Camping near Big Thicket National Preserve offers a range of waterfront options with several campgrounds providing direct access to east Texas waterways. The region sits at an average elevation of 90 feet above sea level with a humid subtropical climate featuring hot summers and mild winters. Most campgrounds in the area feature full or partial hookups, though water levels in reservoirs can fluctuate seasonally affecting shoreline access.
What to do
Water trail exploration: Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground features mapped paddling routes suitable for beginners through experienced kayakers. A camper noted, "Nice park. Beautiful trees. Site 301 is pull through with plenty of room for 5Th wheel. Near water and kayak launch."
Wildlife photography: Bring a camera with zoom lens for capturing wildlife from a safe distance. "We tented here on a rainy weekend unfortunately. It was a nice site right near the water, and we saw a lot of wildlife like an armadillo, raccoon, and deer," shared one visitor at Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground.
Fishing access: Shore fishing opportunities exist directly from many campsites, especially at Magnolia Ridge. A reviewer commented, "Sites are very spacious. The one we had was right by the water so we only had to walk a few steps to fish. We stayed for 12 days."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campsites offer generous spacing, particularly at Corps of Engineers campgrounds. "Tent site we stayed at was great. Well shaded and not too close to other camper sites," reported a visitor at Lake Livingston State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Restrooms and shower buildings receive regular maintenance at most area campgrounds. A camper at Village Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "The bathhouse is clean and has hot showers. There are a lot of water activities nice hiking trails."
Star viewing: Limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. "The park is big and wherever you go is really nice with great things to see and nice hike trails bathrooms clean. Great park," shared a visitor to Martin Dies State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal insect activity: Mosquitoes can be intense during warmer months, particularly near water. One camper advised, "We got out for a little bit to go for a walk and went to some of the trails which were scenic but super buggy. Bring spray and citronella candles!"
Water levels: Lake levels can change throughout the year affecting shoreline conditions. "Deep into the piney woods and swampy outcrops of B.A. Steinhagen lake, I camped under the shade of a huge magnolia tree alongside very tall pines and oaks. Alligators are present all day and night near the water," noted a visitor at Magnolia Ridge.
Wildlife awareness: Village Creek State Park Campground and surrounding areas contain diverse wildlife including alligators. "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!!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "Stayed at site 333. Wonderful experience with the family. Lots to do and pet friendly," shared one reviewer at Martin Dies State Park.
Water safety planning: Designate shallow swimming zones when camping lakeside with children. At Tombigbee Lake - AC Indian Reservation, a camper reported, "My kids loved the park and the island that was in the middle of the lake. Kayaked, hiked and fished."
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer junior ranger programs and nature centers. "Connected to the park store they had a small educational space for young kids with a functioning beehive. The kids (ages 2-6) loved it," noted a Lake Livingston visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling preparation: Several campgrounds require additional leveling equipment. "Site 12 was level. Park did have a nice shower house as well as some nice hiking trails and the staff was extremely courteous," reported a visitor to Village Creek State Park.
Power protection: Bring surge protectors for electrical connections, especially during storm season. "Power interruptions, albeit short. Very glad we had our power surge protector," advised a camper at Lake Livingston State Park.
Glamping options: For those seeking upscale glamping close to Big Thicket National Preserve, Woodsy Hollow Campground & RV Resort offers full-service sites with comfort amenities. A visitor commented, "We loved this campground. Site 18 was pretty level and had full hook ups. The campground overall was really very quiet and peaceful."
