Swimmers at Tyler State Park jump into the cool water at the swimming area. (Photos by Terry Cannon)
There’s still time to cool off close to home
School has started, meaning it’s “fall’’ for students.
But for the rest of us, it’s still summer and the blazing temperatures that come with it.
So how to beat the heat?
The answer may lie a dozen or so miles due east of Lindale.
Tyler State Park is a refreshing little getaway that has been around for almost 100 years which can be enjoyed while not stretching the family budget.
The park, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (one of President Franklin Rosevelt’s New Deal programs) in the 1930s offers not only swimming, but hiking and biking trails, fishing, camping, canoeing and easy access to nature’s wonders.
All for the affordable price of $6 per person. Those under 13 are admitted free.
During these waning days of summer, families preoccupied with getting their youngsters prepped for another school year can be seen cooling off at the swimming area or drowning a worm or two from the convenient fishing docks.
The history of this pristine jewel in East Texas dates to 1933, when the CCC partnered with the Texas Parks Board to develop dozens of Texas state parks.
(History note on the CCC: In 1933, FDR created the CCC which was composed of single men ages 18-25 to build state and national parks, improve public lands and forests, among other projects. They were paid $30 per month with $25 of that being sent home. These workers were provided three meals a day, a place to live and the opportunity to complete their high school education.)
In 1935 construction on Tyler State Park began by building a mess hall, a water tower and a boathouse, among other things.
Yet the most difficult task faced by the CCC workers was the construction of the 90-acre lake.
Not only did these workers have to clear a great deal of brush and debris but had to construct an 850-foot earthen dam.
Since the park is nestled among acres upon acres of trees, workers had to carve out fir breaks to stem the threat of wildfires.
Smith County became a home away from home for many of these CCC campers who made lifelong connections with county residents.
The park was officially opened in 1941, and it is said that visitors were in awe of the place the campers created.
It remains an enjoyable place to visit for a day, a weekend or even longer.