An Extraordinary 800+ Acre Nature Preserve
Deer Lake Cabins
Private Lakes, Nature Trails & Majestic Wildlife
Deer Lakes Cabin Ranch Resort
An extraordinary 800+ acre nature preserve tucked away in the towering hardwoods & pines of East Texas. Featuring beautiful private lakes & ponds, endless nature trails, & majestic wildlife.
1692 Panther Creek Pass, Mt. Vernon, TX 75457
903-960-0181
guestservices@deerlakecabins.com
https://deerlakecabins.com
Guest Blog About The Deer Lakes Cabin Ranch Resort
The fact is vacations look different than they did last summer. People are consciously asking themselves, how can we relax, unwind and still entertain the kids while protecting ourselves and others? Fortunately, the answer is a lot closer than you might think. Mount Vernon, TX, just 100 miles East of downtown Dallas, is home to Deer Lake Cabins Ranch Resort. The ranch boasts 800+ acres of indisputable beauty, packed with over 15 miles of hiking trails, stocked spring fed lakes, horseback riding, hayrides, hiking, bicycling and so much more. Families have been traveling to and making unforgettable memories together at Deer Lake Cabins Ranch Resort for years now, and I spoke with General Manager, Kendra Daugherty to find out what makes Deer Lake Ranch so special.
Kendra tells me that the chance to escape and reconnect with nature is what attracts so many folks and keeps them coming back. She says the guests love the family time together here, as they put away their electronics and get back to nature. Whether they are looking for peace and relaxation or adventure and excitement, families love how there is something to do and memories to be made for every single member of the family here.
Deer Lake Cabins Ranch Resort is located on the historic Double S Ranch, leading to Horseback riding as one of many popular outdoor activities that guests can enjoy. Guided 1 hour trail rides take you through towering pines, hardwoods and historic ferns thriving under the shade the trees provide. For the younger riders, their trail guides also offer lead-line pony rides around the tranquil horse park. If horseback riding isn’t at the top of your list, they also have UTV rentals available for you to explore the beautiful nature trails at your own pace. You can also enjoy the two private, spring-fed lakes and the several ponds on the property where you can swim, paddle board, kayak, or fish for perch, crappie, and large mouthed bass. Folks also come from all over to take advantage of Lake Cypress Springs which is just a stone throw away from the ranch property line. Lake Cypress Springs is noted to be one of the most beautiful lakes in Texas. Rent a boat or take a guided boat tour to soak up some breathtaking scenery or access the perfect fishing spots. Located over one of the largest aquifers, the spring fed lakes are stocked with largemouth bass, blue gill, crappie, brim, catfish and tilapia.
One thing that really sets Deer Lake Cabins Ranch Resort apart from other locations are the amenities included in your stay. A large variety of the available activities are complementary. Kayaks, paddle boards, pedal boats, and bicycles are all available on a first come basis. There’s a sand volleyball court, bocce ball, lake swimming, basketball and playgrounds on the property. If your kiddos are looking for some outdoor inspired activities there is a nature craft class and feed the animals farm tour that are both reasonably priced and to be honest, I would be happy participating in myself! Some activities that caught my eye include the “Old West” themed escape room and an outdoor adventure called “Escape the Woods”. These would make obvious choices for team building events for corporate getaways but would also be one of those family activities you would talk about for years to come.
One thing that got me excited about visiting is the fact we can bring our dog. A pet-friendly vacation spot can be hard to come by. At $35 per night for a pet it’s less expensive than most boarding facilities and your pup can enjoy the great outdoors right along with you. Leashed of course for everyone’s safety and comfort. The abundance of wildlife may prove to be too tempting for most dogs as it includes a tremendous amount of white-tailed deer(best viewed usually in the mornings and evening), silver foxes, red foxes, armadillos, squirrels, raccoons, and possums. With all the wildlife and birds that make up their own nature preserve there is no hunting allowed on the property. The bird boxes located throughout the acreage attract native species and there is no shortage of feathered friends to observe and appreciate.
The cabins range in size and price from cozy smaller layouts perfect for couples to much larger multi-family arrangements. Each cabin is fully stocked with linens, towels, cooking and eating utensils and supplies, and satellite TV. Most also offer a full kitchen and come equipped with their own washer, dryer and dishwasher to help make your stay as comfortable as possible. These family friendly accomodations are inviting to people planning family reunions and weddings. The event venue on site can host around 150 people. The Deer Lake Cabins team also offer cowboy cookouts with Southern style BBQ favorites like smoked brisket and ribs accompanied by music or other live entertainment. You can also cook the fish you catch or meal prep with your own food using the kitchen in your cabin or provided charcoal grill. Those who aren’t up for cooking can make the short venture into either Mt Vernon or Winnsboro for some great eatery options. Kendra recommends ML Edwards in Mount Vernon for its historic general store, cafe and coffee shop. Their pies look delicious and you can shop downtown antique stores while you digest your meal.
The busiest season follows the public school schedule from mid May to the end of August and of course holidays, so make your reservation early! Kendra is partial to Fall for a visit because of the foliage changing colors and the milder temperatures. Being our first time to visit I asked Kendra if she had any advice on what to bring vs. what not to bring. I didn’t want to overpack. While the cabins have coffee pots and filters if you are like me and rely on that caffeine boost in the morning, don’t forget to bring your own coffee. Sunscreen and bug spray are must haves, and unlike a hotel toiletries are not provided so bring your own travel sized shampoo, etc. If you need a hair dryer, pack that too. Several items that are frequently forgotten by guests like a toothbrush for example are for sale in the gift shop if you find yourself in a pinch.
Deer Lake Cabins Ranch Resort is truly an East Texas hidden gem. It offers something for everyone, regardless of age. I invite you to visit this incredible place where you can connect with nature and start making memories with your loved ones that will last a lifetime.
About The Blogger:
Ciara Polikretis
Ciara is a local East Texas blogger who is in love with the ETX Life. Her work can be found on ETXLife.com
Deer Lake Cabins Photos