Best Camping near Big Thicket National Preserve

Big Thicket National Preserve, TX is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Big Thicket National Preserve and user-submitted reviews.

Best Camping Sites Near Big Thicket National Preserve, TX (85)

    Camper-submitted photo from Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground

    1. Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    119 Photos
    90 Saves
    Spurger, Texas

    This recreation area is part of Steinhagen Lake

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Creek

    2. Sandy Creek

    11 Reviews
    33 Photos
    42 Saves
    Spurger, Texas

    Overview

    Sandy Creek Park is located on the southeast side of B.A. Steinhagen Lake between the towns of Woodville and Jasper in southeast Texas. The lake provides a great getaway for fishing, boating, picnicking, camping and birding.

    Recreation

    B.A. Steinhagen Lake is a prime location for boating, canoeing, fishing and wildlife viewing. Several parks with boat ramps and docks are scattered around the lake, including facilities within Sandy Creek. Boat rentals are also available. Fishing is a popular pastime. Largemouth bass, catfish and crappie are the primary sport species found in the lake. Fishing docks are located within the park. The road system within Sandy Creek Park offers excellent family biking opportunities for 3-5 mile rides. Campers enjoy the park's volleyball court and children's playground.

    Natural Features

    The lake lies in the heart of the East Texas Pineywoods, a beautiful region known for its pine uplands, bottomland hardwoods and pine-hardwood mixed forests, which provide habitat for a wide range of wildlife. White-tailed deer, squirrels, rabbits, red and gray fox, Bobwhite quail, and numerous species of ducks, geese, waterfowl and songbirds make their home in the area.

    Nearby Attractions

    Nearby Martin Dies, Jr. State Park offers hiking, canoeing, fishing, swimming, biking and wildlife viewing opportunities. The Walnut Slough, Sandy Creek and Neches Paddling Trails meander from 3-16 miles on the park's backwater sloughs, the open lake and the swift Neches River. The Angelina-Neches/Dam B Wildlife Management Area is located at the north end of the lake, covering nearly 13,000 acres. The area boasts beautiful mature hardwoods, including cypress, sweet gum and red and water oak. Some areas features stands of loblolly and shortleaf pine. Visitors have the opportunity to hunt, fish, hike and view wildlife in the extraordinary ecosystem.

    Charges & Cancellations

    General Policy No Refunds are given at the field location Individual Campsites If a customer cancels a campsite reservatiopn within 14 days of their scheduled arrival they shall be charged a $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $30 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Ridge
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Ridge

    3. Magnolia Ridge

    9 Reviews
    21 Photos
    46 Saves
    Spurger, Texas

    Overview

    Magnolia Ridge Park is located on the northwest side of B.A. Steinhagen Lake, between the towns of Woodville and Jasper, Texas. The lake provides a great getaway for fishing, boating, picnicking, camping and birding.

    Recreation

    B.A. Steinhagen Lake is a prime location for boating, canoeing, fishing and wildlife viewing. Several parks with boat ramps and docks are scattered around the lake, including facilities within Magnolia Ridge. Fishing is a popular pastime. Largemouth bass, catfish and crappie are the primary sport species found in the lake. Younger anglers love the Kid's Fish Pond within Magnolia Ridge, and Kid's Fish Day is held annually in June. The road system within Magnolia Ridge Park offers excellent family biking opportunities for 3-5 mile rides. A playground is also located on-site.

    Natural Features

    The lake lies in the heart of the East Texas Pineywoods, a beautiful region known for its pine uplands, bottomland hardwoods and pine-hardwood mixed forests, which provide habitat for a wide range of wildlife. White-tailed deer, squirrels, rabbits, red and gray fox, bobwhite quail and numerous species of ducks, geese, waterfowl and songbirds make their home in the area.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Angelina-Neches/Dam B Wildlife Management Area is nearby, covering nearly 13,000 acres. The area boasts beautiful mature hardwoods, including cypress, sweet gum and red and water oak. Some areas feature stands of loblolly and shortleaf pine. Visitors have the opportunity to hunt, fish, hike and view wildlife in this extraordinary ecosystem.

