Conroe

As the seat of Montgomery County Conroe lies on the southern edge of Sam Houston National Forest with its towering pines, rolling hills, and woodland lakes. Backpacking along the 127-mile Lone Star Hiking Trail amid the unspoiled beauty of the forest is popular with hikers, where they often see rare and uncommon birds, including the red-cockaded woodpecker.

The county is known as “Birthplace of the Lone Star Flag,” for in 1839, the state legislature adopted the flag designed by resident and patriot, Dr. Charles B. Stewart, as the official state flag.

Resorts, campgrounds and marinas dot the tree-lined shore of Lake Conroe. Lake Conroe is home to eight public golf courses with more than 153 challenging holes.

The Conroe Cajun Catfish Festival attracts thousands to the downtown square on the second weekend in October. Activities include a parade, live entertainment on three stages, fun and games for the kids, arts & crafts and plenty of spicy food.

The storied community of Cut and Shoot – where flea markets flourish on the weekend – is 5 miles east of Conroe.

Just down Texas 105 is the town of Montgomery where you can take a self-guided tour of historic homes, buildings, and antique shops. Shoppers find bargains at Conroe Outlet Center at I-45 and League Line Rd. and at quaint antique malls throughout the city.