Sam Houston National Forest dominates the landscape surrounding New Waverly, Texas, with over 163,000 acres of pine forest stretching across Montgomery, Walker, and San Jacinto counties. The forest's elevation ranges from 200-300 feet above sea level, creating gentle rolling terrain throughout the camping areas. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F from June through August, while winter nights can drop below freezing, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons for most visitors.
What to do
Kayaking on Lake Conroe: Launch directly behind your tent at Huntsville State Park where campers report excellent paddling conditions. "We got to use our kayaks, go fishing, swimming, and hike also. We actually had our campsite in a perfect place for we could put our kayaks in and out of the water right behind our tent," notes Melanie C.
Hiking the Lone Star Trail: Access this 128-mile trail system from Stubblefield Lake Recreation Area, where hikers can explore sections through dense pine forest. According to Brian V., "There are two bathrooms that were well taken care of and the park hosts were very friendly and well informed. There is a lake, but when I was there it was rather brown."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and evening hours offer the best opportunities for spotting deer, birds, and occasionally bald eagles. "I'm told there is great fishing here. We walked miles and miles on the trails and just enjoyed the beauty. Saw a bald eagle, which was an awesome experience," reports a visitor to Cagle Recreation Area.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds in the forest offer large sites with significant distance between neighbors. At Sam Houston National Forest Cagle Recreation Area, a camper noted: "Campsites were very nice with fire ring, picnic tables and full hook ups including sewer for RVs the atmosphere was very quiet relaxing and I will definitely be going back."
Lakefront locations: Several campgrounds provide direct water access that campers consistently praise. "Plenty of spots to space out even if it was crowded. Easy hike in, could have used a wagon for extra stuff," shares a visitor to Lake Niederhoffer Campsite, a more secluded option reached by a 1-2 mile hike.
Quiet atmosphere: The relative remoteness provides a peaceful setting, particularly at primitive sites. One visitor to Lake Niederhoffer remarked, "Emerald water on sunny days. Bluegill and small bass. Quiet and serene. Couldn't ask for more..."
What you should know
Summer heat and humidity: The dense forest canopy limits airflow at some campgrounds, creating muggy conditions from June through September. "The heavy thicket forest inhibits breeze so the area can become very muggy and humid in the summer as could be expected," advises a camper about Stubblefield Lake.
Water availability varies: Many sites have inconsistent water access. Chad L. notes about Stubblefield: "The water spigot at the sites were not working and honestly they have never really worked on my visits here but, I carry water as well so no biggie."
Camping reservations recommended: Especially for weekend stays at developed campgrounds like Huntsville State Park Campground, which fills quickly. "We loved our campsite and this beautiful park," shares Melanie C., though other visitors note the park often reaches capacity during weekends and holidays.
Limited swimming areas: Despite lake access, designated swimming spots are scarce. As Passion T. notes about Cagle Recreation Area, "Quiet and comfortable, we stayed during the week so there wasn't many people there... The only thing we wished was there was a swimming hole."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly trails: The 2-3 mile paved trails at Cagle Recreation Area are ideal for children. "Our first adventure into Sam Houston National Forest. Was a great one. Trees all around trails to hike around, full hook ups if you are in an RV or trailer! Tent spots available at all sites!" advises Justin R.
Wildlife education opportunities: Use early mornings for wildlife spotting with children. "Birdwatchers bring your glasses and journals, you will not be disappointed," suggests Teresa W. about Huntsville State Park.
Insect preparation essential: The forest environment means abundant bugs, particularly during warmer months. "I walk the dog a lot and run and road around the grounds needs to be repaved, lots of pot holes and uneven areas," notes a camper at Lake Conroe KOA, adding practical advice about navigating the grounds with children and pets.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require significant leveling equipment. At Cagle Recreation Area, Daniel L. warns: "Our site was really off level side to side. We have auto leveling and it wouldn't work it was so far out of level. We had to manually do it. Side to side isn't fun."
Extended hookup hoses needed: Some sites have distant utility connections. "Sewer hookup on some were a ways away so bring an extra hose. Mine was close but I seen others that needed 3 hoses. I always carry two 10 footers and one 15 footer," advises an RVer at Cagle.
Space constraints for larger vehicles: Carefully research site dimensions before booking. Daniel L. notes, "Also as with any park sites rig size vary as to what can fit where. So my advice is to go visit it and pick which one you think you'd fit into best and mark it down for when you want to go."