    Charges & Cancellations

    General Policy No Refunds are given at the field location Individual Campsites If a customer cancels a campsite reservation within 14 days of their scheduled arrival they shall be charged a $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $25 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Livingston State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Livingston State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Livingston State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Livingston State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Livingston State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Livingston State Park Campground

    4. Lake Livingston State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    126 Photos
    277 Saves
    Livingston, Texas

    Fish at one of the largest lakes in the state, hike quiet trails through the forest, or find Lake Livingston camping under the trees. This refreshing retreat from city life is just an hour north of Houston. At Lake Livingston State Park, you can swim, fish, boat, hike, bird, camp, picnic, mountain bike, geocache and study nature. We have activities for the whole family! Take a virtual tour with our Interactive Trails Map. We offer many camping options, from tent sites with water nearby up to campsites with full hookups. You can also rent one of 10 screened shelters, some of which are ADA accessible. Or book one of our group sites for your next reunion. Shop our park store for souvenirs, drinks, snacks, ice, camping and fishing supplies, and much more. Alligators live in the area; read our alligator safety tips.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $14 - $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Creek - Town Bluff Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Creek - Town Bluff Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Creek - Town Bluff Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Creek - Town Bluff Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Creek - Town Bluff Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Creek - Town Bluff Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Boykin Springs Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Boykin Springs Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Boykin Springs Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Boykin Springs Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Boykin Springs Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Boykin Springs Recreation Area

    6. Boykin Springs Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    45 Photos
    24 Saves
    Angelina National Forest, Texas

    Located on Boykin Springs Lake in Angelina National Forest, this recreation area offers a little of everything, including camping, hiking, fishing, picnicking and relaxing in nature. It is situated in eastern Texas near the Louisiana border. The facility has both a campground and day-use area. The group shelter must be reserved; the campground is first-come, first-served. Natural Features: Boykin Creek and the nine-acre Boykin Springs Lake both pass through the facility, and the Sam Rayburn Reservoir is nearby. The area is forested with pines and hardwoods. Wildlife is abundant, and the region is a hot spot for migratory birds. Recreation: The group picnic area provides direct access to the Sawmill Trail, a hiking trail that winds through the forest to the Neches River and the Aldridge Sawmill Historical Site. Waters are calm and quiet; only non-motorized boats are allowed. Facilities: The group picnic shelter accommodates up to 74 guests and is available by reservation only. It is adjacent to the hiking trail and creek. The campground has several standard sites for tents and RVs, as well as a few tent-only sites. All campsites are first-come, first-served. Drinking water, flush toilets and hot showers are available at the campground. Nearby Attractions: The National Forests and Grasslands in Texas have trails for a variety of outdoor activities, including nearly 200 miles of hiking trails, 85 miles of off-road vehicle trails, 145 miles of horse trails and 11 miles of bicycle trails.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Town Bluff Lake Sandy Creek Park
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Town Bluff Lake Sandy Creek Park
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Town Bluff Lake Sandy Creek Park
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Town Bluff Lake Sandy Creek Park
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Sam Rayburn Reservoir Twin Dikes Park
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Sam Rayburn Reservoir Twin Dikes Park
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Sam Rayburn Reservoir Twin Dikes Park
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Sam Rayburn Reservoir Twin Dikes Park
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Sam Rayburn Reservoir Twin Dikes Park
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Sam Rayburn Reservoir Twin Dikes Park

    8. COE Sam Rayburn Reservoir Twin Dikes Park

    8 Reviews
    10 Photos
    2 Saves
    Brookeland, Texas

    Overview

    Twin Dikes Park is located on the waters of the Sam Rayburn Reservoir, in the Piney Woods of southeast Texas. The region lies in the migration path of warblers, vireos, and other species of neotropical migrants, so spring is an opportune time for birders to visit the park.

    Recreation

    The lake is a highly popular recreation destination for boating and fishing. Game fish include largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish. The abundance of bass in the lake, has inspired more than 300 annual tournaments.

    Facilities

    The lake is a highly popular recreation destination for boating and fishing. Game fish include largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish. The abundance of bass in the lake, has inspired more than 300 annual tournaments.

    Natural Features

    Twin Dikes is on the southern shore of Sam Rayburn Reservoir, in the Big Thicket region of Texas, the densest portion of the Piney Woods, a region characterized by temperate coniferous forests. The 114,000-acre lake was impounded in 1965 along the Angelina River, and has an average depth of 80 feet with average clarity.

