Camping sites near Zavalla, Texas center around Angelina National Forest, with 31 miles of hiking trails crisscrossing through pine forests and creek systems. Elevations in this East Texas region typically range from 200-350 feet above sea level, creating gentle terrain suitable for most experience levels. The area receives approximately 45-55 inches of rainfall annually, making waterproof gear essential during spring and fall camping trips.
What to do
Hiking to historic sites: Follow the Sawmill Trail at Boykin Springs Recreation Area for a 5-mile round trip hike to remnants of an old sawmill. "Beautiful place! Host Jerry is cool guy, loads of information. Sawmill trail is very cool. 2.5 miles to the old sawmill and 2.5 miles back out. Loads of deer here," notes one camper.
Kayaking and fishing: Sam Rayburn Reservoir offers excellent water recreation opportunities. "I did kayak on the small lake for fun. Fished for days, caught nothing. Woodpeckers are here! As many other bird species," shares a Boykin Springs visitor. Multiple ponds and creeks connect throughout the area.
Swimming in natural springs: Natural water features provide cooling relief during hot Texas summers. "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 folding chairs in the water," explains a camper at Boykin Springs.
What campers like
Waterfront camping sites: Lakeside accommodations rank high with visitors to Hanks Creek. As one camper notes, "Our site was waterside so I only had to walk 15 feet to fish! The only downside was the love bug swarming that coated our rig in bug goo on the drive."
Private, spacious sites: Campsites throughout the Zavalla area typically offer good separation. At Sexton Pond Dispersed, "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," reports a recent visitor.
Wildlife viewing: The East Texas Pineywoods support diverse wildlife populations. "Many interlacing creeks. Water from down under pumps into creek which you may see by the 3 bridges," reports a camper at Boykin Springs. Another adds, "Loads of deer here."
What you should know
Bug activity varies by season: Mosquitoes and other insects can be intense during warmer months. A camper at Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground advises: "Beautiful park but so many bugs. Did some canoeing, hiking and bird watching. It gets pitch black. Restrooms are very clean and the rangers are very helpful and nice."
Cell service coverage: Verizon typically provides the best signal in the Zavalla camping area. "Verizon works well here, sprint sucks," notes a Boykin Springs camper. Service generally decreases the deeper you venture into forest areas.
Heat considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F with high humidity. "Would camp here again. Was definitely a hot one in August, 108 when we got here at 4pm," reports a visitor to Hanks Creek.
Seasonal flooding: Low-lying camping areas can flood after heavy rain. "The campground itself is beautiful, even after the recent heavy rains with the water way up into the camp," notes a Hanks Creek camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Shirley Creek Marina & Campground offers family-friendly facilities. "We absolutely love this park! RV and tent sites right on the water, beach area for swimming, boat docks and ramp, etc. The staff is so welcoming!" shares a satisfied camper.
Wildlife education: Children typically enjoy spotting local wildlife. At Boykin Springs, "We saw a lot of wildlife like an armadillo, raccoon, and deer," reports a visitor.
Evening darkness considerations: Most forest campgrounds have minimal lighting. "A very good campground to see stars at night. It gets pitch black," notes a camper at Martin Dies State Park.
Swimming safety: Natural swimming areas lack lifeguards but offer gentle entry points. At Boykin Springs, there is "a beached swimming area. Behind it is an explorable water trail that goes forever."
Tips from RVers
Site length limitations: Many campgrounds have smaller sites unsuitable for larger rigs. At Jackson Hill Park & Marina, RV sites accommodate larger vehicles, though one camper simply notes they "had an awesome time fishing and relaxing out here."
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited to select campgrounds. At Hanks Creek, "We had a shelter site, but also set up a tent. Reservations online were quick and easy, and when we arrived our site was ready for us," notes a visitor.
Road access considerations: Gravel access roads can have potholes, especially after rain. "Decent roads in and out, barely any pot holes," reports a camper at Boykin Springs, while at Sexton Pond, a visitor notes "a few potholes but nothing major."
