Your Guide to Hiking in East Texas

Your Guide to Hiking in East Texas

Mill Creek Ranch Resort is among the best East Texas resorts with award-winning RV parks and cottage rentals in Canton, TX. Canton is just an hour’s drive from Dallas, and one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the area’s beauty is with a hiking adventure. With each step, you uncover the secrets of East Texas, from towering trees to dazzling lakes. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a novice seeking a serene escape, hiking in East Texas offers a rejuvenating experience that connects you with the beauty of the natural world.

7 Lovely East Texas Hiking Trails Near Canton

  1. Mill Creek Lake Nature Trail: This is an easy and peaceful hiking trail in East Texas that features lovely views of Mill Creek Lake. It is 2.4 miles long and takes a little under an hour to complete. This is a popular nature trail for running, walking, and birdwatching. 
  2. Canton City Lake: Embark on a peaceful hiking journey on this 1.9-mile-long loop. This is a popular nature trail for walking and should take around half an hour to complete. Along the way, you will have stunning views of Canton City Lake.
  3. Beaver Slide Nature Park Loop: This is a serene nature hiking trail loop in East Texas near Canton. Enjoy beautiful views of the lake and Purtis Creek State Park on this 1.63 hiking adventure. 
  4. Wolfpen Hike and Bike Blue Trail: Explore another gorgeous trail in East Texas at Purtis Creek State Park. This rugged 2.15-miles long trail will feature lake views and local wildlife. 
  5. Tyler State Park Lake Loop Trail: Enjoy a scenic East Texas hiking journey on this 2-mile-long loop. This is a well-maintained trail that will provide views of the lovely Lake Tyler and piney woods. This should be a pretty leisurely stroll with minimal elevation gain.
  6. Whispering Pines Nature Trail: Head to this trail for gorgeous views of a small waterfall with plenty of shade from trees. This is a 1.27-mile long loop that is perfect for the whole family to enjoy. 
  7. Cherry Creek Park: This East Texas park features a lovely half-mile hiking trail. This park in Canton, Texas, is also great for family picnics, with a playground, tables, and grills.

Book your stay with Mill Creek Ranch Resort for a hiking adventure suitable for all ages and skill levels!

Best Places to Metal Detect Garrett Memorial Hunt 2023

Best Places to Metal Detect: Garrett Memorial Hunt

The annual Garrett Memorial Hunt in Canton, Texas, is just around the corner. Come and explore the best places to metal detect in East Texas. Whether you’re an experienced treasure hunter or just want to get in on the fun, you’ll find something to love about the Garrett Memorial Hunt. Book your stay in time at the award-winning Mill Creek Ranch Resort. We are among the premier resorts in East Texas. Please browse through our exceptional selection of cottage rentals and RV parks Canton, TX. You won’t be able to imagine staying anywhere else!

The Best Places To Metal Detect in East Texas

The Texas Association of Metal Detecting Clubs (TAMDC) is putting together a 5th Garrett Memorial Hunt this spring! This is among the best places to metal detect in East Texas. Treasure hunters from all over are welcome to Canton, Texas, to join in on the fun! Enjoy an event with great prizes, friendly people, and the best places to metal detect. This extraordinary event is fun for the whole family! There’s a free treasure hunt for children ages 12 and under to enjoy. Concessions will be available at the Civic Center building on Saturday and Sunday. 

 

Here is what the Basic Hunt Package includes:

  • The Basic Hunt Package cost will cover all of the Garrett Memorial Hunt events!
  • You’ll be able to participate in several prize hunts!
  • You’ll get one Garrett Memorial Hunt T-shirt!
  • You can enjoy exploring the best places to metal detect in the designated park grounds for native coins and relics.

 

When: Registration closes on March 1, 2023, at Midnight. The hunt will occur from Friday, April 14, through Sunday, April 16, 2023.

 

Where: The hunt will be in Canton, Texas, on the First Monday (flea market grounds). The address is 800 First Monday Lane, Canton, TX 75103

Book your stay in time at Mill Creek Ranch Resort to enjoy metal detecting fun!

Experience the Music Festivals in Texas

Experience the Bluegrass Music Festivals in East Texas

Get ready for a toe-tapping good time in Canton, Texas. KR Live Music is a father-son duo working to provide high-quality Bluegrass musical festivals in Canton, Texas. Enjoy energetic performances from some of the best local musicians at the upcoming Van Zandt County Bluegrass Festival

 

Mill Creek Ranch Resort has plenty of East Texas cabin-style cottage rentals, tiny houses, and RV parks to stay in while you’re in town for the Van Zandt County Bluegrass Festival. Book your stay in time to immerse yourself in authentic southern bluegrass!

Enjoy Southern Bluegrass at East Texas Music Festivals

The Van Zandt County Bluegrass Festival is one of the upcoming music festivals in Canton, Texas. Here is the inside scoop:

 

When: March 16-18, 2023

 

Where: Canton Civic Center 800 Flea Market Road Canton, Texas 75103

 

Music Line-Up:

 

Thursday, March 16, 2023

  • Anthony Bonnette: Get the party started with this East Texas born and raised Bluegrass musician!

 

Friday, March 17, 2023

  • The Kody Norris Show: Whether you want to call their music style rockabilly, retro, or bluegrass, you will be entertained!
  • Midnight Hollow: Don’t miss this band mentioned in The Bluegrass Standard and Bluegrass Today!
  • Tin Top Road: Have a blast listening to this East Texas gem!
  • Riley Gilbreath and Lone Star Blue: This band has graced many Texas music festivals with incredible performances. 
  • SpringStreet: Enjoy a toe-tapping bluegrass performance from this fantastic band.
  • That Dalton Gang: They may be young, but their music packs a powerful punch!
  • Dueling Hearts: This incredible band comes from the heart of central Texas and performs at many Bluegrass music festivals throughout the year. 
  • Sabine River Bend Bluegrass Band: Enjoy some authentic Texas bluegrass music from musicians with decades of performing experience.

