Katie Lawrence
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who has called the Golden Triangle home her entire life and covers the region for Only In Your State. With a decade of travel writing experience and a track record of road trips all across the U.S., Katie specializes in mom-and-pop restaurants, local history, and charming small towns — especially the hidden gems that even lifelong residents tend to overlook. Her lifetime of living in Southeast Texas means she writes about the region with the insider authority of someone who was born knowing where to look.
The Best Kept Summer Secret in Texas Is This State Park Swimming Hole
This hidden summer spot in Texas is perfect for cooling off, with scenic views and a one-of-a-kind swimming experience.
You Haven’t Tried True Texas Comfort Food Until You’ve Been Here
This spot serves true Texas comfort food you have to try, with hearty dishes, local flavor, and an unforgettable dining experience.
One of Utah’s Quirkiest Towns Is Still Flying Under the Radar
With historic architecture, restored buildings that house galleries, shops, and restaurants, and beautiful scenery, this unique town in Utah deserves a top spot on your travel bucket list.
One of Oklahoma’s Quirkiest Towns Is Still Flying Under the Radar
Arcadia is a quirky town in Oklahoma that preserves the legacy of Route 66 with unique roadside attractions.
The Rail Trail in New Jersey That’s Better Than Most Hikes
This easy rail trail in New Jersey offers a peaceful escape from the city, allowing visitors to enjoy picturesque views and local history. Walk along old train tracks, marvel at historic railroad artifacts, and take in the natural beauty of the woods surrounding the trail.
The Rail Trail in Maine That’s Better Than Most Hikes
This easy outdoor trail in Maine is a 2.3-mile route along the Passagassawakeag River, offering a leisurely waterfront stroll that combines natural scenery with railroad history.
The Bike Trail in Ohio That’s Better Than Most Hikes
This scenic bike trail in Ohio offers incredible views without the tough climb. Here’s why it’s better than a hike.
The Small-Town State Park in New Mexico Locals Want to Keep to Themselves
Discover a quiet, small-town state park in New Mexico where scenic views, peaceful trails, and local charm make it feel like a hidden gem.
The Rail Trail in Oregon That’s Better Than Most Hikes
This rail trail in Oregon is open to bikers, horseback riders, and pedestrians, winding through dense forest and offering a glimpse into Oregon's railroad history.
The Small-Town State Park in Connecticut Locals Want to Keep to Themselves
Discover a quiet, small-town state park in Connecticut where scenic views, peaceful trails, and local charm make it feel like a hidden gem.
The Paddling Trail in Hawaii That’s Better Than Most Hikes
As the only navigable river in the Aloha State, the Wailua River is one of the best kayaking spots in Hawaii, and this 4-mile stretch leads to a magical grotto. You can also take a detour to a gorgeous waterfall.
The Small-Town State Park in Georgia Locals Want to Keep to Themselves
Discover a quiet, small-town state park in Georgia where scenic views, peaceful trails, and local charm make it feel like a hidden gem.
The Small-Town State Park in Ohio Locals Want To Keep to Themselves
Discover a quiet, small-town state park in Ohio where scenic views, peaceful trails, and local charm make it feel like a hidden gem.
The Small-Town State Park in Colorado Locals Want to Keep to Themselves
Discover a quiet, small-town state park in Colorado where scenic views, peaceful trails, and local charm make it feel like a hidden gem.
A Secluded Campground Near Big Bend National Park Is One of Texas’s Best Kept Secrets
The backcountry sites at Big Bend National Park are among the best places to camp in Texas, offering visitors solitude in the park's most remote corners.
One of Texas’s Quirkiest Towns Is Still Flying Under the Radar
Learn all about one of the quirkiest towns in Texas, filled with unique attractions and small-town charm.
The Rail Trail in Washington That’s Better Than Most Hikes
This scenic rail trail in Washington offers incredible views without the tough climb. Here’s why it’s better than a hike.
The Rail Trail in Colorado That’s Better Than Most Hikes
Beginners, families, and those seeking a less strenuous outdoor adventure will love experiencing the scenic views on this historic rail line. It offers stunning views of the Collegiate Peaks with none of the effort of climbing them.
3 Epic Airbnbs in Texas With Lazy Rivers, Swim-up Bars, and Infinity-Edge Pools
The best water feature Airbnbs in Texas go beyond ordinary pools and hot tubs. These epic rentals feature lazy rivers, swim-up bars, infinity pools, and stunning waterfront views.
This Famous Dune Hike in Arizona Has a Feature You Won’t Want to Miss
When you picture a dune hike in Arizona, the arid desert landscape iconic to the Grand Canyon State probably comes to mind. But what if I told you there's a trail with sand dunes that overlook a sparkling lake?
