The World's Largest Cypress Forest Is Located Right Here In Small-Town Texas
By Katie Lawrence|Published December 17, 2019
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Plenty of spots here in Texas look like something from another planet, and Caddo Lake is no exception. It’s the largest cypress forest in the entire world, and visiting is truly an unforgettable experience.
Caddo Lake is not only the sole natural lake in Texas but also the world's single-largest bald cypress forest. Thick Spanish moss hangs down into the water, creating a hauntingly beautiful scene guaranteed to charm all who experience it.
You can explore the area in a variety of different ways, one being via steamboat. The Graceful Ghost is the last wood-burning, steam-powered, stern paddlewheel touring vessel on earth. She offers guests a tour that features compelling narration of the area's rich history.
Weave through the majestic plants in your kayak as you gaze up at them from underneath and admire their complex network of branches. Steer wherever the wind takes you on these wide open waters.
At some point, you'll come across an abandoned building known as Dick and Charlie's Tea Room that dates back to the 1800s. This dilapidated shack looks like something straight out of a gruesome horror film, formerly serving as a speakeasy during Prohibition.
Once night falls, the tranquil surroundings immediately become eerie. Your blood will turn cold watching the trees' wispy silhouettes swaying to and fro on the water.
No matter how you choose to spend your time here, know that a trip to Caddo Lake is a day well spent. You'll leave feeling rejuvenated, at peace, and ready to take on anything life throws at you.