 

Saturday, March 18, 2023

  • The Kody Norris Show: Whether you want to call their music style rockabilly, retro, or bluegrass, you will be entertained!
  • Midnight Hollow: Don’t miss this band mentioned in The Bluegrass Standard and Bluegrass Today!
  • Tin Top Road: Have a blast listening to this East Texas gem!
  • Riley Gilbreath and Lone Star Blue: This band has made an appearance in many Texas music festivals with incredible performances. 
  • SpringStreet: Enjoy a toe-tapping bluegrass performance from this incredible band.
  • That Dalton Gang: They may be young, but their music packs a powerful punch!
  • Dueling Hearts: This fantastic band comes from the heart of central Texas and performs at many Bluegrass music festivals throughout the year.
  • Sabine River Bend Bluegrass Band: Enjoy some authentic Texas bluegrass music from musicians with decades of performing experience.

Book your stay in time with Mill Creek Ranch Resort to experience the  Van Zandt County Bluegrass Festival!

Water Park in Canton, TX

Enjoy a Day at the Water Park in Canton, TX

Summertime is a relaxing time to enjoy the sun and just derive joy from the feeling of cool water on your skin. Splash Kingdom Water Park in Canton, TX, provides the ideal getaway for children and adults in East Texas in the intense summer heat. It may currently be winter, but now is the ideal time to start planning for your summer vacation! At our award-winning Mill Creek Ranch Resort, you and your children can participate in a wide range of activities on your summer vacation. Secure one of our plush accommodations at our RV resort in East Texas before you set out to explore the water park in Canton, TX.

About Splash Kingdom Water Park

Located off Interstate 20 between Dallas and Tyler in East Texas is Splash Kingdom. This water park in Canton, TX, is a fantastic place to visit with your family and friends. Even if you are in the area, this is an excellent site for a “staycation” or weekend trip!

 

The Canton, TX, water park is open every day from Memorial Day weekend to mid-August. Then only on weekends through Labor Day. You can purchase a 2023 season pass ahead of time. 

 

Attractions at the water park for every member of the family include:

  • A 17,000 square wave pool
  • Two multi-ride tube slides
  • Two high-speed body slides
  • A thrilling cannon-bowl body slide
  • A 900-foot-long hazy river
  • A special Kids Kingdom with a smaller 7,000 square-foot children’s pool with a fun water play structure and slides.

 

Have a fantastic lunch at the onsite diner, which serves burgers, pizzas, and other tasty treats. After a refreshing time in the water park in Canton, TX, you can drop by the adjacent family entertainment center and enjoy arcade games.

Stay Down the Road From The Water Park in Canton, TX

Return to your cottage rental at Mill Creek Ranch Resort after a thrilling time at the water park in Canton, TX. Our cottage rentals and RV sites allow guests to be acquitted with nature and modern luxuries during their stay. We are one of the premier East Texas RV park resorts and are just a few miles away from the Splash Kingdom. Book your stay with us today! Check our availability online

The Benefits of Staying in Texas RV Parks vs. Hotels

The Benefits of East Texas RV Parks vs. Hotels

When it comes to travel accommodations, many people automatically turn to hotels. While hotels can sometimes be the right choice, the Mill Creek Ranch Resort team put together this informative blog post on the perks of our East Texas RV parks. There are many Canton accommodation options at Mill Creek Ranch Resort besides hotel rooms, such as our award-winning East Texas RV parks and cottage rentals. So keep an open mind while booking your trip to Canton, Texas!

The Top 4 Benefits of Staying in East Texas RV Parks

  1. East Texas RV parks come with a community experience you can never get from hotels. Imagine nights huddled around the campfire, sharing stories with your fellow travelers.
  2. Hotel rooms can get pretty claustrophobic if you have more than a couple of people in your travel group. In one of the East Texas RV parks at Mill Creek Ranch Resort, you can bring the comfort of your home with you on your travels. Your family or travel companions can have plenty of space. At Mill Creek Ranch Resort RV sites, we offer plush amenities, such as full hook-ups for water, sewer, electric, WiFi internet, a camp store with grocery items, extra clean showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities.
  3. Speaking of space, at one of our East Texas RV parks, you have the option to go on peaceful walks. Whether it’s to enjoy some alone time during your trip or as a fun group activity, the great outdoors provides the perfect opportunity to relax. In a cramped hotel room, it’s a lot harder to have that much-needed break from your surroundings. Introverts will especially understand this, but even the biggest extrovert needs their alone time.
  4. A stressful part of traveling is packing. First, you have to figure out what you need, and then you need to find a way to stuff it into the limited space of your suitcase. When staying in one of the fabulous East Texas RV parks, you can reasonably bring as many comforts from home as you want! From bikes to paddle boards and other equipment you would otherwise have to rent if you stayed in a hotel.

Book your stay today in one of the Canton, Texas, RV parks at Mill Creek Ranch Resort!

Explore One of the Best Christmas Towns in Texas

Explore One of the Best Christmas Towns in Texas

Canton Texas is one of the best towns in Texas to celebrate Christmas with its warm small town charm and enchanting Christmas activities. Canton is nestled in East Texas and is surrounded by other towns and cities with vibrant Christmas fun to explore. That’s why Mill Creek Ranch Resort put together this guide on the best things to do for Christmas in East Texas. 

 

Mill Creek Ranch Resort has an impressive selection of cabin/cottage rentals and RV Parks with many incredible amenities in Canton, Texas. From nature trails, to fishing ponds, there’s so much fun to enjoy on-site at our resort. Book your stay today at Mill Creek Ranch Resort to have the Christmas of your dreams.

Best Christmas Festivities in the East Texas Towns & Cities

  1. Canton Christmas Festival: Come and discover why Canton is one of the best Christmas towns in Texas. There will be tons of fun activities, the annual Christmas Marketplace, a parade, photo ops with Santa, live entertainment, and much more!  
  2. Enchant Magic: Become enchanted by the largest Christmas light maze in the world. Explore the story-themed maze and enjoy ice skating, live entertainment, dining, shopping, and guest star appearances from Santa & Mrs. Claus. 
  3. Canton Festival of Trees: Every year the Canton Texas Chamber of Commerce puts on this annual fundraiser where the town’s local organizations compete for the best Christmas tree.
  4. Yesterland Farms Christmas Carnival: Meet Santa, enjoy delicious holiday treats, a petting zoo, rides, a corn maze, and more in Canton, TX. This is another great Christmas celebration in one of the best Christmas towns in Texas. 
  5. Holiday in the Park at Six Flags: Experience one of the most iconic theme parks decked in holiday decorations and festive activities.
  6. Santa Land: Take a drive though one of the best East Texas Christmas lights shows in one of the nearby towns to Canton,TX.
  7. Dallas Zoo Lights: Walk through dazzling holiday lights, sculptures and decorations at the Dallas Zoo. There will also be holiday treats and a chance to meet Santa in his workshop. 
  8. Polar Express: Experience one of the best Christmas stories coming to life in one of the nearby towns to Canton, Texas. Hop on the polar express to enjoy the holiday treats and meet the characters from The Polar Express story.

