Let’s face it: sometimes you want to dive into Texas history, and other times you want to dive into a lake. What if you could do both? That’s the beauty of staying at Bland Lake Hideaway while visiting the legendary Mission Dolores State Historic Site in San Augustine, Texas.
Where Texas Began (Sorta)
Back in 1721, before there was Buc-ee’s or bluebonnet selfies, there was Mission Dolores. It was one of the earliest Spanish missions planted in East Texas soil, aiming to spread Christianity, Spanish culture, and probably a good dose of mosquito bites.
Today, the Mission Dolores State Historic Site is a full-on experience. You’ll find a museum, walking trails, a top-notch visitor center, and even campsites if you like your vacations with a little tent-flappin’ and star-gazin’.
Learn more here: Texas Historical Commission: Mission Dolores
Why Folks Keep Coming Back
- Interactive Exhibits: Touchscreens, artifacts, and enough local lore to fill a chuck wagon.
- Outdoor Trails: Perfect for stretching your legs and pretending you’re an 18th-century missionary (or just trying to reach your step goal).
You’ll walk where Franciscan friars once tread, see preserved archaeological features, and get an up-close look at East Texas life when everything moved a bit slower—but still had plenty of drama.
Coffee & Comfort Food After History
Once you’ve filled your brain with historical facts (and possibly some trail dust), cruise over to Hardware on the Square in downtown San Augustine. You’ll find the best coffee this side of the Sabine and a menu full of homemade treats that’ll make your Texas-sized appetite holler “Yeehaw!”
They’ve got iced lattes, fresh pastries, sandwiches, and a whole lotta charm. Seriously—don’t skip it.
Stay the Smart Way: Bland Lake Hideaway
We’ll be real with you: You could stay at some chain hotel with buzzing lights and stiff pillows… or you could kick back at Bland Lake Hideaway, where your neighbors are birds, trees, and peace and quiet.
Located just a hop, skip, and a yeehaw from downtown San Augustine, our cabins and tiny homes offer cozy beds, stocked kitchens, and front-porch views that’ll cure whatever ails you. Perfect for:
- Weekend getaways
- Family history trips
- Romantic retreats with a side of historic charm
Plus, we’re real close to the Mission site—so you can go from Spanish ruins to fishin’ from the dock in about 15 minutes flat.
What Else Is There to Do?
While you’re in town, check out the other local gems:
- Windows Into History walking tour downtown
- The historic Courthouse Square
- Cullen House Museum
- Lobanillo Swales – actual wagon ruts from the El Camino Real trail
You’re not just passin’ through—you’re walkin’ through centuries of East Texas heritage. And when your boots get tired, Bland Lake is waiting.
Come Make a Weekend of It
Whether you’re on a road trip, planning a homeschool field day, or finally crossing Texas history off your bucket list, Mission Dolores State Historic Site is the place to be. And Bland Lake Hideaway? It’s the place to stay.
✅ Explore Mission Dolores
✅ Get Coffee at Hardware on the Square
✅ Book Your Cabin at Bland Lake Hideaway
Come for the history. Stay for the hammock nap.