My dearest beloved lady companion and I have been avid focused, discriminating, varied travelers…read morefor 25 years and I've fished East Texas and surrounding areas for about 50 years. Out of the 604 nights we've spent away from home in that time in places ranging from sketchy to highly luxurious, the three we enjoyed in Scenic View's motel were among the very, very best. Ellison Creek Reservoir aka Lone Star Lake turned out to be one of our favorites in the state. It is beautiful and uncrowded, with clear water and abundant vegetation to support bass fishing. The people in the town of Lone Star were very nice. The Scenic View facility is very clean, safe, pleasant, and operated with a most impressive devotion to quality and friendliness. The owners and operators since 1998, Jim and Kim, are super cool, dedicated to guest enjoyment, and clearly have reinvested abundantly in the property. They are starkly authentic and decent souls. Bass fishing was good even during a cold front. Tap water was tasty, no need to tote bottled. Beds were comfy. Hot water did not run out. The boat ramp was good and well-lit. Dockage with power or park boat trailer in front of cabin/motel door and charge up. Multiple grill-BBQ-smoker options. The kitchenette worked great, was very helpful, and there is good restaurant food within walking distance. Two bed double occupancy in the motel was $80.48 per night TOTAL final cost with no cleaning fee, etc. Coin-op laundry facilities are at motel rear, workshop side. That area has an almost supernatural ability to pull one fantastic sunset after another from the heavens, and the comfortable sheltered lower outdoor level of the store is a great place from which to watch them. So is the open deck atop the store. And sunset happens but once a day, but all day lasts....wait for it....all day! Watching a storm roll in at dawn from there was a treat. Relaxing and gazing out at a forested lake is simply fulfilling. The lake is very scenic with pine and hardwood forest and is much smaller than the chaos-riddled metro reservoirs many of their guests are used to. We were often the only boat on the lake. Lakeside properties are fun to look at and were well-kept. The residents were friendly, unlike what I've experienced at some places, and their docks and boathouses held fish. Lots of wildlife - bald eagles, river otter family of 5, raccoon family of 5, dozens and dozens of bird species, white pelicans, herons, cranes, and so on. Children must be supervised at all times and pets are not allowed in the motel or cabin. Yes, that's not ideal for some, but for everyone else, well, it's.....uh.....AWESOME, casting (see what I did there?) away a big chunk of things that can make leisure days go sideways. It's pleasingly close to the DFW metroplex and the drive through the middle instead of using I-30 or I-20 is very pleasant Texas backroad fun. Bortle stage 3 dark skies are just 15 minutes away to the ENE with ample gravel county roads with turnouts for stargazers. Lake O' the Pines is just a few minutes SE. Daingerfield SP. Jefferson. The most excellent Welsh Reservoir power plant cold water fishery. As part of a loop tour of the bevy of great lakes in E TX, SV is a great base camp. Amusingly, we arrived intending to spend a day or two of the four fishing Pines, a longtime favorite of ours, but were so happy with Scenic View facility and Lone Star Lake that we never left. Why go out for steak when there's already a tomahawk ribeye in your lap? The best part of this great experience was making friends with several of the soundly and roundly pleasant, considerate, and interesting staff, guests, and neighborhood residents, who often get together for events such as Thirsty Thursday and have a just plain good ol' time. I expect some of those associations will last for a long time. Hopefully, days other than Thursday get thirsty, too, for we plan to return regularly. A+ drenched in 5 star sauce.

Love this place!!! Truly a unique experience that one must enjoy!!! Thanks Kim & Jimread more

Our RV camping group was there for the weekend for one of their gatherings. Unfortunately, we were…read morenot able to join them since we had a busy booked weekend. But we did decide to drive down for the day and attend the hot dog cookout that was being held on Friday evening. My wife and I were very impressed with the facilities. The clubhouse was very nice with lots of amenities. The pool looked very inviting with its sparkling water. The RV sites (full hookups) were nicely spaced out. The roads through the park could use some TLC, There are some potholes that need attention. Next time we're in the Canton area, we'll definitely considering RVing at Mill Creek Ranch.

NOT FAMILY FRIENDLY!…read more SO DISAPPOINTED & DISGUSTED. When we arrived at the gate to check in, we were greeted with signs of a "GAYla". And then as soon as we entered the grounds, gay flags. We should have left, but we were ready to be settled. The park was completely full of queers, causing our children to wonder why such behaviours. And then while they were sleeping, there was a noisy (unnecessary) parade that woke them. This park markets family-friendly yet promotes the opposite. Too bad they don't stay neutral and keep their unnatural views to themselves.

