After a long and hot summer, autumn is finally here in Rockwall, Texas. Many residents of this suburb of Dallas are eager to get out and enjoy a variety of family-friendly outdoor activities. Fortunately, the region is close to plenty of fishing and camping options that can be reached with a relatively short drive. And with the holiday season fast approaching, there are a number of festive events that you and your family can participate in. Check out the following ways to enjoy nature this fall near Rockwall:
Bass Fishing
If you would rather fish than work, sleep or eat, there are plenty of great angling opportunities that are not too far from Rockwall. Lake Ray Hubbard is nearby on the east fork of the Trinity River. The lake has a surface area of over 21,000 acres and a maximum depth of 40 feet, which makes it an ideal environment for several types of fish. The lake, which was impounded in 1968, is home to white and hybrid striped bass, largemouth bass, channel and blue catfish and white crappie.
A popular feature of the lake is Rockwall Harbor, which offers plenty of dining, live music, movies, shopping and more. Pack the car with your fishing equipment and bait and maybe a change of clothing and head over to the lake for a day of fishing. Then, when you and the kids have caught your record largemouth bass, drive over to Rockwall Harbor and enjoy a beautiful sunset and tasty dinner with your family.
Family-friendly Tent Camping
You don’t have to own a massive RV to experience some great camping. For example, an hour-long drive will take you from Rockwall to Hidden Cove Park and Marina, where you can camp near Lake Lewisville. Pack up your family car with tents, sleeping bags, fishing gear, plenty of warm clothing and fixings for s’mores and head to the campground to set up your tent under the tall trees; keep in mind that now is the time to take advantage of holiday deals if you’re lacking any gear for your trip. Spend the afternoon fishing with the kids and then head to the campground for an evening of scary-but-fun ghost stories under the autumn sky.
Festive Events
If you’re looking to get in the holiday spirit, you can attend one of the community events taking place in Rockwall this fall. For example, the Festival of Trees is taking place from November 18-20 at the Hilton Bella Harbor right on Lake Ray Hubbard. Here you can peruse the many Christmas trees and wreaths for sale and give back to the community at the same time, as all proceeds go to Rockwall County Helping Hands — a non-profit agency that helps families in need. Another option near Rockwall is Heath Holiday in the Park, taking place on December 2 in Towne Center Park. At this event, you and your family can enjoy dining outdoors on food provided by local food trucks. There will also be a Christmas tree lighting and the opportunity for a photo with Santa!
