Best Dispersed Camping near Montgomery, TX
The Sam Houston National Forest surrounds Montgomery, Texas, providing numerous dispersed camping opportunities within an hour's drive. Free sites like Kelly's Pond Campground and Four Notch Hunter Camp offer primitive camping experiences with minimal amenities. The Lone Star Hiking Trail, Texas' longest hiking path at approximately 130 miles, winds through the region with multiple trailheads and dispersed camping zones. Most sites accommodate both tent and RV camping, though amenities are sparse. Sand Branch in the national forest provides additional options for those seeking solitude in a natural setting.
Weather conditions significantly impact camping experiences in this area, particularly after rainfall when trails and access roads can become muddy and difficult to navigate. As one hiker noted, "Prepare for a long slog through mud. I'm glad I took a hammock because there weren't many places suitable for tent camping." Cell service is limited throughout the region, with most sites reporting only one bar of coverage or none at all. During hunting seasons, campers should wear blaze orange for safety, particularly at designated hunter camps. Temperature variations can be substantial, with cool nights even after warm days, requiring appropriate sleeping gear.
Campers consistently mention the quiet, secluded nature of sites like Kelly's Pond as a primary attraction. "It was very quiet, and I had no issues," reported one visitor, though noting some locations appear to have semi-permanent residents. The Lone Star Hiking Trail receives mixed reviews depending on seasonal conditions, with some describing it as "well maintained and well marked" while others encountered locked gates or difficult trail conditions. Most dispersed sites lack drinking water, requiring visitors to bring their own supplies or water purification systems. For those seeking more amenities, developed campgrounds like Cagle Recreation Area offer additional facilities for a fee, providing an alternative to the more primitive dispersed options.