Both the Rusk and Palistine has short, yet scenic Nature trails for visitors to enjoy. The vegetation of Rusk and Palestine State Parks is representative of the transition from the Prairies, Cross Timbers, and the East Texas Forests. Some species found in both parks include loblolly pine sweetgum, dogwood, redbud, cedar-elm, willow, trumpet creeper, blackjack oak, Spanish mulberry, flatwood plum, and osage orange. Some of the bird species found year-round, which include residents and migratory visitors, are belted kingfisher, cardinal, bluejay, pileated woodpecker, whip-poor-will, killdeer, black capped chickadee, and the cedar waxwing. Some mammals found in the park are armadillo, beaver, raccoon, gray squirrel, opossum, white tailed deer, coyote, and cottontail rabbit.

Directions: From Palestine, TX, Travel 3 miles east on US Highway 84, adjacent to the Texas State Railroad State Historical Park Palestine depot.The Palestine Unit is located 3 miles east of Palestine on US Highway 84, adjacent to the Texas State Railroad State Historical Park Palestine depot.

Elevation: 489 feet

Distance: 0.5 miles

Difficulty: Easy

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