HANKS CREEK

Overview Hanks Creek Park has something for everyone, with plenty of water sports on Sam Rayburn Reservoir and volleyball, mountain biking, wild life viewing and birding for those who want to stay on shore. The Red-cockaded woodpecker, an endangered species, is found throughout the forest surrounding the reservoir. The bird makes its home by pecking cavities in large, living pine trees.

Recreation Fishing is excellent for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish and sunfish, with frequent fishing tournaments. The lake is also popular for jet skiing, water skiing and swimming. Facilities The park features 47 campsites with electric hookups.

Additional amenities include group camping, a playground, boat ramp and hot showers. Natural Features Sam Rayburn Reservoir, also called Lake Sam Rayburn, boasts over 114,000 surface acres, making it the largest man-made lake completely in Texas. It's surrounded by the Angelina National Forest, and is within short proximity to the Sabine and Davy Crockett National Forests.

Nearby Attractions The 20,700-acre Bannister Wildlife Management Area is on the northern peninsula of the lake. Hikers and bikers can come here to explore the designated Eastern Wild Turkey restoration site.