Book your stay today at Mill Creek Ranch Resort to explore one of the best Christmas towns in Texas!

Spend a Night Out at the Bars in Canton Texas

Spend a Night Out at the Bars in Canton Texas

Mill Creek Ranch Resort is an award-winning RV park and resort in Canton, Texas. Canton is well known for its First Monday Trade Days, but there are also many other fun things to do in the area for a fun night out. Choose the vacation rental of your dreams from our premium selection of cottages, RV park sites, tiny houses, and yurts for rent in Canton, TX. 

During your vacation at one of the best resorts in East Texas, you’ll want to make time for a fun night out at the bars in Canton. We put together this guide to help you discover the best spots to check out in Canton for a night to remember for a lifetime!

The 5 Best Bars in Canton, Texas

  1. The Kickin Mule: With a welcoming atmosphere and hospitable staff, this is one of the must-see bars in Canton. They also have yummy food on their classic American cuisine menu. This bar sports an impressive 4-star rating on Yelp from 87 reviews.
  2. Craft 64 Burgers & Sports: Check out this Canton bar if you’re looking for great local craft brews and yummy food. They have an excellent 4-star rating on Yelp from 152 reviews.
  3. Wine Down: As the name suggests, this is one of the best bars in Canton for wine connoisseurs. With an excellent 4.5-star rating on Yelp from 8 reviews, it’s worth checking out! 
  4. The Forge Bar and Grill: Just a short drive from Canton, this is one of the best bars in the area. They have lots of live music and special events for you to check out during your vacation. With a near-perfect 4.5-star rating on Yelp from 88 reviews, you’ll want to check this bar out during your night out in Canton, TX.
  5. La Pradera Mexican Restaurant: For the best margaritas in Canton and delicious Mexican cuisine, check out this restaurant and bar. Our personal favorite is the watermelon margarita.

Stay at One of the Best Resorts and RV Parks in East Texas

After a night out at the bars in Canton, rest your head at one of the best resorts and RV parks in East Texas. Our resort features an abundance of excellent amenities like catch and release fishing ponds, designer swimming pools, 200 acres for you to explore on the resort nature trails, and so much more. Book your stay today at Mill Creek Ranch Resort to experience the vacation of a lifetime.

A Checklist of the Best Museums in East Texas

A Checklist of the Best Museums in East Texas

East Texas is rich in history and culture, with lots of cool museums to explore. You can explore the best museums in East Texas when you book your stay at the award-winning resort and RV park, Mill Creek Ranch Resort. We offer cabin-style cottages, yurts, tiny homes, and RV sites for rent in Canton, Texas. Have a thrilling vacation when you stay at Mill Creek Ranch Resort, and follow our checklist of the best museums in East Texas.

Best Museums in East Texas Checklist

  • Blackwell House Museum: This museum is in the oldest house in Canton, Texas, and was built in 1886.
  • Camp Ford: Come and visit the historic site of what once was the largest camp for prisoners of the American Civil War west of the Mississippi River. 
  • Cotton Belt Depot Train Museum: Learn about the history and prime of the Texas railroad industry at this fantastic museum. 
  • Depot Museum: Explore eight restored buildings from the history of East Texas in this unique museum complex.
  • Discovery Place Children’s Museum: Discover the many engaging exhibits and programs at this fantastic East Texas museum the whole family will enjoy.
  • East Texas African American Museum: This is an important East Texas museum with the mission to “both preserve and transcend a painful past.” 
  • East Texas Arboretum: Explore one of the most gorgeous museums in East Texas which features lush trees, flowers, and wildlife. Then take a trip back to the pioneer days at the historic Wofford House Museum. 
  • East Texas Oil Museum: Experience what it was like to live during the oil discovery period in the 1930s when you visit the East Texas Oil Museum. 
  • Heritage Park Museum of East Texas: Step back in time at this museum with 20 restored buildings that show what life in East Texas was like from the 1800s to the 1920s.
  • Historic Aviation Memorial Museum: Check this place out to learn about how aviation has played a role in American history.
  • Historic Upshur Museum: This is one of the best museums to learn about what life was like for people living in East Texas throughout the years.
  • Naranjo Museum of Natural History: This is one of the furthest East Texas museums from Mill Creek Ranch Resort on this list, but it has tons of remarkable prehistoric fossils and exhibits to explore.
  • Grand Saline Salt Palace: Learn about the history of salt discovery and production in the world’s only building made of pure rock salt. 
  • Tyler Museum of Art: Come here to explore one of the best art museums in East Texas.
  • The Longview Museum of Fine Arts: This is another one of the best East Texas museums to enjoy the fine arts. 
  • Texas Country Music Hall of Fame: Come here to celebrate the biggest country music stars from Texas.

Book your stay today and explore the best museums in East Texas!

A Guide to Restaurants in Canton, TX

A Guide to Restaurants in Canton, TX

If you are planning to visit Canton, TX, one of the first things that come to mind is where you should eat. Texas has a rich food culture, and this city is no exception. The team at Mill Creek Ranch Resort is here to help. We’ve helped many guests staying at our award-winning resort and RV park find restaurants in Canton, TX, that they love. Without further ado, here’s a list of some of our favorite restaurants in Canton, TX. 

Popular Restaurants in Canton, TX

Whether you are visiting for business or having fun with your family, you’ll need to find some good food around Canton, TX. We’re happy to point you in the right direction; here are a few of our favorites. 