    Nearby Attractions

    The 20,700-acre Bannister Wildlife Management Area is on the northern peninsula of the lake. Hikers and bikers can come here to explore the designated Eastern Wild Turkey restoration site.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $30 - $38 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hanks Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanks Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanks Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanks Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanks Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanks Creek

    9. Hanks Creek

    10 Reviews
    24 Photos
    56 Saves
    Zavalla, Texas

    Overview

    Hanks Creek Park has something for everyone, with plenty of water sports on Sam Rayburn Reservoir and volleyball, mountain biking, wild life viewing and birding for those who want to stay on shore. The Red-cockaded woodpecker, an endangered species, is found throughout the forest surrounding the reservoir. The bird makes its home by pecking cavities in large, living pine trees.

    Recreation

    Fishing is excellent for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish and sunfish, with frequent fishing tournaments. The lake is also popular for jet skiing, water skiing and swimming.

    Natural Features

    Sam Rayburn Reservoir, also called Lake Sam Rayburn, boasts over 114,000 surface acres, making it the largest man-made lake completely in Texas. It's surrounded by the Angelina National Forest, and is within short proximity to the Sabine and Davy Crockett National Forests.

    Nearby Attractions

    The 20,700-acre Bannister Wildlife Management Area is on the northern peninsula of the lake. Hikers and bikers can come here to explore the designated Eastern Wild Turkey restoration site.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $38 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Village Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Village Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Village Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Village Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Village Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Village Creek State Park Campground
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Showing results 1-10 of 85 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Big Thicket National Preserve

Recent Reviews in Big Thicket National Preserve

249 Reviews of 85 Big Thicket National Preserve Campgrounds


  • Jim P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Livingston State Park Campground
    Dec. 8, 2024

    Lake Livingston State Park Campground

    Great park, very nice sites and good trails

    Love staying at Livingston. It is close enough to Houston that we can have a quick get away, but still be away from things that you can enjoy. The park is very well maintained, and the trails are good. A lot of people fish the lake, but I haven’t had a lot of luck - that doesn’t mean anything, though 🤣

  • Jim P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Sam Rayburn Reservoir San Augustine Park
    Dec. 8, 2024

    COE Sam Rayburn Reservoir San Augustine Park

    Nice clean park with very friendly park hosts

    Stayed over the long weekend immediately following Thanksgiving. Sure was very long and spacious with a great view of the lake. Sure was a little uneven, so some leveling was required.

  • Yasmin S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sexton Pond Dispersed
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Sexton Pond Dispersed

    Sexton Pond.

    If looking to be near a campground but still out on your own then this is the place. 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. Please clean behind as you found it.

  • Yasmin S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Sam Rayburn Reservoir San Augustine Park
    Nov. 1, 2024

    COE Sam Rayburn Reservoir San Augustine Park

    St. Augustine Park

    Beautifal long flat beach. Park folks were awesome in our lat minute camp ascurrsion. We ended up sleep in truck with really no camp stuff. They gave us hurricane food and ice packs in big bundle. Kindest thing done for us in quite some time. Keeps me a continued camper. There is also a little store by entrance of park b4 come in. He is a kind person also. The folks here make the park what it is. Serene.

  • Yasmin S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Hole Dispersed
    Oct. 23, 2024

    Rock Hole Dispersed

    Rock Hole / Slitz Hole

    Famous place where the limestone for the Galveston seawall after the storm of 1901 Has two ponds or waterholes. One is good just for fishing. The other grew up swimming in. Found big chunks of limestone all around still.

  • Yasmin S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Boykin Springs Recreation Area
    Oct. 23, 2024

    Boykin Springs Recreation Area

    Boykin

    One of our most favorite regular places to visit. It is awesome for just the day or to camp. It is a relaxed atmosphere here. As long as you dont cause a fuss you dont have one. There is plenty to explore, to do, to see, to find. There is a beached swimming area. Behind it is a explorable water trail that goes forever. There is stoned created waterfall. The beached pond is big enough to share for fishing away from swimmers. Down from the waterfall stoned way leads to a small pool that families gather with little ones. Places where on hot days can put out fokdable chairs in the water. If you continue their our routed canyons to explore with two more pools to relax or jump into with miles more of creek to explore. Top it off there is a small cemetary with a civil war vet buried in it. You can hike to the famous sawmill or just ride bikes. Thats just for a small list. There used to be a rope swing but i gather it wasnt being appreciated as it should of been and has since been removed.

