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Best Campgrounds near Nacogdoches, TX

201 Reviews

The Nacogdoches area in East Texas features a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed camping options within the Piney Woods region. Campground options range from full-service RV parks like Red Barn RV Park and Fairway RV Park within city limits to more rustic experiences at Camp Tonkawa Springs RV Park and Campground in nearby Garrison. The Angelina River/Hwy 59 Dispersed camping area provides free primitive camping for both tent and RV users seeking a more secluded experience. Neches Bluff Overlook Campground offers another dispersed camping option with toilet facilities but no hookups. Several campgrounds in the area accommodate various camping styles including tent camping, RV sites with full hookups, and cabin rentals at locations like Lufkin KOA Journey.

East Texas weather patterns significantly impact camping conditions, with hot, humid summers and mild winters typical for the region. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though spring and fall offer more comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities. Water access varies across sites, with locations like Alazan Bayou WMA providing lakeside tent camping opportunities. Cell service can be limited at more remote locations, particularly in the national forest areas. Road conditions generally allow standard vehicle access to most established campgrounds, though some dispersed sites may require higher clearance vehicles. "More than meets the eye here. Texas was founded on this spot and the Caddo natives lived in the area. Short drive to the beautiful town of Nacogdoches and its lovely gardens," noted one visitor about nearby Mission Tejas State Park.

Campers consistently mention the tall pine forests as a defining characteristic of the camping experience in this region. The dense tree cover provides welcome shade during hot months but can limit views at some locations. Several visitors highlighted the peaceful atmosphere of camping beneath the East Texas pines, particularly at sites within the Davy Crockett National Forest. "Great campground in the Pineywoods of east Texas. Nice size sites with plenty of room between," wrote one camper about Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area. Water features are another draw, with fishing opportunities available at several locations. Noise levels vary significantly between campgrounds, with some reviewers noting highway sounds at certain sites while others praised the quiet solitude of more remote camping areas. Wildlife viewing opportunities include birds, deer, and other forest creatures typical to the East Texas ecosystem.

Map showing campgrounds near Nacogdoches, TexasExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Nacogdoches, Texas (89)

    1. Red Barn RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Nacogdoches, TX
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (936) 564-0248

    "Privacy fence around lot and large shed to store in or use as an extra living space."

    2. Fairway RV Park

    1 Review
    Nacogdoches, TX
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (936) 462-9900

    3. Camp Tonkawa Springs RV Park and Campground

    6 Reviews
    Mount Enterprise, TX
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (936) 564-8888

    "TEXAS!! Has exploring trails and even some wildlife roaming if you are a camper. Has a mystical, Lord of Rings vibe. ENJOY!!"

    4. Alazan Bayou

    1 Review
    Nacogdoches, TX
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (936) 569-8547

    $12 - $42 / night

    "You need a Texas parks Limited use permit. It costs as little as $12 a year. If you want to fish or hunt the price goes up a little."

    5. Lufkin KOA Journey

    3 Reviews
    Lufkin, TX
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (936) 238-3721

    "It is located in Lufkin, Texas and has lovely scenery including trees and a pond. This park has everything including large paved pull-through sites with 30/50 amp."

    "Nice little spot right off the feeder road tucked back into the trees. Great playground, beautiful pool, friendly staff. Wi-Fi was great! I was able to work without using my hotspot."

    6. Angelina River/Hwy 59 Dispersed

    1 Review
    Lufkin, TX
    12 miles

    7. Neches Bluff Overlook Campground

    18 Reviews
    Alto, TX
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (936) 655-2299

    "We took our kids and set up camp in a spot tucked away from the main dirt road. The camp site was serene and there was a hiking trail nearby. We car camped with two toddlers and they had a blast."

    "I spent one night over there we enjoy it me and my dog had some breakfast in the morning stay until about 1 PM and then we win unexplored around, and then enjoy some off roads. I be back."

