Top Free Dispersed Camping near Houston, TX

Searching for a dispersed camping spot near Houston? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the trees or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Houston, TX (3)

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Houston Wilderness Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Houston Wilderness Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Houston Wilderness Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Houston Wilderness Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Houston Wilderness Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Houston Wilderness Park

    1. Lake Houston Wilderness Park

    10 Reviews
    27 Photos
    148 Saves
    New Caney, Texas

    Lake Houston Wilderness Park (LHWP) is a beautiful, lushly forested expanse of nearly 5,000 acres, located three miles east of New Caney (approximately 30 miles north of Houston) off Hwy-59. Lake Houston Wilderness Park is the only park in the department that allows overnight stays in cabins and campsites.

    Most of the park is heavily forested with over 20 miles of trails which provide a quiet escape from the bustling city. The park offers a variety of outdoor experiences for people of all ages including camping, hiking, trail running, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, birding, fishing and horseback riding trails (visitors must bring own bikes, fishing equipment, watercraft, and horses).

    The climate is usually warm and humid during the summer months and the winters are generally mild and short. The average summer temperature is around 90° but overall the average temperature throughout the year is around 67°. The average rainfall 51 inches.

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

    $7 - $150 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Kelly's Pond Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelly's Pond Campground

    2. Kelly's Pond Campground

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    27 Saves
    Montgomery, Texas

    This campground area located at the end of Forest Service Road 271. It has eight campsites with picnic tables, fire rings and lantern posts.

    Tent camping is available here. Individuals must utilize the adjacent parking area and walk into the camping units. The area is very primitive with no potable water or electricity. Kelly's Pond is a trailhead for the Sam Houston Multi-Use motorized trail.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • No image available

      3. Sand Branch - Sam Houston National Forest

      1 Review
      6 Saves
      New Waverly, Texas

      Due to lower elevtation, during periods of heavy rain, please contact the district office for current status of trails and campgrounds. (936)-344-6205.


      Recent Dispersed Reviews In Houston

      12 Reviews of 3 Houston Campgrounds


      • Camper-submitted photo from Kelly's Pond Campground
        February 13, 2024

        Kelly's Pond Campground

        A Nice Slice Of Solitude

        Kelly's Pond was a great one-nighter for me. It was very quiet, and I had no issues.

        It did appear that some individuals have/had made this a more permanent home, I had been here previously to do some "scouting" if you will, and noticed some of the same campers. They weren't bothering anyone, but if that's something that makes you uncomfortable, you might spring the pocket change for Cagle down the road.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Houston Wilderness Park
        December 10, 2021

        Lake Houston Wilderness Park

        Great hiking and camping

        Love the trails. My favorite is the trail that leads you to Lake Isabella. It can only be reached by hiking to it. Very peaceful. We have camped at LHWP and love it. Clean restrooms are a plus.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Houston Wilderness Park
        June 15, 2020

        Lake Houston Wilderness Park

        Not too bad

        Stayed here recently and it was “ok” didn’t like the fact that you have to park away from your camp site and walk everything in, especially when there are “roads” that lead to the camp sites. Also didn’t appreciate the camp staff riding their gator around camp well after 12am with their head lights shining in our camp.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Houston Wilderness Park
        September 25, 2019

        Lake Houston Wilderness Park

        I had a great time, can't say the same for my son

        I had a fantastic time  but I can't say the same for my son.  He never been camping before, loves X-Box....

      • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Houston Wilderness Park
        February 6, 2019

        Lake Houston Wilderness Park

        Disappointed

        Well we called and called to make reservations but no answer or call back. Noticed the visitors center we closed on Tuesdays, but there ding said the front gate entry was open till 6pm Sunday through Thursday so figured a Tuesday would be safe to find the spot. Got there and the gates are locked, no self pay because it's on the other side of the gate. I guess they are completely closed down on tuesdays. Very disappointed. Have a meeting in Houston in the morning. Had to get a hotel.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Houston Wilderness Park
        October 10, 2018

        Lake Houston Wilderness Park

        Really Nice Cabins

        I have stayed in the cabins here four or five times. The first two years we had smaller groups so we stayed in the A Frame cabins. The last three years we've had their biggest one. There is a creek that runs through it and it is never over populated while I've been here. The cabin we've used was flooded and has not been rebuilt so we are looking for other places to hold our Spring Camp out. I hope they rebuild.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Houston Wilderness Park
        August 7, 2018

        Lake Houston Wilderness Park

        easy backpacking camp sites

        There are 4 primitive hike in/out campsites that are a 1 - 2 mile deep. It’s a mostly shaded hike with gorgeous views of the river, woods and swamp areas. These campsites do not have running water, showers or bathrooms.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Houston Wilderness Park
        June 16, 2018

        Lake Houston Wilderness Park

        Love It!