Dairy Palace

Since 1984, Dairy Palace has been an informal, family-friendly, family-owned restaurant in Canton, TX. They are open 8 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week, offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, and more than ice cream varieties from Blue Bell Creamery and Henry’s Home Made. This restaurant has long been a Canton, TX, staple and is definitely worth a stop when in the area.

Moma T’s BBQ

Texas is world-famous for its barbecue, so if you want to get a taste of it, head to Moma T’s BBQ. At Moma T’s BBQ, you’ll enjoy smoked meats and delicious sauces. Whether you want sliced brisket, ribs, or a hearty sandwich, Moma T’s BBQ has you covered. While it can be tempting to fill up on their main courses, try to save room for dessert; they offer fabulous cheesecakes and cakes that are a delightful way to end a meal. 

Val’s Italian Restaurant & Pizza

If you’re visiting Canton, TX, with your family, it’s hard to go wrong with pizza, and Val’s Italian Restaurant & Pizza is serving up some of the best pizza in the area. In addition to pizza, Val’s also offers Italian classics, like eggplant parmesan and a wide variety of pasta dishes. Val’s provides great value, tasty meals, and a family-friendly atmosphere. 

Enjoy Canton, TX, Your Way

After visiting the best restaurants in Canton, TX, come back and relax at your well-appointed accommodations at Mill Creek Ranch Resort. We offer cottage-style rentals, yurt rentals, and RV campsites in Canton, TX, allowing you to vacation your way. We can’t wait to see you! Check our upcoming availability now and book your stay with us online.

The Rose garden in Tyler, Texas.

Spend an Afternoon in Tyler, TX

Tyler is known as the “Rose Capital of America,” where you’ll discover a city full of beauty and history. Located just 35 miles from Canton, TX, it’s the perfect place to plan a day trip. There are lots of things to do in Tyler for everyone, including:

  • Tyler State Park
  • Camp Ford Historic Park
  • Caldwell Zoo
  • Tyler Rose Garden

Things to Do in Tyler, TX

Whether you’re traveling for a family vacation or a couple’s retreat, you’ll have a blast in Tyler.

1. Tyler State Park

Tyler is a fantastic destination for spending time in the outdoors. Tyler State Park is one of the top things to do in Tyler, and it’s located just north of town. The state park is great for recreation and sightseeing.

Go on hikes or nature walks through the pine tree forests for a chance to spot wildlife and diverse flora. Cool off with a refreshing swim in the park lake or rent boats for a day out on the water. 

2. Camp Ford Historic Park

Tyler is a historical town in Texas. Camp Ford is one of the most historical sites you’ll encounter that gives you a glimpse into the town’s past. Camp Ford is a large prison that was run by the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. It was used from 1863 to 1865 but now a popular tourist attraction.

Take the walking trail around the park to read the designated information plaques about restored cabins and see rendered photos of how it used to look. 

3. Caldwell Zoo

The Caldwell Zoo is always a highlight to those visiting Tyler. It’s one of the best family-friendly activities during a day trip. You’ll have the opportunity to see animals from around the world in one place, so take advantage of it! 

The zoo holds thousands of animals. Some of the popular animals include elephants, giraffes, tigers, jaguars, and penguins. There are also several marine animal species in the aquarium. Kids will have a lot of fun feeding the animals or playing on the playground. 

4. Tyler Rose Garden

Did you know that the city of Tyler is famous for roses? The Tyler Rose Garden is a must-visit place during your trip. The Tyler Rose Garden is perfect for an afternoon leisure walk through the manicured garden landscape. Sightsee the decorative features like fountains and colorful flower arrangements. Grab a seat on a park bench and enjoy the tranquil setting.

The garden includes an on-site museum showcasing exhibitions about the local Rose Festival, which happens every year since the 1930s. 

Extended Weekend Getaways in Texas: Welcome to Mill Creek

You’ll have a full day with lots of exploring and sightseeing the favorite things to do in Tyler. Retreat for the night at the Mill Creek Ranch Resort for cozy accommodations. It offers modern cottage rentals or an RV park. The charming cottages are suitable for a couple or a family where you’ll have a full kitchen, living room, and upgraded amenities.

Call 903-567-6020 for more information about cottage rentals, and start planning your ideal Tyler day trip!

Trade Days Lodging Canton TX

Mill Creek Ranch Resort makes for perfect Trade Days Lodging

Trade Days Lodging Canton TXCanton’s First Monday Trade Days is an age-old tradition in East Texas, as well as the nation’s largest flea market. Trade Days consists of 450 acres of booths; if you want to see everything, plan on attending more than one day. It’s also nearly impossible to make a day trip out of it from DFW. By the time you make the drive and park, your morning is nearly over. If you’re a first-timer, you will want to take advantage of Trade Days lodging options in the Canton area. Here are some tips for finding area lodging:

Make sure it’s close to the market

You’re not staying a night in a hotel just to drive an hour to Trade Days. Make sure the place you pick is in Canton, or very close. Trust us, you don’t want to spend extra time driving after a day of walking, shopping, haggling and funnel cakes.

Ask if they do a shuttle

Trade Days is a huge event in the area. Before you book, ask if your accommodations provide a shuttle to the market. This also saves you the headache of parking. Should you decide to purchase a larger item, like furniture, you can always swing back by the pavilion to pick it up.

Look for other amenities

You may be so excited you just can’t hide it about a weekend chock-full of antiquing. However, your travel partners may not share the same sentiment. Look for a place that has other activities (like a pool, spa, live music, golf, etc) in the event one of your travel companions and kids would rather relax while you shop the 2nd day. Relaxing amenities (like a hot tub) will also soothe some sore feet at the end of the day.

Book Ahead

The Trade Days lodging options in Canton tend to sell out – so plan ahead, and book ahead.

Ask if they have dining options

Given that the whole town of Canton fills up during Trade Days, it goes without saying that the restaurants do too – at least for dinner! Look for a place that has an on-site dining option or in-room kitchenettes to save lengthy waits at area restaurants.

Mill Creek Ranch Resort is the perfect place for Trade Days Lodging. We are only 1/4 of a mile from the Marketplace and provide a shuttle to the main pavilions. Our property also has a relaxing pool, hot tub, scenic nature trails and even an on-site spa so you can relax after a harried day of shopping. We also have a restaurant in our Grand Lodge and live music Friday nights. We do fill up, though, so book ahead for the next First Monday Trade Days by calling 877-927-3439.