So, kinda confusing...but Barefoot Bay (aka. Big Al's Barefoot Bay) and now Castaway's Bar & Grill…read moreis out on Lake Bob Sandlin. Wife and I stopped in (as we have never been here before and they had Line Dance lessons from 6-9. Service was good and a great view of the lake. Food was bar food and good for around here. Line dancing was a bit of a let down as they didn't have a great sound system. But, lots of people showed up and made it fun. All in all, the restaurant is young and they are experiencing some growing pains. Broken tea maker and got a an appetizer wrong...but they made it right. Had pepperoni pizza and Philly Cheesesteak...but forgot to take pictures. We will come again and grow with them!

FLACCID AL'S BAREFOOT BAY…read more JUST THE DETAILS -Our lawnmower stored at Barefoot bay was taken and used by the new marina owners. They claim that our contact and payment info was never transferred from the old owners and it was abandoned property to seize because of that. -Trying to get things sorted out we had unpleasant interactions and intimidation tactics used against us and potentially witnessed some child labor violations. -Payed them the past due balance. The returned mower had approximately $500 worth of vandalism damage done to it. They eventually paid for the repair which seems to be an admittance of guilt. They have not admitted or apologized for any of the damages or unethical use. THE FULL EXPERIENCE Upon returning spring of this year (2025) we were met with all new signage and a fresh wood facade inside and out. New cameras everywhere, an updated bar and dance hall. It was impressive at first glance. Sadly the facelift that had been preformed was nothing better than lipstick on a pig. Under the shimmering red gloss this place is still just swine wallowing in its own filth. On our first visit this year to pick up our mower, a drowsy looking man that appeared to have gum disease approached us. He told us he was wondering who the trailer belonged to. We explained that we were the owners of the equipment. He stated that our automatic payment we had previously set up would need to be updated. When we returned 3 weeks later we found an empty trailer, our mower was missing. Someone had to cut our lock and cable off. We went inside and asked for a manger only to be greeted by a child behind the counter. I asked for a manger and she went to go find them. A middle aged man with a large cold sore approach me and asked what I needed. I was sharply dismissed and directed to a lady in a side office. She started filling out a theft report when a young lady with an upper lip piercing came in and asked what happened. She asked if it was a red mower and then said she would be right back. While I waited for her to return the little girl behind the counter was processing transactions at the register unsupervised. Selling snack, drinks, and even cigarettes at one point. When the woman with the lip piercing returned the girl asked her if it was legal for her to sell cigarettes. She was told no, but not to worry about it. I was eventually handed their land line phone and talked with their new property manager Jessica. While on the phone the cold sore man returned and demanded I take that call elsewhere. He insisted that was a business line and I needed to take the elsewhere. After I told him I was on the business line with the business (the property manager) he stood there staring at me and eventually walked off. A week later when we picked up the lawn mower it was back on the trailer. That's where their fulfillment ended. The control handles were bent so badly the enamel paint was chipped off and the lawnmower was not controllable. The key cylinder had been destroyed, the throttle control was bent, one of the transmission releases was bent, and a chunk of the handle foam was torn off. They vandalized the lawnmower extensively before returning it. Eventually the property manager reimbursed us for the vandalism caused on her team's watch. That seems to be the only ethical part of this entire exchange. What seems to be the most concerning for the future of the marina is the complete lack of ethics within the staff, and potential of willingly violating child labor laws, a minor working the register alone selling age restricted items. The behavior by the cold sore man, a supposed manager trying to pressure and intimidate us, damaging property that they were paid to store and keep secure. "Big Al's" has fallen flat. This place needs to seriously consider replacing the local management. From what I have seen and personally experienced recently at Barefoot bay, it is my opinion that people lacking so much integrity and intelligence operating a business are untrainable and just need to be replaced.

We love our vacation stays at Holly Lake Resort. The units are comfortably pleasant. This year…read more(2017) changes were made via Holiday Inn. No pool pass required, towel exchange is $8, but there is guest laundry at no cost. If you are a Silverleaf member having Presidential and up...you can request your day of check out for noon, if not it is 9am. Changing over systems leaves the new staff of no knowledge on Silverleaf Members, so you might have to enlighten them, so they can look it up and learn something new Above all, no complaints here! We enjoyed our stay!

