Junior's Dedication:

Grandma and Grandpa thank you for raising me in the outdoors. Teaching me to love the outdoors, how to hunt, fish, and provide. If it wasn’t for you I wouldn’t be where I am today, so thank you.

Episode Description:

Exploring Tyler State Park with Interpretive Ranger Junior

Get ready to discover the beauty, history, and hidden gems of Tyler State Park in this episode of Trailblazing Texas Podcast! I sit down with Interpretive Ranger Junior to learn what makes this East Texas treasure so special.

We’ll start by exploring Junior’s journey with Texas Parks & Wildlife, from what inspired him to join the team to his favorite moments and memories at Tyler State Park. Junior paints a vivid picture of the park’s unique landscape, its rich history, and even shares a few fun facts most visitors don’t know about.

From there, we dive into everything that makes the park an outdoor playground, over 13 miles of hiking trails, beginner-friendly paths for families, birdwatching hotspots, and the beautiful spring-fed lake where visitors can swim, paddle, or just relax by the water. Junior also shares his top safety tips, hidden scenic spots, and even what the night sky looks like away from the city lights.

Of course, we can’t talk about Tyler State Park without mentioning the camping scene. Whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned pro, the park offers everything from tent sites to group shelters, plus accessible facilities and ranger programs that bring the park to life.

Finally, we explore why Tyler State Park has such a special place in the hearts of visitors, families returning year after year, community connections, and the sense of peace and adventure that keeps people coming back.

If you’ve never been, this episode will have you adding Tyler State Park to your must-visit list!