    8. Shady Pines RV Park

    Be the first to review!
    Nacogdoches, TX
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (936) 569-3083

    9. Forest Country RV Park

    Be the first to review!
    Nacogdoches, TX
    3 miles
    +1 (936) 559-1645

    10. Hanks Creek

    10 Reviews
    Zavalla, TX
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (409) 384-5716

    $26 - $150 / night

    "Excellen place t spend quiet time by the lake! Such a beautiful setting in the east Texas Piney Woods! Our site was waterside so I only had to walk 15 feet to fish!"

    "Quiet, even on Memorial Day weekend, with a visible drive through by the Angelina Sheriff's Office on a regular basis. Highly recommended."

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Recent Camping Photos near Nacogdoches, TX

76 Photos of 89 Nacogdoches Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Nacogdoches, TX

201 Reviews of 89 Nacogdoches Campgrounds

  • Alana B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 8, 2025

    Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

    Magical

    Beautiful little gem. The upkeep is outstanding, you can tell it’s really looked after. The camp sites are close to each other but since it wasn’t busy it felt like we had our own private area. 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. The rangers drive around a few times a day. We didn’t do the trail this time around but will try it out next time. It’s great for big groups because of all the space. They have bathrooms with a shower and plenty of toilet paper in case you forget to bring your own. It gets pretty dark at night because there are no lights except what you pack with you. There is also a water spigot and a fire pit.

  • P
    Jun. 1, 2025

    Rosie Jones Park

    Rosie Jones Park

    It was nice and clean they had mowed. Quiet nites overlooking the lake there is no electricity other than few street lights or water. It does have a camp permit now $6 a day. Road is rough going in. More of Boondocking adventures except has tables scattered.

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 15, 2025

    Boles Field Campground

    Small Rest stop with dump station

    This rest stop has plenty of picnic tables, some grills, restrooms available and a dump station. Ididn't see any camping/ or overnight signs so it should be ok to stay there. Only downside it's that there isn't a lot of spots available for RV/trucks for cars it's ok.

  • Heather S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 27, 2025

    Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

    Convenient. Clean enough. But underwhelmed.

    We came to tent camp and wanted to be on a lake shoreline. We stayed at #11 on Lakeside Loop.

    The positive:

    • The tent pad was nice and level and the site was very roomy (we had a tent & canopy) with tons more room to stretch out.

    • We were about 200 yards from the bathroom facilities and about 30 feet from potable water for washing up.

    • The traffic was minimal because it’s off the main road, and would have been peaceful if the group of campers at #9 had been courteous and acknowledged quiet hours.

    • We had incredible weather with a wonderful steady breeze.

    Negatives:

    • We did have a lake view, but the shoreline is so incredibly overgrown making it difficult to fish. Lots of rotted wood and brush blocks a great deal of the view and access.

    • The burn circle had a grate welded at an angle to the top, so it couldn’t really be used for building up a big fire or cooking.

    • No one drove around/checked to make sure visitors are keeping to the quiet hours, which meant we were kept awake until about 12:30 am from yelling and loud music.

    • 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.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2025

    Neches Bluff Overlook Campground

    Very nice

    Great view. Just a handful of spots but it was us and one other vehicle. The road up is a little rough. It’s had some washout and needs fixing but keep it slow and drive around the wash out

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 24, 2025

    Sexton Pond Dispersed

    Great spot

    Down a hard packed gravel road. A few potholes but nothing major. Nice spot in the trees. There are a few fire pits spread out. We were the only ones here.

  • Jim P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 17, 2025

    Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

    Very peaceful park

    Great camping area, 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.

    Remnants of old sawmill is really cool, lots of wildlife and well maintained and marked trails to explore.

    Good fishing, and swim area is very refreshing as well!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 6, 2025

    Neches Bluff Overlook Campground

    Simple and secluded

    I’ve been to this campground a few times now during different seasons. 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 !