We are fortunate to have friends who own a very special lakehouse in Holly Lake Ranch, a gated…read morecommunity on 3000 acres in Wood County, Texas. When we visit them, we do not spend much time on the lake because we like to stare at it while sitting in their big swing sipping Prosecco. There are cranes, feral hogs, deer, unique birds and other wildlife in this part of Texas. Should I mention we heard banjos playing in the pines...? The "Ranch" development offers a golf course, restaurant, tennis courts, miniature golf and boating. Lush dogwoods were in bloom when we were there recently, along with beautiful wildflowers and tall pines. I think when I die, heaven will look like Holly Lake Ranch.

We went last week and were pretty disappointed. Golf carts were dirty, cabin had bugs and…read morespiderwebs, bunk bed wasn't pilot secured to the wall, didn't have enough utensils, no sponge to clean the dishes, no trash bags, pots and pans shoved into the cabinets like it hadn't been checked. We talked to the front office about it and they said they would call housekeeping and nothing.. none of the issues were fixed besides the coffee maker. We also ordered from the canteen and it was the slowest service I have ever experienced. The employees seemed completely lost and not sure how to run it. For the amount of money we spent, we expected a little more. Probably won't return and will go To camp Fimfo.

Planned my daughters 6th birthday party. Upon making the reservations i was told NO OUTSIDE FOOD OR…read moreDRINKS ALLOWED, that there is a cafe there to be able to purchase the pizzas for the kids. Our party arrived and EVERYONE at the park had their own snacks, food, drinks etc. So we paid $50 for pizzas for the party and one of the women in the cafe was kind enough to supply the drinks after i explained to her that i added the birthday package to the reservation and dont even know what i paid for because nothing about paying the extra amount made it a special birthday for my daughter. The bear appearance is included in the "birthday package" but there are only set times for the bear to appear and you have to gather your entire group to go to him. (i was told he would only be at the arcade and that's where we would have to go to see him) But then he appeared near by the cafe an hour & 1/2 later once almost all of our kids were gone :( The cafe told me they couldn't refrigerate our birthday cake, then said that they could. VERY VERY VERY TERRIBLE communication and so embarrassing for me with the other parents that attended. A couple of the other kids from school were considering having their birthday there and now ARE NOT. Ultimately, im just glad the kids were ages 5-7 to hopefully not notice the inconveniences and chaos, but it stuck with the parents. I will 1000% never book another party or even event here.

We had a wonderful time at Open Water Lodge. The atmosphere was peaceful and beautiful. The lodge…read morewas perfect for a large family group. Perfect sized kitchen and plenty of space to feel comfortable. We loved the options to play pool and arcade games. We watched some TV and spent a lot of time outside. The pool is beautiful and a nice size for fun in the sun. The corn hole game was a hit and fishing was the icing on the vacation cake! We are already planning our next visit! This is our new spot for years to come! ~Maria H

This is for fishing. Hired a guide here Jeremy Robinson Had…read morean incredible time with Jeremy. Brought my 13-year old grandson To catch some Striper and Hybrids. Jeremey put us on em and made it a great time with his infectious enthusiasm. Can not wait to go back and stay in the cabins on property. They were booked when we went Highly recommend their guide service!

Let me start this review by saying that we were asked to leave the property. I do not want this…read morereview to be viewed as a disgruntled former tenant as i am not. We rented a beautiful spot for two years. The property was purchased and with that comes change and we expected that. What we did not expect was for our grandchildren to find needles in the plants near the restrooms or to be overwhelmed by the smell of marijuana coming from other campsites near ours. The dock was partially dismantled making it near impossible to load or unload people from a boat and allowing only two people the ability to fish off the dock at the same time. The investors when onsite, openly speak poorly of residents to new and potential renters. They portray this as a family/kid friendly resort, per my above comments, it clearly is not. One resident refused to call for medical assistance for fear that an ambulance would make a scene and they would be evicted as a result. We clearly did not abide by all the rules, but were asked to leave based on another renters actions, who is still there and did not receive so much as a warning. It is a beautiful place but just know that there is an agenda. https://www.redbearresort.com/

This place is ABSOLUTELY amazing. I absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful…read moreretreat. We live about an hour and a half away in the Garland area, and it's the perfect little staycation to get away from the city without the hassle of a long drive. The cabins are beautifully maintained--clean, cozy, and thoughtfully stocked with everything you might need. The surroundings are just stunning: peaceful woods, fresh air, and quiet nights under the stars. Whether you're sitting on the porch with a morning coffee or winding down by the fire pit in the evening, it feels like a true escape. The property is clearly cared for with love and attention to detail, and the staff couldn't have been more welcoming and accommodating. If you're looking for a relaxing weekend to recharge, this cabin resort is exactly what you need. We're already talking about coming back again!