Trade Days Lodging Canton TX
Mill Creek Ranch Resort
1880 N Trade Days Blvd
Canton, Texas 75103
(877) 927-3439

spring break canton tx

An East Texas Resort for Spring Break? Yes!

east texas resort for spring breakSpring break is right around the corner. If you’re hoping to get away, it’s not too late to book a family trip to an East Texas Resort. Spring break is the perfect time to recapture the slower pace and family closeness you shared over the winter holidays while enjoying the freshness that comes from spring weather as nature starts to wake up.

What can your family do outdoors?

  • Play disc-golf! It’s the perfect opportunity for the kids to learn some finesse from grandpa or mom. Ramp up the fun (and competitive) factor by having “closest-to-hole” prizes on certain holes. A prize bucket with candy provides the extra motivation to hone your flinging skills.
  • Take a nature walk. Spring is the perfect time to look at the daily progress trees make as their leaves unfold more each day. What a perfect opportunity to talk about turning over a new leaf, fresh starts, and the beauty of the natural world. Bonus: who can spot the most types of trees? Bigger bonus: who can spot the most bird nests?
  • Paddle boat races! If that’s not your speed, perhaps some paddle boat dawdling while you enjoy the water will do that trick? Either way, paddle boats are a great way to get on the lake. Bonus: you can introduce your family to life without electronics for a while!
  • Whether you’re a novice or experienced angler, fishing in a stocked pond is always a springtime pleasure.
  • Early spring evenings are often rather nippy; gather around a fire pit and make s’mores! Who can resist that warm, gooey, chocolatey goodness?
  • Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit! Whether you hit the gorgeous pool or relax in a hot tub, the water is always a great place to spend time with the family.

What can your family do indoors?

  • Board games and puzzles provide the perfect way to sit down and connect with your family during spring break. Whether you’re working on an intense game of chess or laughing at charades, your family can make memories and strengthen bonds from the comfort of your own cabin.
  • Take time to cook together. Does your family have a special recipe you’d love to pass down to your kids? Using your “extra” time on vacation to teach and feed your kids provides a lifetime of memories for them, and it’s also nice on the budget.
  • Color! Coloring books for all ages are the rage right now. They’re easy to transport and great to have on hand for the unexpected rainy day. Bonus: let everyone have the opportunity to DJ your coloring time and start learning to appreciate all the styles of music your family enjoys. You may find your tastes are more similar than you had thought.

East Texas might not be the obvious choice for spring break, but a few days at a cabin in the beauty of the piney woods could be the perfect way for your family to enjoy the beginning of a new season. The Mill Creek Resort Ranch offers your family all of the options mentioned, and many more, too! You won’t want to miss all the activities our events coordinator is cooking up–excursions, crafts, and more. Let Mill Creek Resort Ranch host your family for a spring break vacation filled with memories for a lifetime, all at an

”East
Mill Creek Ranch Resort
1880 N Trade Days Blvd
Canton, Texas 75103
(877) 927-3439

.

Wedding Venues In East Texas: Make Your Valentine’s Wedding Special

Wedding Venues In East Texas: Make Your Valentine’s Wedding SpecialAre you looking for wedding venues in East Texas for your fairytale spring wedding? Have you considered a fairytale winter wedding – one that happens on Valentine’s Day? There really is no other day of the year that’s so linked to romance than Valentine’s Day and there’s no other day of the year that’s better for an impossible-to-forget anniversary than February 14th. Once you make the decision to have your wedding on Valentine’s Day, the possibilities for creating the perfect romantic setting for your special day are almost endless.

♥ Stay with traditional Valentine’s colors and carry a bouquet full of pink, white and red peonies, roses, ranunculus and sweet peas. Use the same color palette for the flowers in your groom’s boutonnière and for the flowers you use to decorate your seating area and arbor.

♥ Your decor can also include Valentine’s pink, red and white; but you can add some visual interest with complementary touches of gray, coral, silver and even black. Crystal candleholders on shimmery table linens coupled with pink-hued ambient lighting will add a warm, romantic glow to your reception area and dance floor.

♥ Instead of a guest book set out pink writing paper and pencils or vintage children’s Valentine’s cards and ask guests to write “love letters” to, or about, you and your groom or about their own wedding day experiences.

♥ Make sure the playlist for your reception is full of romantic songs that will have everyone dancing cheek-to-cheek. Ask your guests to send some song ideas to you along with their RSVPs so that you can have at least a few songs playing at your reception that will honor your guests and show them how much they mean to you.

♥ Pile on the sweets. In addition to a heart-covered wedding cake filled with fresh strawberries, make sure your baker supplies your wedding guests with cupcakes with pink frosting, individual flourless cakes drizzled with raspberry sauce, and chocolate-dipped fruit.

♥ Dress the part for an old-fashioned, romantic wedding. Choose a dress and veil with lots of lace or find a dress that reminds you of 1950s movie star dresses with fitted, sleeveless bodices and full skirts. Consider a color other than icy white; try on a light pink dress or an ivory dress with a pale, pink sash. Choose varying shades of pink for your bridesmaids’ dresses and ask your groom to wear a pink tie.

When you’re looking for wedding venues in East Texas for your Valentine’s Day wedding, keep in mind that our mild, Texas weather means you could have an outdoor wedding that will create even more possibilities when it comes to decorating and lighting. At Mill Creek Ranch Resort, we are one of the finest wedding venues in East Texas and we’ll help you make your Valentine’s wedding a day to remember. Call us at (877) 927-3439 or visit us online at www.millcreekranchresort.com to find out more.

Wedding Venues In East Texas: 6 Tips For A Great Outdoor Wedding

Wedding Venues in East TexasOutdoor weddings are steadily gaining in popularity and if you’re thinking about booking one of the many wedding venues in East Texas for your ceremony, there is one important thing you need to know to make your outdoor wedding a success – outdoor weddings require twice as much planning and preparation as indoor weddings. Unpredictable weather plus the natural setting are the main reasons that outdoor wedding venues in East Texas can be challenging.  Here are some tips that will ensure you’re prepared for some little and not-so-little outdoor wedding problems:

1 – Plan For Heat

This is Texas and even a winter wedding can be a scorcher.  Spring and summer ceremonies, especially, should be timed to take place right before sunset.  If that’s not possible, provide your guests with some kind of cover, in the form of a tent or parasols.  Putting your wedding program on a handheld fan is another way of helping your guests stay cool.  In addition, make sure they have plenty of options for staying hydrated and that means having containers filled with ice and bottled water, lemonade, sodas tea and even popsicles scattered around your venue.