Guide to Nacogdoches

Camping near Nacogdoches, Texas, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Kayaking and Fishing: Many campers enjoy kayaking and fishing at Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Had nice spot right by the water. Kayaked by several gators. Very serene and beautiful park."
  • Hiking: Trails abound in the area, especially at Texas Mission Tejas State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "The park has a couple small campsites available for both tent and trailer, with price variation to reflect that."
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area often spot deer and various bird species. One camper shared, "Very well-spaced apart offering more privacy than usually afforded."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the parks. A visitor at Mill Creek Park said, "The two ladies who manage the campground were wonderful and they kept the facilities very clean and tidy."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at Hanks Creek mentioned, "Excellen place to spend quiet time by the lake! Such a beautiful setting in the east Texas Piney Woods!"
  • Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts are often highlighted in reviews. One camper at Texas Martin Creek Lake State Park Campground noted, "The camp hostess was the best - friendly, helpful, just charming as can be."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Neches Bluff Overlook Campground, have minimal facilities. A camper remarked, "There is a glorified porta potty and no water source, so be prepared for that."
  • Noise from Nearby Roads: Campers at Texas Martin Creek Lake State Park Campground mentioned noise from a nearby power plant. One review stated, "The power plant across from the campgrounds bothered us at night a little."
  • Bug Spray is Essential: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in summer. A visitor at Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground advised, "Definitely bring bug spray for the mosquitos."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Texas Mission Tejas State Park Campground, which offers trails suitable for kids. A reviewer said, "There are three hiking trails that are between 1.2-1.5 mile each, so we easily accomplished all 3 with our 4-year-old."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy. One camper at Hanks Creek mentioned, "You just have to have a case of bug spray to fend off the mosquitoes and bugs."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep kids entertained. A visitor at Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground noted, "Very quiet, and never crowded."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Some campgrounds, like Mid Lake Campground, offer electric hookups, which can be a big plus. A reviewer said, "Very quiet and relaxing park. Highly recommended."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some sites may be cramped, so check the layout before booking. A camper at Texas Martin Creek Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Camp sites are across the lake from a Texas Utilities generating plant and it is loud."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Since some campgrounds lack stores, it's wise to stock up on essentials. A visitor at Neches Bluff Overlook Campground noted, "Very primitive and off the beaten path."

Camping near Nacogdoches, Texas, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking a peaceful getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find camping spots around Lake Nacogdoches?

The Nacogdoches area offers several excellent lakeside camping options. Hanks Creek provides waterside sites with easy fishing access just 15 feet from your tent or RV, set in the beautiful East Texas Piney Woods. Another great option is Cassells-Boykin Park, which offers lakefront camping with basic amenities. For a more secluded experience, consider Lake Murvaul at Decker Hill Park - Lake Murvaul, a quiet lakeside spot with minimal amenities but peaceful surroundings. While these parks typically don't offer full hookups, they provide trash disposal and access to water recreation activities. Some sites are first-come, first-served, so arriving early during peak seasons is recommended.

What state parks offer camping in the Nacogdoches area?

Mission Tejas State Park Campground is a standout option located in the Davy Crockett National Forest. The park features hiking trails mostly shaded by towering pines, recently renovated restrooms, and both tent and RV sites. History buffs will appreciate its significance as the site of the original Franciscan Mission to the Caddo Indians, with expanded interpretive displays planned. Another excellent choice is Martin Creek Lake State Park Campground, offering diverse camping options including RV sites, tent sites (both primitive and with amenities), cabins, cottages, and screened shelters. Both parks require entrance fees and camping fees, with reservations recommended especially during spring and fall. The parks are typically open year-round, though summer can be quite hot.

Are there RV parks available in Nacogdoches, TX?

Nacogdoches has several RV-friendly options to accommodate travelers. Lookout Mountain RV Park provides comfortable sites for RVs of various sizes with necessary hookups. Forest Country RV Park offers toilets and big-rig-friendly spaces for those with larger vehicles. Additional options include Shady Pines RV Park and Red Barn RV Park, both featuring water hookups and toilet facilities. For those seeking more amenities, Camp Tonkawa Springs RV Park and Campground provides a more comprehensive camping experience. Most Nacogdoches area RV parks are accessible year-round, though reservations are recommended during peak spring and fall seasons when the weather is most favorable.

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