
Load your picnic basket and head to the best picnic spots around Jacksonville, TX. With so many scenic parks and picturesque landscapes to choose from, the possibilities for a perfect picnic are endless.
Just Down the Road: 3 Favorite Picnic Spots Near Jacksonville, TX
1. Lake Jacksonville
Enjoy a scenic picnic overlooking the sparkling 1,325-acre Lake Jacksonville in the Neches River basin at 2700 Byrd Road in Jacksonville. Picnic benches are scattered in the shade under the mixed hardwood and pine trees along the shore, providing sweeping views over the lake’s crystal-clear water. The picnic area is near the sandy swimming beach, pier, and campground.
There are also three boat ramps, making it an excellent destination for swimming, fishing, paddling, and boating. Linger along the lake until early evening, when the setting sun casts a warm orange glow over the water for the perfect ending to a lovely day on the lake.
2. Love’s Outlook Park
Enjoy a delicious lunch at Love’s Outlook Park on 43822 US 69. At 713 feet, Love’s Outlook Park, with its locally sourced iron ore stone wall lining the ridge, has long been renowned for its breathtaking vistas towards the eastern horizon. On days with clear skies, it’s possible to see as far as 30 to 35 miles away. Sit at one of the picnic tables and have a delicious lunch while admiring the sprawling, far-flung views over the Texas landscape.
The park is also home to one of the last fire towers, listed on the National Historic Lookout Register, built by the Texas Forest Service in 1935 and remained active until 1970. A historical marker reveals the origin of Love’s Lookout Park, once owned by Wesley Love at the turn of the century, and there are impeccable restrooms, vending machines, and an information center.
3. Nichols’ Green Park
Pack your favorite picnic lunch, pile your loved ones in your spacious Chevy or GMC, and head to Nichols’ Green Park at 1215 Heritage Drive: Jacksonville’s flagship park with lush meadows, beautiful wooded areas, and plenty of fun outdoor activities.
After playing a round of disc golf, tennis, or basketball and watching the little ones running through the sprayers at the splash pad and swinging and sliding at the playground, take a leisurely stroll down one of the winding walking paths to find the ideal spot for a bite to eat. You can spread your blanket on the rolling green lawn overlooking the pond or get comfy in the pavilion and enjoy a lovely picnic with family and friends.
Picnics are an excellent way to enjoy beautiful surroundings, and whether it’s a romantic picnic for two or a fun family outing, there’s something special about dining al fresco. After your picnic, drop by Bacon Auto Country to look at the new Chevrolet and GMC models and find your next reliable ride.