2 – Protect Against Wind Gusts

Again, this is Texas and it’s almost always windy.  Don’t choose a frothy, lightweight fabric that can get blown up in the wind for your gown or for your bridesmaids’ gowns and to keep your veil from flying away, try veil weights. Make sure your stylist takes the wind into account when you’re having your hair done – stick to a head-hugging bun or copious amounts of hairspray.

3 – Keep Stilettos From Sinking Into The Ground

To keep stiletto heels from sinking into the ground, make sure that everyone has heel covers or make sure there is a solid surface, like a paving stone, for each member of your wedding party (and you) to stand on during the ceremony.

4 – Keep Bugs Away

Consider placing citronella candles around the seating area to keep mosquitoes away.  You can also offer small spray bottles of bug spray to your guests if you’re really expecting a problem.  Keep your food covered by using net canopies over food tables or covering individual plates with glass domes.  Make sure bugs don’t get into cold drinks by covering them with upside down cupcake papers with holes in the middle for straws.

5 – Don’t Forget A Microphone

The sounds of nature may keep your guests from hearing your officiant and you or your spouse talking during the ceremony.  Renting a basic sound system with clip-on microphones for the three of you will ensure that everyone hears your vows.

6 – Let Nature Do The Decorating

The one really big upside to having an outdoor wedding is, of course, the outdoors.  With trees and greenery around, birds tweeting and the sun setting in a beautiful palette of purples and oranges, you don’t have to make much of an effort to add to the romance of the setting.  A decorative trellis for the ceremony, some fairy lights or lanterns in the trees, your bouquet and flower centerpieces are all you need to make your wedding impressive.  

 


 

To find out more about one of the finest outdoor wedding venues in East Texas, Mill Creek Ranch Resort, visit www.millcreekranchresort.com.  To schedule your big day, call our social events manager at Mill Creek Ranch Resort at (877) 927-3439.

bachelorette weekend vacation package

Wedding Venues In East Texas: 5 Steps To A Great Bachelorette Weekend

bachelorette weekend vacation packageIf you’re a maid of honor looking for a great location for a bachelorette weekend, take a look at wedding venues in East Texas. Why are wedding venues a great idea for your bride’s pre-wedding get-together with her friends? Because wedding venues in East Texas are already set up for multiple guests, usually have great amenities and are normally situated close to the entertainment and nightlife that can make a bachelorette weekend memorable. Finding that great location is just one of many steps you’ll have to take as the chief party planner; but if you keep it simple and stick with these 5 basic steps, you’ll end up with the best bachelorette weekend ever:

1. Ask For Help
Make a list of all of the tasks you have in planning the weekend ahead of time – then ask other members of the bridal party for help with each one, whether it’s coordinating with the resort or hotel, making restaurant reservations, decorating, creating invitations, etc. Even if you’re a control freak, letting some of the decision-making fall to others and getting help means less stress for you.

2. Talk To The Bride.
Of course, she’s your friend, but don’t assume you know what she’ll want in her bachelorette weekend. Talk to her and ask her where she prefers to have her weekend, what kinds of activities she wants you to plan and who she wants (and doesn’t want) at her party. Does she want the weekend to be one, long nightclub crawl or a peaceful weekend of shopping, mani-pedis and romantic comedies? She might surprise you.

3. Think About Budgets And Travel Time
When choosing a location for the party, take costs and travel distances into consideration. If your guests are chipping in, make sure that you don’t price people out of the weekend by choosing a super-expensive venue. And try to choose a location that is as easy as possible for the majority of your guests to get to. You’re not going to be able to please everyone with the location, but you can try to please the guests who are most important to the bride.

4. Do Some Scouting
Once the location is decided on, it’s time for a field trip or two to find out firsthand what the venue you’ve chosen has to offer your guests. If it’s close to a city that has restaurants, bars and other entertainment, check them out and make reservations as early as possible once you know how many guests will be there for the weekend and what kinds of activities the bride wants.

5. Go With The Flow
A hitch or two in your plans is inevitable so don’t worry too much when something does go wrong. From inclement weather to no-shows to lost reservations, there are an almost endless number of reasons you might end up pulling your hair out in bunches. Just make the best of it! As long as your bride is happy and everyone has a good time, don’t sweat the things that are out of your control.

When you’re ready to start looking at wedding venues in East Texas for a bachelorette weekend, start with Mill Creek Ranch Resort. At Mill Creek Ranch Resort, you can rent cottages and cabins for your girls that have all the comforts of home with amenities that will make them feel like they’re at a five-star resort. Visit us online at www.millcreekranchresort.com to find out more about us or call us at (877) 927-3439 to make a reservation for the best bachelorette weekend ever.

Wedding Venues In East Texas
Mill Creek Ranch Resort
1880 N Trade Days Blvd
Canton, Texas 75103
(877) 927-3439

Wedding Venues In East Texas: 5 Tips For Selecting The Right Location

Wedding Venues In East Texas: 5 Tips For Selecting The Right Location

Wedding Venues In East Texas: 5 Tips For Selecting The Right LocationWhen you’re planning your wedding and trying to choose from available wedding venues in East Texas, there are quite a few things you must keep in mind besides the first things that usually come to mind like price and availability.  But since you may not know exactly what to look for in a great wedding venue, here are 5 tips that will help:

1 – Choose A Central Location

Remember your guest list and where everyone is traveling from to get to your wedding.  The venue should be as close to centrally-located as possible to get friends and relatives there easily, specifically those friends and relatives who are driving to your wedding.  For guests who will arrive by plane, the location you choose should be within a short driving distance from a medium- or large-sized airport.  Just because you might live in a large city like Dallas, remember that wedding venues in East Texas are a short drive from the city and offer rustic chic charm.  

