Camping spots near Lufkin, Texas are situated within the diverse ecosystems of the Angelina and Davy Crockett National Forests. The region experiences high humidity year-round, with summer temperatures regularly reaching triple digits and periodic thunderstorms that can affect camping conditions. Winter temperatures typically hover around 40-60°F, making it a viable option for off-season camping when crowds are smaller.
What to do
Fishing at Sam Rayburn Reservoir: Hanks Creek Campground offers excellent fishing access with minimal walking required. According to one camper, "Our site was waterside so I only had to walk 15 feet to fish!" The area is known for sand bass fishing, which is especially popular when in season.
Swimming in designated areas: Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area provides a small swim area away from potential wildlife concerns. As one visitor notes, "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."
Kayaking on smaller lakes: The smaller lakes in the area often restrict motor types, making them perfect for paddle sports. At Ratcliff Lake, "The recreation area also rents out canoes and has pretty good fishing or you can make use of the swimming area and the tons of trails for some short nice hikes."
Exploring historical sites: The region contains interesting historical remnants. At Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area, "Remnants of old sawmill is really cool, lots of wildlife and well maintained and marked trails to explore."
What campers like
Concrete RV pads: Lufkin KOA Journey receives high marks for its level concrete pads. According to one reviewer, "This RV park is one of the nicest we've seen. The pads appear to be newly poured concrete. All very level. The hookups are in good working order."
Privacy between sites: Unlike many campgrounds, several locations offer good separation between campsites. One camper noted about Ratcliff Lake, "Well spaced out, but not huge sites (both RV hookup electric and Non 'tent only') which allow you to not really spread out, but at least people aren't on top of you."
Reliable WiFi access: For those needing to stay connected, Lufkin KOA offers dependable internet. A camper reported, "Wi-Fi was great! I was able to work without using my hotspot."
Free dispersed camping options: For budget-conscious campers, Angelina River Highway 59 Dispersed provides free camping with river access. While amenities are minimal, it's "a popular fav spot among locals" for those who enjoy fishing.
What you should know
Limited level sites at some campgrounds: Site leveling can be challenging. One camper at Ratcliff Lake noted, "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."
Wildlife precautions needed: The region has alligators in many water bodies. Always check with rangers about swimming safety and keep pets under control near water.
Bathroom facility inconsistency: Maintenance varies widely between campgrounds. One camper at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area observed, "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."
Hunting season impacts: Several campgrounds serve as hunting camps during season. At Slay Creek, "It's a Primitive camping area for Hunters during hunting season. There are no water or electrical hook-ups, but they do have two port-o-potties."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playground access: Hanks Creek offers amenities designed for family camping. A reviewer notes there's a "Great safe wholesome family atmosphere, clean, well maintained flush toilets, showers, children's playground."
Choose campgrounds with private shower facilities: Families appreciate individual shower spaces. At Hanks Creek, "Bathrooms are always clean and showers are private."
Consider the swimming options: Many campgrounds have designated swimming areas for safety. One camper mentioned Hanks Creek has a "dedicated bouyed swim area, no life guard but gently slopes on sand."
Pack extra bug spray: Insects are prevalent throughout the region. A camper at Hanks Creek warned, "You just have to have a case of bug spray to fend off the mosquitoes and bugs."
Tips from RVers
Bring extra water hose: At some campgrounds, water hookups may be farther from sites than expected. A camper at Ratcliff Lake noted, "Water is a little bit of a stretch, may need to make sure you have plenty of hose."
Check for concrete pad availability: For easier leveling, seek campgrounds with concrete pads. Ford Chapel RV Park is making improvements but still has challenges: "Roads are mostly dirt. Pads are mostly dirt and ungraded some have gravel. Manager is trying to upgrade but it has a long way to go."
Be aware of seasonal burning: Some camping areas near Lufkin experience nearby burning activities. A camper at Ford Chapel RV Park warned, "Someone in the neighborhood likes to burn trash sometimes at night and it's fumes engulf the RV park."