  • Yasmin S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cassells-Boykin Park
    Oct. 23, 2024

    Cassells-Boykin Park

    Cassels

    The last time I visted about two years ago I can say was a average visit. If you are into fishing this place is for you. Has good spots for night time fishing. Lit up fairly nice also. When we were there only a set of older lady twins with some kids were there. They have a natural occuring beach nearby as well. Have a nice covered area for events or such that looks appealing. They advertise hold weddings there and even have a dressing room. Thing is there were no showers near that bathroom. The sinks were small and stunted to say the least. If you needed to rinse off to elbow or feet lol.. forget it. Which who has such a perfect event where water wont be needed better. Worst was the bathroom had been covered with feces no question. We were there in middle of the night so maybe timing was off. The dressing room was not much for thoughts of a real wedding dress. It be cramped for a regular gown. The view of covered area with lake in bkground is great but I think the advertise they put out there should be matched with it behind the scenes. But maybe the people who marry here wear only matching waders.

  • Linda F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rayburn
    Oct. 20, 2024

    Rayburn

    Clean safe, great amenities, plenty of good site.

    I have camped here most of my life

  • Linda F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanks Creek
    Oct. 20, 2024

    Hanks Creek

    Great safe wholesome family atmosphere, clean, well maintained flush toilets, showers, children's playground.. main camping side thru attendants that didn't allow drunkenness in camping areas, dedicated bouyed swim area, no life guard but gently slopes on sand. That is near boat ramp so wife can let daddy watch kids so she can fish

    It is centrally located on big sam for great fishing , nice clean

  • Kaitlyn S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Ridge
    Oct. 2, 2024

    Magnolia Ridge

    Beautiful camp and Camp host was super friendly and informative !

    Went for the weekend last month now we are coming back for the whole month of October! Very clean maintained small campgrounds! Bathrooms fair enough for low traffic and close enough for convenience. Although everything was amazing clean restrooms and showers we wish it was more clear where the showers were they were not on the map trying to find them at night was interesting

  • Ahmad A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Shirley Creek Marina & Campground
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Shirley Creek Marina & Campground

    Superb Again

    Thank you for sharing this review! It’s always helpful to get insights before booking a stay. While I’m here, I thought I'd mention that if you're looking for some good tunes to listen to during your trip, you might want to check out Spotify Premium Apkz. It’s a great way to access your favorite music without interruptions. Safe travels!

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from On The Lake RV Resort
    Sep. 10, 2024

    On The Lake RV Resort

    Fantastic lake views & great on-site restaurant

    Our sites were amazing with gorgeous lake views with sunsets for dayyyys!  The on-site restaurant had good cocktails and great food. We went during the winter (November, right before Thanksgiving), so didnt do any of the swimming/water activities. Super nice staff and all around great time. Clean park. We will definitely be back!

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Northshore RV Resort on Lake Livingston
    Sep. 10, 2024

    Northshore RV Resort on Lake Livingston

    JUST YIKES.

    TLDR:  Dirty, overpriced, bait n switch offerings, NOT an RV Resort.

    This was the most disappointing RV park I've ever been to. It is marketed and priced as an "RV resort"....It is not. We had a good time because we had good company but this place was the butt of a joke...We went for Memorial Day weekend. (A holiday weekend) The kids couldn't play in the grass because it was so tall. One of the permanent campers (there are many permanent RVs) came by and asked if we wanted to borrow a mower..not kidding. It was sweet of him to offer, but we paid $73/night!  Just yikes.

    We were also warned not to go down to the beach area because it was destroyed by waves and there were water snakes everywhere.  We were taken aback at the overall "resort" and could only laugh at how absurd it was lol.

    The pool was packed with locals (It was a holiday weekend though, so I'll give them that one).  The lady at the check in was super rude and was put out by us checking in. Overall, I would NEVER come back here. We camp at expensive places and state parks and everything in between. I've never written a bad review for a campsite, because I've never found a place that was this terrible. Had it been priced accordingly, I would've been ok with it, but this is NOT a resort and shouldn't be a resort price! Yikes.

    There was more that I'm probably forgetting...but some other highlights: The splash pad didnt work. The kiddos said the playground was gross and sketchily creaking.  There is no clubhouse. Oh, also, the infinity pool pictured on the website is 100% not the same pool that is there.  There are many other campsites on the lake...go to any other one!

    PICS SHOW THINGS FROM THEIR WEBSITE THAT DON'T EXIST OR ARE VERY MISREPRESENTED...In short...Book something else. I hope they get their act together, but their website is bait n switch.

