Jacksonville camping sites offer outdoor experiences in the densely wooded area of East Texas, where pine trees dominate the landscape at elevations between 400-700 feet. The region's natural waterways and lakes create diverse camping opportunities from RV parks with full hookups to primitive sites in the Davy Crockett National Forest. Weather patterns typically bring humidity year-round with summer temperatures regularly reaching above 90°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Jacksonville Recreation Area provides access to a clean lake that's popular for various water activities. According to Paul H., "Great spot, lake is very clean, we take the kids there for swimming and tubing. Also have a swimming area with a sand beach."
Train watching: At Rusk Depot Campground, campers can experience something unique - trains passing directly through the campground. As one visitor notes, "The texas state RR train engine car came through one time in the afternoon to turn around to pull the train back to palestine...that's pretty unique and a cool thing at a campsite."
Wine tasting: Located near KE Bushman's Camp, the Kiepersol Winery offers an unexpected pairing with your camping trip. As Marc T. describes, "Nice, well maintained park with the usual amenities. Very nice staff and a cool little store at the entrance. Just around the corner from the Kiepersol Winery and restaurant."
What campers like
Panoramic views: Lookout Mountain RV Park sits atop a historic state landmark providing exceptional vistas. Kathy H. mentions, "This is a small RV park right off a main highway a few miles outside of Jacksonville. The first thing you notice is the amazing view! You are able to see for miles."
Natural forest settings: The tall pines create a distinctive camping atmosphere throughout the area. At Neches Bluff Overlook Campground, campers appreciate the natural surroundings, with one reviewer noting, "Very peaceful and serene spot" and another mentioning it's "Simple and secluded."
Clean facilities: Many Jacksonville area campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. As Lori C. says about Shady Pines RV Park, "We were thrilled with the accommodations. If every RV Park is this clean and this easy to get in and out of we will be thrilled."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires preparation but is doable. Raymond H. shares about Neches Bluff Overlook Campground: "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!"
Campsite selection: Many campgrounds allow you to choose your site upon arrival. When camping at Texas State Railroad locations, "Even with a reservation campsite are selected once you arrive and drive through the campsite."
Water quality: Some campgrounds in the area have mineral-rich water. Campers at the Texas State Railroad mention "Sulphuric smelling water," which is common in parts of East Texas.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: The Boulders at Lake Tyler provides family-friendly amenities that keep children entertained. According to Brianna B., "They have a nice playground. The picnic tables at the sites looked new and all sites had a fire pit with a grill top."
Swimming areas: Multiple sites offer designated swimming locations for safer water play. The Lake Jacksonville Recreation Area features "a swimming area with a sand beach" making it easier for families with children to enjoy water activities.
Kid-friendly events: Seasonal activities enhance family camping experiences. Lisa P. shares about Rusk KOA: "Have been camping here in the summers and both Easter & Halloween weekends and they do easter egg/candy hunts and have other events for the kids/kids at heart."
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Concrete pads make setup easier at several campgrounds. At The Boulders at Lake Tyler, "Concrete sites made setup and leveling super easy," according to Brianna B., who adds that "The staff was extremely friendly and helpful - when we mentioned it was our first trip, they guided us into our site and gave us tips on setup."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds can be challenging. Forest service roads to Neches Bluff Campground are described as "pretty level and appears you could get an rv or pull behind through it. Plenty of turn around space at multiple sites."
Site privacy: At KE Bushman's Camp, Emily B. notes, "We stayed in a pull through here. Nice concrete pads, average size for the site for a privately owned park. Great little fishing pond, but not much else to do. I would say a good weekender or awesome stop-over!"
