Peaceful Stays, Playful Days

Welcome To East Texas!

World-Class Fishing: Lake Fork & Lake Tawakoni

Nestled just 20 minutes from our cabins, you'll discover two of Texas's most legendary fishing destinations: Lake Fork and Lake Tawakoni. Both lakes are renowned for their trophy-sized catches and vibrant fishing scenes, making them a paradise for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you're casting for a record bass or reeling in a monster catfish, these lakes offer an unforgettable experience.

Lake Fork: The Largemouth Bass Capital of Texas

Often called the "Big Bass Capital of Texas," Lake Fork is a premier destination for largemouth bass fishing. Its unique slot limits and rich aquatic habitat have cultivated an environment where giant bass thrive, making it a bucket-list lake for serious anglers.

Annual Tournaments: Lake Fork is a hotspot for major fishing tournaments throughout the year, attracting professional and amateur anglers alike. Events like Bass Champs, Bassmaster Elite Series, Mega Bass, and Sealy Outdoors Big Bass Splash regularly draw large crowds and showcase incredible catches. There are also numerous smaller, local tournaments almost every weekend, offering plenty of opportunities to test your skills against the best.
Record Catches: Lake Fork holds the Texas state record for Largemouth Bass, a colossal 18.18-pound fish caught by Barry St. Clair in 1992. Many of the top 50 biggest largemouth bass ever caught in Texas have come from Lake Fork, cementing its reputation. Beyond bass, Lake Fork also boasts impressive records for other species, including a 100-pound Flathead Catfish and an 89-pound Blue Catfish.

Lake Tawakoni: The Catfish Mecca

Just a short drive in the other direction, Lake Tawakoni stands as a true "Catfish Mecca," particularly famous for its enormous blue catfish. Its vast waters and abundant baitfish create ideal conditions for these whiskered giants.

Annual Tournaments: Lake Tawakoni hosts various fishing tournaments, with a strong focus on catfish and bass. Organizations like the Lake Tawakoni Bass Club and JCO Outdoors frequently hold competitive events throughout the year, including their Spring Teams series. These tournaments offer anglers the chance to compete for impressive prizes and bragging rights.
Record Catches: Lake Tawakoni is home to some truly monstrous catfish. The lake record for Flathead Catfish stands at an incredible 98.7 pounds, caught in 2023, while the record for Blue Catfish is a massive 87.5 pounds, landed in 2014. These impressive figures highlight why Lake Tawakoni is a top choice for trophy catfishing in Texas.

Uncover Treasures at Canton First Monday Trade Days

Just a short 29-mile drive from our cabins, you'll find yourself immersed in a shopping experience like no other at the world-famous Canton First Monday Trade Days. Often called the "oldest and largest continually operated outdoor flea market in the United States," this iconic event is a must-visit for treasure hunters, antique lovers, and anyone looking for a truly unique Texas experience.

What to Expect:

A Vast Marketplace: Spanning over 450 acres with thousands of vendors and hundreds of thousands of square feet of covered shopping, Canton offers an incredible array of goods. You'll discover everything from antique furniture, vintage clothing, and unique collectibles to handcrafted jewelry, home decor, tools, western wear, and much more. It's truly a place where "if you need it, they probably have three of them!"
More Than Just Shopping: Beyond the incredible deals, First Monday Trade Days is an event in itself. You'll find delicious festival foods, live entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere that makes for a fun-filled day out.
When to Visit: Despite its name, First Monday Trade Days actually runs from Thursday through Sunday before the first Monday of each month, year-round. This schedule allows for a full weekend of exploration and shopping. Be sure to check the official Canton First Monday Trade Days calendar before your visit to confirm the exact dates for the month you plan to attend.
Tips for Your Trip: Wear comfortable walking shoes – you'll be doing a lot of exploring! Many vendors prefer cash, so it's a good idea to bring some along. Consider bringing a wagon or cart for your purchases, or renting one on-site, as you're bound to find more than you expect.

Whether you're hunting for a specific antique, decorating your home, or just looking for an entertaining day trip, Canton First Monday Trade Days offers an unparalleled adventure for all ages.

Experience Farm Fresh Fun at Alford Farms

For a delightful taste of local agriculture and a memorable outdoor activity, be sure to visit Alford Family Farm, conveniently located right here in Emory! This charming local farm offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the freshest seasonal produce.

What Makes Alford Family Farm Special:

U-Pick Blueberries (Seasonal): When in season (typically late spring to early summer), Alford Farms transforms into a vibrant haven for blueberry picking. It's a fantastic, family-friendly activity where you can stroll through rows of bushes, enjoy the fresh air, and pick your own delicious, ripe blueberries straight from the plant. There's nothing quite like the taste of freshly picked fruit!
Farm Fresh Food & Produce: Beyond the U-pick experience, Alford Farms also offers a selection of their own farm-fresh food and produce. Depending on the season, you might find other seasonal vegetables, homemade jams, local honey, or other delightful products, all grown or sourced with care. It’s a wonderful way to bring a piece of local flavor back to your cabin.
Support Local: Visiting Alford Farms is also a great way to support local agriculture and experience the true community spirit of Emory.

A Friendly Tip: Blueberry picking is a seasonal activity, so it's always a good idea to check Alford Family Farms' official website or social media pages for their current hours of operation and to confirm what's in season and available for picking or purchase before your visit.