  • Star A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Shirley Creek Marina & Campground
    Aug. 16, 2024

    Shirley Creek Marina & Campground

    Best Place I Have Ever Seen

    I just have to say, this is the best place to stay! I love playing games here with my friends, especially using WorldBox premium Apk. It’s an amazing experience every time

  • Alexis W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock'n E RV Park
    May. 19, 2024

    Rock'n E RV Park

    New Name, but fantastic place to stay!

    We had a wonderful 1 night stay camping here! When the new owners took over, they did change the name to "Made in the Shade" so if you go to the website listed here it will reroute you to the correct page!

    My partner is cycling the country and this is a great spot to stop for the night on the Southern Tier Bike route. We loved socializing with the owners & locals and others staying at the park, cooling off in the [well-kept] pool, and appreciated the good water pressure of the showers! 100% recommend. Thanks again for everything!

  • Jim P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Village Creek State Park Campground
    May. 13, 2024

    Village Creek State Park Campground

    Keep an eye out for Bigfoot!

    Great park if you want to get outside, but still want access to civilization.

    Park is somewhat of a mix between wetland and forest. While this is an awesome ecosystem with lots to see and explore - take bug spray! Especially if going in May - when the Horseflies are out. We made the mistake of forgoing the Off and got eaten alive. This is our fault, and not the parks, though.

    The park is conveniently located just outside of Beaumont. In fact, you may feel like you haven’t left the city until you are there. This can be helpful if you want to grab a bite and not cook, or if you run short of supplies. I would recommend this park especially for someone new to camping.

  • a
    Camper-submitted photo from Selah Acres
    Mar. 31, 2024

    Selah Acres

    good

    G-Switch 3 is a fast-paced endless runner game where players control gravity-flipping characters to navigate through obstacles and compete in multiplayer mode for high scores and achievements.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Triple Creek RV Music Park
    Mar. 23, 2024

    Triple Creek RV Music Park

    Beware

    I booked my stay and called ahead that we would be arriving late.

    It had rained like 4 inches the night before and the 2.5 mile old logging dirt road to get there was very nasty but doable.

    I arrived around 10:30 pm. I found the office but it was all dark & locked. There was a recreation room I guess next door that wasn’t locked but no maps or signs or anything useful that I could see. I had no clue where to go or what my site number was supposed to be. My email confirmation from “The Dyrt” was all I had and it made me think maybe I was supposed to be at site number 8 by stating “No. of sites: 8”

    I called & texted but got no response other than an automated text asking to text me back later.

    I walked around in the woods in the dark with a flashlight & found site number 8 but it only had a 30amp hookup.

    I drove and walked around looking for an empty spot with 50 amp service.

    I attempted to try and stay at site 81 but again, no 50amp service.

    I have severe sleep apnea so power is a must. If I had brought a 30 amp to 50 amp adapter then maybe I could have made it work.

    After fighting and looking and attempting to call & text, I finally left and went to Jasper to get a hotel for the night.

    I was very disappointed.

    You should tell folks what site you’re putting them in & have a map to find it or at least answer the phone. If late arrival was going to be an issue you should have said something.

    I came from Hempstead with 3 kids heading to my mom’s to visit her for the weekend. We were passing through on our way to Natchitoches. If I had known this was going to happen I would have stayed at Log Cabin RV but instead I had to lose about 2 hours, drive way out of the way on a very nasty road only to find that I had no place to stay that I could find. Not to mention end up paying $90 for a crappy room at the Econo Lodge in Jasper since it had truck parking.

    Your place looks unique & I may be interested in returning sometime for the music but I guess after hours arrival must not be an option with you because this was a terrible experience.

  • Roger W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Creek
    Feb. 24, 2024

    Sandy Creek

    Great Loction to Visit Big Thicket

    Sandy Creek ACE, TX: To Do: Great location to visit the Big Thicket National Preserve. Boat launch is in the park. Fishing. Gorgeous sunsets.

