Can you believe we've been close to hitting triple digit heat already? It's only June!

This will be my first summer in Texas - and I've been warned about the extreme humidity and blazing sun. Since there is nothing better than jumping into a pool or a lake full of cold water, I've come up with the five best places to go swimming in or around Lufkin-Nacogdoches.

Where do you like to go to cool off in the summer?

1. Lake Tejas - in Colmesneil

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Located in Colmesneil, Lake Tejas is know as 'The Best Little Swimmin' Hole In East Texas'.

This year, they've added over 200 ft. to their beach area, which has a shallower swimming zone and a larger area for people who prefer to stay out of the water, as well as a 50ft. slip and slide that dives into the spring fed water.

The cost is $6.00 for swimmers ages 6 and up, and the park is open until after Labor Day. Cabins, paddle boats, camping areas, lockers and picnic areas can also be rented for a small fee. Click on the links to view the important lake rules and item pricings.


2. Sam Rayburn Lake - in Jasper

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With over 600 miles of shoreline, there is plenty of space around Sam Rayburn Lake in Jasper to have a picnic, launch your boat, go fishing and enjoy swimming in the lake water. Other activities include waterskiing, wakeboarding, hiking, scenic drives and bird watching.

Many lodging areas can be found close by, including cabin rentals, lake houses, condos, bed and brekfast inns, motels and RV parks. This would be a great place to bring the whole family or organize a group of friends to come down to the lake for a fun weekend full of water fun!


3. The Blue Hole - in Wimberley

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I just recently found out about this 'Central Texas Treasure' when a couple of my friends showed me pictures of them at the Blue Hole.

The Blue Hole is surrounded by over 120 acres of natural forests and fields, and the water is as clear as the water you'd see in Hawaii, Mexico or any other exotic destination.

The hours of operation are from Sunday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m, and on Saturday and holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The cost for children 3-12, and seniors over 60 is $3.00, and $7.00 for everyone else, while season passes are $30 and $50, respectively.


4. Ratcliff Lake - in Kennard

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Located in the Davy Crockett National Forest, Ratcliff Lake Recreational Area is a convenient place to spend a weekend outdoors with friends and family.

Water activities include swimming, fishing and boating, located in separate areas of the lake. Camping, hiking, biking and bird watching are also popular land activities, along with a fun playground near by.

The park is currently closed due to tornado damage - but it should open back up soon this summer!


5.  Boys and Girls Club Swimming Pools - Lufkin and Nacogdoches

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The Lehman Swim Center in Nacogdoches  and the Lufkin Swim Center in Lufkin locations both offer large indoor swimming pools (seven lanes in Nacogdoches and eight lanes in Lufkin) for a small fee of $5.00 and $2.00, respectively.

Click on the links for the Lufkin Summer Pool Schedule  and the Lehman Summer Pool Hours.

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