyone who wants to combine a light walk with a lesson in Texas history. And yes, we’ve walked it more than once—it’s one of our personal favorites!
More info:
Explore San Augustine Trails on AllTrails »
Sabine National Forest – Deep Woods, Big Adventures
Just 20 miles east of town lies a forest so rich in beauty it practically begs to be explored. Sabine National Forest is a hiker’s dream, and it features one of the crown jewels of East Texas hiking: the Trail Between the Lakes. This 28-mile trail stretches from Lakeview Recreation Area on Toledo Bend Reservoir to Highway 96 near Sam Rayburn Reservoir.
While this trail is longer and more rugged, there are plenty of entry points for shorter hikes. The peaceful pinewoods, wildflowers, and glimpses of local wildlife make it worth every step.
Looking for GPS routes or offline maps? Try this:
Plan Your Hike with Gaia GPS »
Santa Fe Park Nature Trail – Small But Mighty
Need something a little shorter or stroller-friendly? The Santa Fe Park Nature Trail is a gentle third-of-a-mile path that winds through trees and crosses a charming little wooden bridge. It’s located near the caboose and ends just south of Mission Dolores. It’s a great choice for young kids, or for anyone wanting a peaceful morning stroll with a coffee in hand (we recommend grabbing one from Hardware on the Square before you head out).
This is a great option for visitors looking for family-friendly activities near San Augustine Texas that don’t require packing a full hiking kit.
Blount Park – Perfect for a Picnic and a Walk
Sometimes the best trails aren’t far-off wilderness adventures—they’re in local parks! Blount Park offers walking trails, open green space, and picnic areas. It’s great for casual walkers, families, or those who want to enjoy some sunshine without committing to a full hike.
You’ll find this park right in San Augustine. It’s clean, shaded in parts, and easy to get to. While it’s not a “trail” in the rugged sense, it definitely deserves a spot on this list for its accessibility and charm.
Angelina National Forest – Nature in Our Backyard
Did you know parts of Angelina National Forest are located right within San Augustine County? These woods offer some of the best-hidden gems for outdoor recreation in the region. With scenic views, dense pine forests, and a slower pace of life, Angelina is a go-to for both spontaneous hikers and those seeking a more immersive nature escape.
Trails aren’t always clearly marked here, so it’s a good idea to use apps like AllTrails or Gaia GPS to guide your route.
Why We Love Hiking in San Augustine
San Augustine might be a small town, but it’s surrounded by big opportunities for hiking and nature appreciation. Whether you’re looking for trails that teach history, provide solitude, or let the kids run off some energy, there’s something here for you.
And when your legs are tired and your heart is full of fresh air and sunshine, Bland Lake Hideaway is the perfect place to return to. Our peaceful cabins and vacation rentals are surrounded by trees, close to the lakes, and just a short drive from all the trails listed above.
Planning your trip? Be sure to check out our other adventure ideas at
👉 Our Blog at Bland Lake Hideaway »
Bonus Tip: What to Pack for a San Augustine Hike
Here’s a quick checklist before you hit the trail:
- Water bottle (it’s Texas, y’all—it gets hot!)
- Bug spray (you’ll thank us later)
- Comfortable shoes
- Trail map or GPS app
- Snack or picnic lunch
- Camera or binoculars for wildlife
- Sunscreen and a hat
And if you forget something? Don’t worry—stop by Hardware on the Square for trail snacks, drinks, or even a thermos of iced coffee before you go.
In summary, the hiking trails near San Augustine are some of the most charming, scenic, and underrated paths in Texas. Whether you’re searching for family-friendly activities near San Augustine Texas or planning a weekend getaway filled with outdoor fun, the trails, forests, and parks around here deliver every time.
We’ll see you on the trail—and hopefully, around the fire pit at Bland Lake Hideaway when the day is done.