    (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good

    (71 yr olds in 17’ trailer. )

    Overall Rating: 3.5. Great price, large sites , but showers need updating and better water heaters.
    Price 2023: $9 w interagency pass. Not a lot of privacy in most sites. Security: No Usage during visit: 1/3 full on Saturday. Site Privacy: No shrubbery between sites Site Spacing: Most sites have great spacing Site surface: Blacktop Reservations: Yes Campground Noise: Very quiet Road Noise: No public roads nearby Through Traffic in campground: None Electric Hookup: Yes Sewer Hookup: No Dump Station: Yes Potable Water Available: At sites Bathroom: Flush toilets. Clean, but in major need of updating. Showers: Yes. Common dressing area - needs updating. Water heated not adequate every morning. Pull Throughs: Some Cell Service (AT&T): 3 bars Setting: Sites are in what is mostly a pine forest.
    Recent Weather: Cool. Typical for this time of year I am told Host: At entrance Rig Size: Largest of rigs are accommodated Sites: 32 has great shade. 51 and 35 doorside towards trees as opposed to another trailer.v

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground
    Feb. 14, 2024

    Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground

    Paradise Off The Beaten Path

    This may very well be the cheapest lakefront real estate in Texas. You simply cannot beat $15/night right on the water! Very quiet, and never crowded (in November). Decent cell signal, and great reception on my Transistor/Weather radio.

  • Elise A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rayburn
    Jan. 30, 2024

    Rayburn

    Off season is the move

    My friends and family decided to book this place in late January. We say exactly 3 other people for the entire duration of our 3 day stay.

    The sunrise and sunset are some of the best I’ve seen and the water though cold is beautiful and the sounds of loons, mourning doves, and coyotes hand in the air through the day and night.

    This camp is quite deep in the middle of nowhere and I could t find any established hiking paths near by but I perhaps could have missed them.

    Park host is super vigilant so if you feel like getting into some trouble, I’d look for another campsite instead of this one.


Drive Time


Guide to Big Thicket National Preserve

Camping near Big Thicket National Preserve, Texas, offers a unique blend of nature, tranquility, and adventure. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore the great outdoors.

What to do:

  • Kayaking: Experience the serene waters while kayaking at Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground. One visitor shared, "Had nice spot right by the water. Kayaked by several gators. Very serene and beautiful park."
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Hanks Creek is a great choice. A camper noted, "Excellen place to spend quiet time by the lake! Such a beautiful setting in the east Texas Piney Woods!"
  • Wildlife Watching: At Magnolia Ridge, you can enjoy wildlife observation. One reviewer mentioned, "Wildlife watching, napping under a huge oak tree, friendly hosts, and we will definitely camp here again."

What campers like:

  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the quiet environment at Sandy Creek. A visitor said, "Sandy Creek is quiet with big spots."
  • Clean Facilities: Many enjoy the cleanliness of the campgrounds. At Mill Creek Park, one camper remarked, "The two ladies who manage the campground were wonderful and they kept the facilities very clean and tidy."
  • Affordable Rates: Campgrounds like Sandy Creek - Town Bluff Reservoir offer great value. A reviewer stated, "Great COE park. Spacious sites and great lake access. Can't beat the price compared to the State Park that's the next door neighbor to this park."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Hanks Creek, lack showers. A camper noted, "Showers need updating and better water heaters."
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in the evenings. One visitor at Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground advised, "Definitely bring bug spray for the mosquitos."
  • Site Privacy: Campers at COE Sam Rayburn Reservoir Twin Dikes Park mentioned that some sites lack privacy. A review stated, "Not much privacy. Wish I would have chose 43, drive down the hill a bit to unload, had its own private beach."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Rainbow's End RV Park is known for its welcoming atmosphere. A visitor shared, "The sites are large, either grass or gravel and offer full hookups."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep the kids entertained. One family at Shirley Creek Marina & Campground enjoyed playing games together, saying, "We absolutely love this park!"
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water. Campers at Mill Creek Park appreciated the clean swimming area, noting, "The swimming area is right by the spot but it was closed when we were there."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at COE Sam Rayburn Reservoir Twin Dikes Park mentioned, "If your RV is over 34' long, select your site carefully."
  • Bring Leveling Blocks: Some sites may not be level. A visitor at Texas Rayburn advised, "Most sites slope, so need those levelers."
  • Stay Connected: Check cell service availability. One camper at Hanks Creek noted, "Cell Service (AT&T): 3 bars."

Camping near Big Thicket National Preserve, Texas, is a fantastic way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Big Thicket National Preserve?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Big Thicket National Preserve offers a wide range of camping options, with 85 campgrounds and RV parks near Big Thicket National Preserve and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Big Thicket National Preserve?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Big Thicket National Preserve is Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 38 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Big Thicket National Preserve?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Big Thicket National Preserve.

  • What parks are near Big Thicket National Preserve?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Big Thicket National Preserve that allow camping, notably Steinhagen Lake and Angelina National Forest.