Sam Houston National Forest offers diverse camping options for equestrians near Ace, Texas. Located in east Texas at elevations ranging from 200-300 feet, the area contains longleaf pine forests interspersed with creeks and small lakes. Summers are hot and humid with temperatures often exceeding 90°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing at small ponds: Sexton Pond Dispersed camping area provides free primitive camping with good fishing opportunities. "I got lucky enough had the place to myself for almost 2 weeks, give or take the few groups that tried to tough the biting fish. I will share a tip. They seem to sit dormant at 10pm and 3am for a hour each. No biting," notes one camper.
Hiking forest trails: White Memorial Park Campground offers convenient access to wooded trails. One visitor shares, "Pretty big place with lots of trees. It's a large open area, but it's usually not busy in the wintertime. Nice place to go fishing there's a small doc."
Canoeing and kayaking: Double Lake NF Campground provides water access for small watercraft. "Deep in the woods and on a nice shallow lake. Fantastic for walks around the lake, playing in the park, and fun trails," reports a regular visitor.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the space at many horse campgrounds near Ace. "Campground not full. Very quiet, sites not on top of each other (some more private than others), gravel pads for rv, tent, table, lantern post and campfire ring," mentions one camper at Double Lake NF Campground.
Easy permit process: Whites County Park Campground requires permits but makes them simple to obtain. "I got the camping permit just by calling the phone number at the entrance, they provide me an email to sent my driver license and car type. That's it, they sent me back the permit. Everything is free."
Shaded camping areas: The dense forest provides natural cooling during hot Texas summers. "I love all the trees although it's not great if you're trying to charge up your solar panel. There is a small neighborhood nearby so you will hear kids playing. Otherwise it's very peaceful," reports a visitor.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The East Texas climate affects trail and camping conditions. According to one camper at Village Creek State Park Campground, "Hurricane Harvey flooded most of the park in 2017 but now it is completely open. The park is very nice. It is very typical of Texas parks.... awesome!!"
Access road quality: Some dispersed camping areas require navigating unpaved roads. "Down a hard packed gravel road. A few potholes but nothing major. Nice spot in the trees. There are a few fire pits spread out. We were the only ones here," notes a visitor to Sexton Pond.
Limited services: Most primitive equestrian camping areas lack full amenities. "It was dry camping so I already came prepared. You do need a permit for 3 day stay limit. You can obtain one by going on the website and calling and talk to Brandy she will email you one," explains a camper at Whites County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: The Preserve RV Resort offers family-friendly water activities. "We have enjoyed our stay at the preserve! Have 3 little boys who enjoy fishing and they have plenty of creeks and ponds near campsites; it isn't the most luxurious parks but if your looking for a state park feel this place is a home run!"
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be abundant in wooded horse camping areas. "Nice place for overnighting. Or camp for the 3 day limit. Nice clean park. Sites have concrete picnic tables. But bring a fly swatter for the mosquitoes. A couple got into my home on wheels and when I killed them they left a big bloodstain."
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs for children. "Stayed here the weekend before Halloween, most all of the park was still closed from flooding earlier in the year. The nature center was open and we made seed balls to distribute throughout the garden area. The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: SAM HOUSTON (Houston/Conroe/Huntsville Area) provides various campsite options. "Campgrounds have a variety of amenities to choose from, including screened shelters, which are great if you get caught in a Texas sized downpour or if the mosquitoes are particularly aggressive."
Shower facilities: Campground bathhouses vary in quality and availability. "For those who have showered in an RV, let me say that the high pressure, hot shower is great. Nicely maintained public facilities were great. Level campsites (some look a tad shorter than most) Friendly staff."
Cell coverage: Service can be spotty in forested areas. "Our first stop in the maiden voyage of our travel trailer and this park was good and kind to us. Beautiful, level pull-thru sites with plenty of space from others, shade and sun and within walking distance to bathhouse and swim beach. Mosquitoes abound and there is no cell signal or wi-fi."