2 – Take Travel And Traffic Into Account

Even though you’ve settled on a wedding venue that’s centrally-located, that still doesn’t guarantee it will be easy to get to.  Make sure you take a test drive from a couple of different directions to the location you’ve chosen to make sure Google Maps or a GPS will give your guests accurate and up-to-date directions.  You must also think about traffic.  If your wedding is planned for a Friday evening, any guests coming from congested areas will take longer getting to you.

3 – Keep Accommodations In Mind

Some of your guests may travel longer than others and some may just want to make a weekend of your wedding, so be sure that the location you choose either has on-site lodgings or other accommodations nearby.  Check with your guests to find out which ones will likely want to stay overnight and make reservations for rooms or cabins ahead of time.  In most cases, you can cancel fairly close to the day of the event without having to pay a penalty.

4 – Think About The Wedding Style You Want

You can narrow down your search list if you decide early the kind of wedding style you want.  Do you want an outdoor ceremony or an indoor one?  Do you want rustic or refined?  Do you want casual or formal?  Some wedding venues can offer you more than just one choice so ask the event coordinator at each venue you’re considering for photos of past weddings they’ve hosted, if available, so you can get some idea what each kind of wedding would look like at that venue.  

5 – Make Sure Your Venue Can Handle All Of Your Guests

Another question to ask the event coordinator is how many guests the site can handle.  You don’t want to have to uninvite someone because there isn’t enough room for them.  And because guests don’t always RSVP within the required time or they sometimes bring their own guests without telling you, ask how much extra you’ll be charged for surprise guests.

Take some of the worry out of your wedding by choosing one of the finest wedding venues in East Texas, Mill Creek Ranch Resort, for your wedding.  At Mill Creek Ranch Resort, you can be sure that you’ll have the wedding you’ve always dreamed of in a beautiful location with the help of an experienced staff.  Call our social events manager at (877) 927-3439 or visit https://millcreekrr.staging.wpengine.com/meetings-events/weddings/ to find out more about wedding packages at Mill Creek Ranch Resort.

Where to Stay in Canton TX: Pro Tips for Best Deals on Canton Lodging

Where to Stay in Canton TX

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you’re wondering where to stay in Canton TX, and you are looking for a family friendly solution, vacation cabin rentals can be a great option. Here are some tips to help you find a great place and have a wonderful vacation and get the best value .

Plan Early: Plan and book your vacation rental ahead of time to make sure that the place you really want to stay is available, especially if you’re traveling during high season. Booking ahead also means if you have any special requests, the place can probably accommodate you. (Like neighboring cabins for multiple parties.) This also gives you ample time to compare rates and accommodations on where to stay in Canton TX.

 

Know what you need: Where to stay in Canton TX is usually answered by who is in your travel group and what needs they have. It helps to know exactly what you’re looking for. Do you need a place that can accommodate small children? Are you planning on bringing the family pet? Does someone in your part require an accessible room? Don’t hesitate to call ahead to make sure that Canton lodging facility can accommodate all your requests so you don’t show up to the unhappy surprise that they can’t meet your needs.

 

Look for Deals: When where to stay in Canton TX depends on finding the best deal, don’t be afraid of booking ahead.  Often the best deals are for those who plan way ahead of time, or during off season. Don’t see any deals? Ask! Sometimes canton lodging places offer a package deal with other area attractions, or offer a discount if you book an extra night or two. Booking during the week can be more affordable than booking a weekend or on First Monday Trade Days weekends, so think outside the box when planning your family vacation.  A Wednesday, Thursday, Friday vacation often offers a great value, even on First Monday, as there will be Trade Days shops open on Thursday and Friday and some great Friday night events, like live local music at The Creek.

 

Look past price per night for value: Value comes in many forms, and it isn’t just the nightly rate. If the rental has a kitchenette or full kitchen, you can save a bundle cooking one or two meals a day instead of eating out every meal. Other value options to look for: on-site events and amenities, family friendly, live entertainment, beautiful scenery, proximity to First Monday events, etc.
If you’re looking for where to stay in Canton TX that’s fun for the whole family, Mill Creek Ranch Resort has loads of activities for the adults and kiddos alike, and even for pets! Our cottages come with a full kitchen, grills, and plenty of scenery. We also have paddle boats, swimming pools, nature trails and plenty more to keep everybody busy and having fun, in addition to some of the great attractions in the Canton area. We even have rainy day activities like movies, board games and more! For more information on rates and availability, call us at 877-927-3439 or book online!

Where to stay in Canton TX
Mill Creek Ranch Resort
1880 N Trade Days Blvd
Canton, Texas 75103
(877) 927-3439

TOP 6 ITEMS ON THE ‘MUST DO’ LIST WHEN NOT STAYING IN A HOTEL IN CANTON TX

6. When not staying in a hotel in Canton TX visit the beautiful Edgewood Heritage Park historic outdoor museum and the Blackwell House, Canton’s oldest residence.   As described on their website, this outdoor museum encompasses 20 authentically restored and furnished structures representing rural life in East Texas from the 1800’s to the 1920’s.

5 .  If golfing is your thing, you won’t want to miss visiting the championship Twin Lakes Golf Course.  Ranked by Texas Outside as one of the top 10 golf facilities in Texas.  Twin Lakes was designed to challenge serious players while still giving novices a great place to learn to play.  The picturesque course was designed around two beautiful lakes and a 1,000 acre tree farm giving the course a beautiful tranquility.

4.  When not staying in a hotel in Canton TX we recommend visiting theYesterland Farm for a nostalgic step back in time — it’s old-fashioned fun on the farm with a new twist! From Fall festivities to a holiday wonderland of Christmas trees and Santa, it’s all farm-tastic family entertainment.

3.  For a change of pace, visit the Edwin L. Cox, Jr., Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center (TFFC).  The TFFC website indicates they combine visitation and outdoor education with a production fish hatchery. The Center’s mission is to provide an educational, entertaining visitor experience that promotes freshwater sport fishing and the enhancement, conservation and stewardship of aquatic resources in Texas.

