Best Campgrounds near Huntsville, TX

The Sam Houston National Forest surrounds much of the Huntsville camping area, covering over 163,000 acres of East Texas piney woods. Camping opportunities exist along multiple small lakes and ponds throughout the forest, with elevations ranging from 200 to 300 feet above sea level. Most primitive sites in the national forest can be accessed year-round, though winter brings temperatures that regularly drop into the 30s at night.

What to do

Hiking the Lone Star Trail: The 129-mile Lone Star Hiking Trail runs through Sam Houston National Forest with access points near several campgrounds. "There are many other trails in that area that you can check out," notes a camper at Kelly's Pond Campground. The trail includes designated primitive sites for through-hikers.

Fishing in forest lakes: Multiple small lakes throughout the area provide fishing opportunities away from the more crowded Lake Conroe. At Lake Niederhoffer Campsite, one visitor reported: "The lake was clear and whether or not it was a good idea, we swam in it as did all our dogs. Great temperature water."

Horseback riding: Some areas of the forest accommodate equestrian activities. While not all campgrounds have facilities specifically for horses, trails throughout the national forest system allow riding. Pack extra water during summer months as humidity can affect animals.

Wildlife observation: The forest hosts diverse wildlife including deer, snakes, and occasionally otters. A camper at Lake Niederhoffer noted, "Saw an otter and a little snake. Heard a lot more than that at night, entire forest seemed to be alive, with coyotes howling, something snorting, footsteps all over the place, a donkey making noise."

What campers like

Secluded tent sites: Several campgrounds offer more private tent camping away from RV areas. "We tent camped and we weren't too close to the people around us. Completely surrounded by huge trees," reported a visitor to Huntsville State Park Campground. Pine trees create natural separation between sites in many locations.

Off-highway vehicle trails: For those seeking motorized recreation, Sam Houston National Forest contains designated OHV areas. Kelly's Pond serves as a frequent staging area. "This little pond is tucked back in the San Houston National Forest a few minutes off the interstate. I use this area to prepare for longer trips since it is so close to home," writes one camper.

Night sky and sounds: Many forest campgrounds offer limited light pollution for stargazing. The natural soundscape receives frequent mention in reviews. At Stubblefield Lake Recreation Area, one camper described: "Heard a lot of birds (pine warblers, yellow-bellied sapsuckers especially) if you're into that."

Budget-friendly options: Multiple free or low-cost camping options exist throughout the forest. "Looking for a single, free spot to camp for a few days? This little pond is tucked back in the San Houston National Forest a few minutes off the interstate," notes a Kelly's Pond camper.

What you should know

Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly across the forest. Most primitive sites have spotty service at best. A Lake Niederhoffer camper mentioned, "very spotty cell signal. but great spot to get away and forget about the world."

Seasonal hunting: During hunting seasons, hikers and campers should take precautions. For Four Notch Hunter Camp, a reviewer warns: "Very quiet, except during hunting season (wear blaze orange!!!)."