The Small-Town State Park in Oregon Locals Want to Keep to Themselves
If you're seeking a quiet escape where you can watch the waves roll in and the tide ebb and flow, Yachats State park, a lesser-known park in Oregon, is calling your name.
This Little-Known Waterfront Town Is One of the Most Charming in Louisiana
Discover a little-known waterfront town in Louisiana with a charming main street, scenic views, and hidden gems worth exploring.
The Small-Town State Park in Arizona Locals Want to Keep to Themselves
One of the best state parks in Arizona, this tranquil spot offers a quiet escape away from big cities and daily stresses. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and water recreation amid beautiful scenery.
This Little-Known Waterfront Town Is One of the Most Charming in Nevada
Hawthorne may have an extensive mining background, but it’s home to one jewel that can’t be removed with pickaxes and elbow grease: Walker Lake.
This Little-Known Waterfront Town Is One of the Most Charming in Utah
Tucked up near Wyoming, this tiny Utah community is the gateway to Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area.
Why Travelers Are Falling for This Small Historic Town in Utah
Set at the edge of Capitol Reef National Park, Torrey is a small historic town in Utah where red rock cliffs tower over quiet farms, trading posts, bakeries, and old-school roadside stops. With its laid-back pace, scenic views, and deep Western roots, this tiny gateway town offers travelers a charming base for exploring one of Utah’s most underrated national parks.
4 Picture-Perfect Nature Trails in Wyoming for a Spring Hike
We’ve compiled some of the best nature trails in Wyoming for a spring hike, featuring wildflowers, lush greenery, abundant wildlife, and minimal crowds.
3 Secret Spots You Didn’t Know Existed in Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
From quiet boardwalk trails with epic wildlife viewing opportunities to ranger-led tours that often fly under the radar, we’ve compiled some of the best hidden gems in Louisiana for those seeking an unexpected adventure.
5 Picture-Perfect Nature Trails in Utah for a Spring Hike
Experience some of the best hiking trails in Utah as you feel the sun on your skin, inhale the fresh scent of grass that fills the air after a spring shower, and listen to the powerful but meditative sound of rushing water.
The Unique Hawaii Tour You’ll Remember Forever
Discover a unique and unforgettable snorkeling experience that combines whale-watching and scenic views for a one-of-a-kind adventure.
The Unique Washington Stay You’ll Remember Forever
Perched along Washington’s rugged coastline, this unique stay pairs modern design with sweeping ocean views, offering a peaceful retreat where you can unwind to the sound of waves and soak in unforgettable sunsets.
4 Magical Spots You Didn’t Know Existed in Rocky Mountain National Park
Whether it’s a tranquil meadow scene with wildlife grazing beneath the towering peaks or a secluded hike that often flies under the radar, these less-traveled spots will make your next visit to Rocky Mountains National Park the most memorable experience yet.
This Little-Known Waterfront Town Is One of the Most Charming in Texas
Tucked along the Texas coast, this little-known waterfront town blends quiet marinas, historic charm, and scenic bay views, offering a laid-back escape far from the usual tourist crowds.
Seeing This Texas State Park After Dark Is Better Than Daytime
An International Dark Sky Park along the Rio Grande in the remote West Texas desert, this bucket-list destination is ideal for stargazing and camping. When the moon and stars illuminate the rugged trails, you’ll swear you’re on another planet.
Between Kerrville and Hunt Is an Underrated Roadside Attraction
Between Kerrville and Hunt lies a hidden gem worth the stop, with a replica of an iconic landmark that offers a unique experience you won’t expect.
A Small Town in Texas Is Hiding an Unforgettable Airbnb Experience
Set against the dramatic backdrop of towering canyon walls, this unique Airbnb experience in Texas invites guests to unplug, explore, and soak in the wild beauty of Terlingua.
The Best Noodles in Oregon You Can’t Miss This National Noodle Month
This standout ramen restaurant is serving some of the best noodles in Oregon, combining rich, flavorful broth with perfectly textured noodles in a cozy, modern setting.
Slurp, Savor, Repeat: Texas’s Best Noodle Restaurant for National Noodle Month
If you’re searching for the best noodles in Texas, Noodle Master delivers an unforgettable experience with expertly crafted dishes, from savory beef noodle soup to perfectly steamed dumplings, all served in a modern, welcoming space that will quickly become one of your new favorite restaurants.
Rutledge Falls in Tennessee Has Clear Waters That Rival the Caribbean
Crystal-clear waters at Rutledge Falls in Tennessee draw visitors to this hidden natural oasis, where tiered waterfalls, lush forest surroundings, and a refreshing swimming hole create one of the state’s most scenic and relaxing outdoor escapes.
Treasure Island Beach in Southern California Has Clear Waters That Rival the Caribbean
The clear waters at Southern California's Treasure Island Beach offer a stunning stretch of coastline with calm coves, dramatic rock formations, and postcard-worthy views.
