Embrace the beauty of the Piney Woods as you journey through the winding scenic highways of Sabine National Forest. A mesmerizing blend of lush greenery and towering pine trees awaits, creating a captivating backdrop for your adventure. Discover the tranquility and natural splendor that East Texas has to offer as you immerse yourself in the picturesque landscapes of this cherished national forest.

Embark on a scenic journey through the lush pine trees of Newton County, Texas. Follow the winding road as it leads you deeper into the heart of the Piney Woods, and take a moment to pause at the charming shelters along the way. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the forest, where the long pine trees create a mesmerizing and enchanting atmosphere.

Photograph of a family standing outside of a Belknap Barn exhibit in Abilene, Texas.

Photograph of a family standing in front of a Belknap Barn exhibit in Abilene, Texas.

Marvel at the beauty of a massive bush of fiery red azaleas at the Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum. This stunning display of nature's brilliance showcases a vibrant burst of red blooms, adding a touch of elegance and charm to the arboretum's landscape.

Sam Rayburn Reservoir, nestled within the enchanting East Texas Piney Woods, beckons anglers year-round to its abundant waters. As a cherished angler's haven, this picturesque reservoir hosts thrilling fishing tournaments throughout the seasons. From seasoned competitors to eager enthusiasts, the reservoir offers an unparalleled fishing experience, where the tranquility of nature meets the excitement of the catch. With the setting sun casting a golden glow over the glistening waters, the camaraderie and competitive spirit unite, creating cherished memories amidst the captivating beauty of Sam Rayburn Reservoir. In this delightful photograph, two motorboats adorned with determined fishermen gracefully glide through the water, seeking the thrill of the catch and the joy of the sport. The harmony between man and nature is palpable, a testament to the timeless allure of fishing on this pristine reservoir.

Text for a sidebar about museums housing historic flags across Texas that was published in the March 2002 issue of Texas Highways magazine.

Draft of an article about the Mast Arboretum at Stephen F. Austin State University that was published in the March 2008 issue of Texas Highways magazine.

Photograph of a saddle embroidered with flowers on display in Belknap Barn in Abilene, Texas. The photo is a close up.

Nestled in the serene landscape of East Texas, Foros Corner exudes the charm of a bygone era. The A-framed wooden structure stands as a rustic oasis along the highway, offering travelers a glimpse into the past. The vintage white car parked outside adds to the nostalgia, while gas pumps stand ready to serve. The hand-painted windows proudly display a variety of offerings, from tobacco to ice creams, inviting passersby to step inside and savor the delights of this welcoming general store. Surrounded by lush, dense trees, Foros Corner epitomizes the essence of small-town warmth and simplicity, a place where time seems to slow down, and memories are made.

Photograph of the front of Mallouf Boot shop located in Abilene, Texas. A man and woman stand at the counter looking over the merchandise.

Photograph of the lobby of the store Frontier Texas located in Abilene, Texas. Two display cases filled with natural plants of the region take center stage in the lobby.

Embracing a cherished morning tradition in the picturesque Hemphill's courthouse square, domino players unite for friendly matches. Scorekeeper J.D. Hileman of Hemphill, along with Walter Smith of Pineland and Bobby Butler of Hemphill, engage in lively games amidst laminated vases, reflecting the region's cultural heritage. As the sun casts a warm glow, the clinks of domino tiles echo through the East Texas Piney Woods, a symbol of enduring camaraderie and community spirit.

A heartwarming sight unfolds as a grandmother and her granddaughter joyfully stroll around the arboretum, surrounded by vibrant azaleas in full bloom. The little one marvels at the colorful spectacle, while the grandmother shares her love for nature, creating cherished memories amidst the floral splendor.

Stepping back in time, the East Texas Piney Woods unveils its rich heritage through C.A. Nethery's Antique Emporium in Milam. Originally opened in the 1880s as a general store along the historic El Camino Real, this family-run establishment stands as a living testament to bygone days. With its vast collection of antiquities and treasures, the emporium weaves a captivating narrative of the region's storied past, inviting visitors to explore a treasure trove of nostalgia and discover the timeless charm of the Piney Woods.

In the heart of Center, Texas, the Rio Theatre stands as a timeless beacon of entertainment. Illuminated by the warm glow of lights, the theatre exudes a sense of nostalgia and charm. Its marquee proudly displays the latest movies, inviting passersby to step into a world of cinematic wonders. As cars line the sides of the road, eager moviegoers prepare to embark on an evening of shared experiences and cherished memories. The street view captures the essence of a bygone era, where the magic of the silver screen continues to enchant audiences and keep the spirit of community alive.

The green anole (Anolis carolinensis), often mistaken for a chameleon due to its color-changing abilities, is a common and slender lizard with a long tail. Its color ranges from gray-brown to bright green, and males may display a pink dewlap. Found in the eastern third of Texas and the southeastern U.S., they thrive in greenery, moist environments, and can be spotted on trees, shrubs, walls, and fences.

Meet the green anole (Anolis carolinensis), a fascinating lizard known for its ability to change color and adapt to various environments. Slender and agile, it possesses a long, slender tail and a narrow head. While commonly mistaken for a chameleon, it is not a true chameleon. Found throughout the southeastern U.S., including the eastern third of Texas, this lizard thrives in greenery, seeks occasional shade, and prefers a moist habitat. From gray-brown to bright green, their coloration varies, and the males sport a pink dewlap when displaying. Whether perched on trees, shrubs, walls, or fences, the green anole adds a vibrant touch to its surroundings.

Photograph of a green sleeve embroidered with a lizard on display in Belknap Barn in Abilene, Texas.

In this captivating moment captured at the East Texas Jamboree, a talented woman with curly hair takes the stage, microphone in hand, delivering a spellbinding performance. Her vibrant embroidered blazer adds a touch of flair to her presence, and her powerful voice resonates through the air. Flanking her on both sides, two guitarists in classic cowboy outfits strum their guitars, harmoniously weaving their musical talents together. The stage comes alive with the magic of country melodies, and the audience is entranced by the captivating performance unfolding before them.

Witness the magical moment as the sun gracefully bids farewell, illuminating the East Texas Piney Woods with a mesmerizing sunset. The canvas of the sky is adorned with a palette of enchanting colors, casting a warm and radiant glow upon the majestic longleaf pine trees. This picturesque scene captures the timeless allure of the Piney Woods, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of nature's captivating masterpiece.

Resource list for an article published in the March 2001 issue of Texas Highways magazine about the Denison, Sherman, and Lake Texoma areas of Texas.

Discover the enchanting Aquilegia chrysantha var. hinckleyana, also known as Hinckley's Golden Columbine, at the Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum. This exquisite member of the Buttercup Family (Ranunculaceae) boasts canary yellow flowers with distinct spurs, standing out against fern-like and delicate foliage. Growing up to three feet tall, this rare columbine variety is native only to the Capote Falls in the Sierra Vieja Mountains of Presidio County, Texas. Its scarcity in the wild contrasts with its popularity in the nursery trade, valued for its shade tolerance, attractive leaves, and clear yellow blooms. A true gem to cherish and preserve.

The Waco Suspension Bridge, an iconic structure crossing the Brazos River in Texas, stands as a testament to engineering brilliance. With a single-span of 475 ft and constructed with nearly 3 million bricks, it opened its gates to the public on November 20, 1869. Connecting Indian Spring Park and Doris D. Miller Park, the bridge holds significance as the birthplace of Waco, where the Huaco Indians once settled. Every Independence Day, it becomes a gathering place for locals to witness dazzling fireworks, making it a cherished part of Waco's rich heritage.