        This park is just a short drive from Houston yet feels like you are in the middle of nowhere. It has various types of camping spots in different parts of the park and great hiking trails through varying terrain. Definitely one of my top picks near Houston.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Houston Wilderness Park
        May 3, 2018

        Lake Houston Wilderness Park

        Lake Houston Wilderness Park

        Stayed here twice with scouts, both times we explored the trails and peach creek. Lots of wildlife in this park, saw many snakes in camp and on the trails. Made it halfway down the Ameri-trail which was clean and easily marked.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Houston Wilderness Park
        September 29, 2016

        Lake Houston Wilderness Park

        Houston oasis

        Lots to explore, neat bridges, cabin options, ranger programs, horse trails,kayaking, wildlife. Modern recently updated facilities. Great park staff and everyone real friendly. Lovely trees & waterways, really does feel like wilderness, would come back.



      Guide to Houston

      Camping near Houston, TX, offers a great escape into nature with plenty of options for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet getaway, there are campgrounds that cater to all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts.

      What to do:

      • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Huntsville State Park Campground. One visitor said, “I got the chance to hike the Chinquapin trail. It was a beautiful hike.”
      • Fishing: At Brazos Bend State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing with your family. A reviewer mentioned, “Saw about 20 alligators on Elm Lake,” making it an exciting spot for fishing enthusiasts.
      • Beach Access: If you prefer the coast, check out Galveston Island State Park Campground. One camper shared, “Concrete pads, clean shower house, picnic table under gazebo, leashed dog allowed on beach.”

      What campers like:

      • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Stephen Austin State Park Campground. A visitor noted, “The nicest and warmest bath house so far. The park is awesome.”
      • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Thousand Trails Lake Conroe. One review said, “Our RV site was roomy and there were a few sites surrounding us that were not occupied.”
      • Family-Friendly Amenities: At Jamaica Beach RV Resort, families love the variety of activities. A camper mentioned, “There are so many things available to do, you truly don’t have to leave.”

      What you should know:

      • Wildlife Caution: When camping at Brazos Bend State Park Campground, keep an eye out for alligators. A reviewer warned, “Just watch out for the gators.”
      • Reservation Recommendations: It’s wise to make reservations, especially at popular spots like Galveston Island State Park Campground. One camper advised, “I would recommend a reservation to save hassles as this place fills up on the weekends.”
      • Limited Amenities at Some Sites: At Cagle Recreation Area, some campers noted, “No swimming area for the kids. No fishing pier. Fishing access is not great at the campground.”

      Tips for camping with families:

      • Plan for Activities: Choose campgrounds like Huntsville State Park Campground that offer biking, hiking, and fishing. A family shared, “Biking, hiking, fishing or just relaxing this park has all.”
      • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Make sure to bring plenty of snacks and drinks, especially if you’re at places like Wolf Creek Park where amenities might be limited. One visitor said, “The project is clean and well maintained.”
      • Keep Kids Entertained: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds or pools, like Jamaica Beach RV Resort. A camper mentioned, “Great staff, all the amenities you could want!”

      Tips from RVers:

      • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site, especially at Thousand Trails Lake Conroe. A reviewer noted, “The campground is huge and offers so many great amenities.”
      • Bring Extra Hoses: At places like Cagle Recreation Area, some sites may require longer hoses for sewer connections. One camper advised, “Bring an extra hose.”
      • Stay Connected: If you need internet, check cell service availability before booking. A visitor at Wolf Creek Park mentioned, “3 bars TMOBILE in A3 campground with no problems live-streaming.”

      Camping near Houston, TX, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Houston, TX?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Houston, TX is Lake Houston Wilderness Park with a 4.4-star rating from 10 reviews.

      • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Houston, TX?

        TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Houston, TX, with real photos and reviews from campers.