Best Campgrounds near Grapeland, TX

The piney woods of East Texas surround Grapeland with several campgrounds offering varied accommodations across the region. Mission Tejas State Park Campground provides developed sites with electric hookups and water in a historically significant setting, while Neches Bluff Overlook Campground offers free, more primitive camping with basic facilities. Several private campgrounds including Salmon Lake Park & Resort and The Ranch at Walton Springs feature cabin rentals alongside traditional tent and RV sites. The region hosts a mix of public forest lands within Davy Crockett National Forest and privately managed facilities.

Access to camping areas varies depending on weather conditions and campground location. Most developed campgrounds remain open year-round, though summer brings higher humidity and temperatures reaching the 90s. Winter temperatures typically range from the 30s to 60s, making spring and fall particularly pleasant for camping. Some forest roads leading to dispersed camping areas may become difficult after heavy rains, particularly at Neches Bluff where dirt roads can deteriorate. Cell service is limited throughout much of the forest areas, requiring advance planning. One camper noted about Neches Bluff: "The road up is a little rough. It's had some washout and needs fixing but keep it slow and drive around the wash out."

Campers consistently highlight the region's pine forest setting and historical attractions. Mission Tejas State Park receives praise for its hiking trails through the pines and historical features including a Franciscan mission replica and portions of the historic El Camino Real. Many visitors note the park's CCC-era construction and educational opportunities. Salmon Lake Park offers a swimming lake with a sand bottom that families particularly enjoy during summer months. Visitors to Neches Bluff emphasize the quieter experience with fewer amenities but greater solitude. A review described the area as having "beautiful scenery" and being "peaceful and serene." Most campgrounds in the region feature fire rings, picnic tables, and at least basic toilet facilities, with developed sites typically offering electric and water hookups.

Best Camping Sites Near Grapeland, Texas (68)

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Recent Reviews near Grapeland, TX

145 Reviews of 68 Grapeland Campgrounds


  • Alana B.
    Jul. 8, 2025

    Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

    Magical

    Beautiful little gem. The upkeep is outstanding, you can tell it’s really looked after. The camp sites are close to each other but since it wasn’t busy it felt like we had our own private area. There is a small swim area that you should utilize because there are alligators in the lake so it’s not safe to swim by the campground. The rangers drive around a few times a day. We didn’t do the trail this time around but will try it out next time. It’s great for big groups because of all the space. They have bathrooms with a shower and plenty of toilet paper in case you forget to bring your own. It gets pretty dark at night because there are no lights except what you pack with you. There is also a water spigot and a fire pit.

  • Heather S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 27, 2025

    Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

    Convenient. Clean enough. But underwhelmed.

    We came to tent camp and wanted to be on a lake shoreline. We stayed at #11 on Lakeside Loop.

    The positive:

    • The tent pad was nice and level and the site was very roomy (we had a tent & canopy) with tons more room to stretch out.

    • We were about 200 yards from the bathroom facilities and about 30 feet from potable water for washing up.

    • The traffic was minimal because it’s off the main road, and would have been peaceful if the group of campers at #9 had been courteous and acknowledged quiet hours.

    • We had incredible weather with a wonderful steady breeze.

    Negatives:

    • We did have a lake view, but the shoreline is so incredibly overgrown making it difficult to fish. Lots of rotted wood and brush blocks a great deal of the view and access.

    • The burn circle had a grate welded at an angle to the top, so it couldn’t really be used for building up a big fire or cooking.

    • No one drove around/checked to make sure visitors are keeping to the quiet hours, which meant we were kept awake until about 12:30 am from yelling and loud music.

    • The restrooms, while near, had not been cleaned before we arrived—toilet paper on the floors and in the shower area with lots of dead june bugs and spiders on the floor the whole weekend.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2025

    Neches Bluff Overlook Campground

    Very nice

    Great view. Just a handful of spots but it was us and one other vehicle. The road up is a little rough. It’s had some washout and needs fixing but keep it slow and drive around the wash out

  • Jim P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 17, 2025

    Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

    Very peaceful park

    Great camping area, sites are a little unlevel, but not too bad. Water is a little bit of a stretch, may need to make sure you have plenty of hose.

    Remnants of old sawmill is really cool, lots of wildlife and well maintained and marked trails to explore.

    Good fishing, and swim area is very refreshing as well!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 6, 2025

    Neches Bluff Overlook Campground

    Simple and secluded

    I’ve been to this campground a few times now during different seasons. It can get a little rowdy and also overgrown in the spring and summer….but it is perfect during a mild winter day. Come during a weekday and you’ll almost surely have the whole place to yourself !

  • Dan G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 21, 2025

    KE Bushman's Camp

    Terrible

    Drove 1hr out of way tried calling but no answer. Got to park and doors locked, not open, gated, (it is privately owned to be fair). Tried calling from parking lot, voicemail this time, left message and waiting a bit with no response. Had to keep moving as it was almost 5pm and had no idea where to go. Cracker Barrel, yeah!


Guide to Grapeland

Camping near Grapeland, Texas, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Huntsville State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "I got the chance to hike the Chinquapin trail. It was a beautiful hike."
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area. A visitor shared, "Fishing for catfish from the bank was great."
  • Swimming: Relax and swim at Wolf Creek Park. One reviewer said, "Amazing swimming area and lots of beautiful trails to hike."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review for Texas Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area noted, "Restroom/shower rooms were very clean."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the spaciousness of the sites. A visitor at Wolf Creek Park remarked, "The sites are nicely spaced."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. One camper at Mission Tejas State Park Campground said, "Staff was awesome and super supportive with any questions."

What you should know:

  • No Alcohol at Some Parks: If you plan to enjoy a drink, be aware that Mission Tejas State Park Campground does not allow alcohol. A camper noted, "NO alcohol allowed."
  • Limited Amenities at Some Sites: Some campgrounds, like Neches Bluff Overlook Campground, are more primitive. A review mentioned, "There is no cost to stay the night or to park for day use here."
  • Busy During Peak Seasons: Expect more crowds during holidays and weekends. A visitor at On The Lake RV Resort said, "The park was a bit crowded for the weekend."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Parks: Look for parks with amenities for kids, like playgrounds. A camper at Wolf Creek Park mentioned, "Small playground near swimming area."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a mix of activities. One family at Fort Parker State Park Campground enjoyed, "Great family reunions or just a fun day hiking and exploring."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with snacks. A visitor at Bethy Creek Resort said, "The beautiful picturesque views will ease the stress."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure your chosen campground has the right hookups for your RV. A camper at Texan RV Park & Campus noted, "The park itself is immaculate."
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Some RV parks can get busy, especially during events. A visitor at On The Lake RV Resort mentioned, "A lot of kids running around and riding bikes."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of local attractions. A camper at Lake Niederhoffer Campsite said, "This place was great. The lake was clear."

Camping near Grapeland, Texas, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Grapeland, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, Grapeland, TX offers a wide range of camping options, with 68 campgrounds and RV parks near Grapeland, TX and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Grapeland, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Grapeland, TX is Mission Tejas State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 15 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Grapeland, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Grapeland, TX.