2. TripAdvisor.com describes Canton’s First Monday Trade Days as the self-professed oldest and largest flea market in the United States including more than 7,000 vendors.  The event draws up to 500,000 people and is held each month on the Thursday through Sunday preceding the first Monday of the month.  If you want to visit First Monday Trade Days be sure to book your hotel in Canton TX far in advance, as accommodations fill fast!

And FINALLY and most importantly:

1. Don’t stay in a hotel in Canton TX!  Instead, stay in the fabulous resort at Mill Creek Ranch Resort where not only will you have beautiful and relaxing accommodations, you’ll enjoy our fabulous amenities including: concierge service; stocked fishing ponds; paddle boats; live music, full bar and great food every Friday night at “The Creek” in the Grand Lodge; swimming pools; hot tub; beautiful playground; disc golf course; places for bike riding; a dog park; volleyball; basketball; horse shoes; etc.  You get the idea, there’s truly something for everyone at Mill Creek Ranch Resort.

Hotel Canton TX
Mill Creek Ranch Resort
2102 N. Trade Days Blvd
Canton, Texas 75103
877-927-3439

Benefits of Staying at Mill Creek Ranch Resort’s Texas Vacation Rentals Vs. Hotel Rooms

When it’s time to get away from it all how do you decide where to stay and what to do? There are always those ‘vanilla’ hotel rooms that we tend to lean towards because it’s what we’re used to doing…OR you can spice up your vacation experience by staying in one of many Texas vacation rentals at Mill Creek Ranch Resort.

 

What ARE the differences between Texas vacation rentals versus hotel rooms? There are some similarities: both commonly have televisions, coffee pots, comfortable beds, a community pool and a number of ADA units available for the enjoyment of their guests. But the differences are numerous and remarkable!

 

Although hotel rooms generally have room for a bed to sleep in and a television to watch, Texas vacation rentals at Mill Creek Ranch Resort are upscale fully furnished cottage units with a fully equipped kitchen where all you need bring is the food! We also have a great living space where you can relax, much better than making that bed your sofa and recliner!

Hotels are usually surrounded by…more hotels! Texas vacation rentals at Mill Creek Ranch Resort on the other hand are surrounded by the peaceful great outdoors of Texas. Other outdoor amenities offered at Mill Creek Ranch Resort Texas vacation rentals that aren’t usually found at hotels are private covered patios and decks, many times with outdoor grills, to relax and enjoy your evening meal or to just sit and enjoy listening to the serene sounds of nature. Additional common outdoor amenities include fishing in nearby ponds, nature trails, picnic tables, playgrounds, bike rentals and outdoor games including horseshoes, lifesize checkerboard and disc golf.

 

If you want to enjoy an extended vacation at a hotel you’ll need to pack your whole wardrobe or plan on spending substantial down time at a local laundromat. At Mill Creek Ranch Resort Texas vacation rentals you won’t have to place your vacation plans on hold in order to get your laundry done. You’ll find a private washer and dryer in your unit so you can start the laundry in the morning on your way out the door to enjoy some fun, and finish the laundry when you come back in the evening.

Mill Creek Ranch Resort Texas vacation rentals provide privacy. There will be no maid knocking on your door first thing in the morning. You won’t hear annoying neighbor noise coming through the walls or from the hallway because you don’t have shared walls in a vacation rental unit. Unlike the cramped quarters of a hotel room you’ll have space to stretch out in your vacation rental unit enjoying a wonderfully modern and beautifully appointed living room, kitchen and bedroom(s). It is truly an upscale home away from home.

Rental rates of Mill Creek Ranch Resort Texas vacation rentals are comparable or in many cases better than hotel rates. So what are you waiting for? Book your vacation rental today so you can enjoy the peacefulness of that charming cabin in the woods along with luxury resort living!

texas vacation rentals
Mill Creek Ranch Resort
2102 N. Trade Days Blvd
Canton, Texas 75103
877-927-3439

 

Looking for a Hotel in Canton, TX? Come Stay in Luxury at Mill Creek Ranch Resort

For four days every month, Canton, TX hosts up to 400,000 visitors, which means that our charming, small town temporarily becomes the seventh most populated city in the state! World Famous First Monday Trade Days, held the Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday before the first Monday of each month, is an outdoor market so big that shoppers can’t possibly take it all in in one day. Of course, Canton has shopping, events and fun things to do all month long, but Trade Days deserve every bit of attention that they get. With over 7,000 vendors selling everything from antiques and hand-crafted furniture to shoes, jewelry and salsa, there is simply something for everyone. Visitors love Canton, and Canton loves its visitors.

Because First Monday Trade Days are so popular, a hotel in Canton, TX is in high demand. If you really want to make your stay special, Mill Creek Ranch is your best option with amenities that go above and beyond what you would expect from the average hotel room. We have resort pools, stocked ponds, a playground, live music, paddle boats, and the list goes on and on! Since Trade Days are so popular, you will want to call ahead if you plan to visit Mill Creek Ranch on a Trade Days weekend. Along with making reservations early and ditching that hotel in Canton idea, here are some other tips that will help you have the most First Monday Fun:

  • Go early. Most vendors open at 8am and close at 6pm The least crowded time of day is just as it opens. Especially if you are staying for several days, consider that going early each day may allow you to leave early, which leaves you free time to enjoy our resort pool, relax in the jacuzzi or even go fishing while others fight the later crowds.
  • Don’t worry about a little rain. The market is open rain or shine (and a little rain can actually work to your advantage since it can clear out the crowds).
  • Dress in comfortable layers. Remember that Texas weather can change in the blink of an eye. A chilly morning can become a very warm afternoon. Also, you’ll be doing a lot of walking, so wear good walking shoes. Don’t forget to rent or buy a cart to carry your purchased items, you will be glad you did.
  • Bring cash and a checkbook, because not all vendors will take a credit card.
  • Have fun!

Next time you are looking for a hotel in Canton, TX, make the better choice, and choose Mill Creek Ranch Resort. Just minutes from First Monday Trade Days, and we will even give you a ride, so you don’t have to deal with parking! We love our guests and want them to truly enjoy all that Canton has to offer. Call today to make reservations in one of our beautiful Texas cottages or to pick your RV site.

hotel canton tx
Mill Creek Ranch Resort
2102 N. Trade Days Blvd
Canton, TX 75103
877-927-3439