I hardly ever give a 5 to any business but this one is an exception. Allen Acres is amazing. I have…read morestayed in the Silo twice. Both were great and relaxing experiences. First -the Silo. OMG! There is literally nothing like it. It's a 1 bdrm 1 1/2 bath IN A GRAIN SILO! But you would never know it by the inside. This home is hand crafted and designed by the owners. The way they took this vertical space and made this place is a feat in itself. Let me set the mood for you. You drive in through an electric gate on a country road in the trees of east Texas. You're 10 minutes from Canton Trade Days and 15 over to Emory, where Twigs is (look it up). Plus you're only 90 min from Dallas. The land takes your breath away. On your left is a pond. A big pond! The waterfall that changes colors is the only sound you hear besides the sounds of nature. On your right is the Silo. You have plenty of parking inside of a gate that is all for just the Silo. Beyond the main gate, up the hill, sits two cabins that the Allens also rent. That's another review for another day. Let's just say - you gotta see this place. Pulling into your private parking spot at the Silo you're greeted by Annie Oakley, the farm Great Pyrenees. She is friendly and keeps the chickens and land safe. Yes, I said ! They are the cutest things ever! And they are nowhere near the Silo. They are way on the other side of the property in their own area. But be sure to say hi to Speedy and Rulio and their harems. In front of the Silo there is a fire pit/grill with Adirondack chairs. This is all nestled among the majestic trees with a full view of the pond. There is also a swing out in the trees. So cool. Up a beautiful redwood porch you enter through this gorgeous and heavy stained wood door with a cute little peephole box you open. You're immediately greeted by the iron spiral staircase which takes you to the bedroom and full bath upstairs. As you look up you see this stunning hand cut wood ceiling. It's a work of art. I stare at it in amazement. To the right is a spacious 1/2 bath. In front of you there are a living room and kitchen. The most beautiful fireplace is on, soothing spa music is playing on the Roku tv and the place smells like a spa! The kitchen has a 3/4 fridge with freezer (ample space and holds gallon jugs ), a microwave, electric stove/oven and a beautiful stainless steel sink with a window looking out to the woods. Gorgeous! Btw, I cooked four or five meals here and you have everything you need. The owner has thought of every detail. From the S'more's and coffee stations to the satin sleep masks on your bedside table you will feel pampered. The living room has the most gorgeous fireplace (which turns different colors and has a heat option that works so well), this hand carved Edge wood mantel with a large flatscreen with Roku tv. There is also the cutest little table next to one of the windows that is perfect for meals. The couch faces this fireplace and is right under the peak of this gorgeous ceiling. This couch reclines and turns into a full-size bed. There is a faux fur rug in front of the fireplace which pops with the modern industrial design of the space. Up the spiral staircase - which is easy to climb- you have a queen size bed that is super comfortable. Much higher quality than any AirBNB or rental property at which I've stayed. The bed is right under the custom wood ceiling and faces the grand windows that look right out to the woods. And the windows have remotes to close and open the shades. There is an oscillating fan that will definitely cool you off in the summer if the AC doesn't do the trick. The room has two side tables for the bed with the cutest little industrial pipe lamps, a pipe rack for clothes with a shelf, a large basket for whatever you need and a valet stand for your suitcase. Such a nice touch. The bathroom is stunning. There is a fog-less, lighted mirror you can change the light setting on. Quartz countertop over cabinets with plenty of space for your items. And the shower- it is built on a round wall, y'all. This is insane! The owners didn't waste an inch of space. The shower is tiled with this gorgeous rock pattern that you just have to see (and it feels good on your feet). And this shower has so much space, complete with a built-in nook for your stuff. Overall, I just love being out at Allen Acres. Doesn't matter which home you rent (Lucky Buck, Krazy Kalf or the Silo) you are going to love this experience. Allen Acres is quiet, serene, enchanting and something you have to see to understand. I HIGHLY recommend Allen Acres Resort. If you're heading to Trade Days or just want a relaxing few days this is the place to stay. It's an easy weekend destination for people in the DFW metroplex. I've attached just a few pics out of the dozens I took. You can see amazing pics on the web site.

Servers should be trained better regarding assigned tables and how to speak to customers…read more Food was ok.

Had a great experience at the Don Louis concert. Adequate parking. Great bar area. Only…read moredisappointment was no food options.