Camping near National Forests and Grasslands in Texas

Dispersed camping opportunities in the Angelina and Davy Crockett National Forests cover over 153,000 acres of eastern Texas piney woods terrain. These National Forests and Grasslands in Texas campsites range from 200-400 feet in elevation and feature predominantly sandy soil conditions. Winter camping temperatures average 50-60°F daytime with nighttime drops to 30-40°F, while summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F with high humidity.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Sam Rayburn Reservoir at Hanks Creek provides convenient water access. "Our site was waterside so I only had to walk 15 feet to fish!" reports one visitor. Sand bass fishing is particularly popular when in season.

Hiking trails: The 4C Trail connects multiple camping areas in Davy Crockett National Forest. According to one camper at Mission Tejas State Park, "Only two hours away from Houston. Great park to shade yourself from the Texas summer sun. It was hot but 90% of the trails are covered by shade."

Historic exploration: Visit reconstructed missions and historic homesteads. "Texas was founded on this spot and the Caddo natives lived in the area. They are putting in a bigger interpretive center soon to commemorate the importance of this region," notes a Mission Tejas visitor. The park allows visitors to walk on one of only two sections of El Camino Royal accessible by foot in Texas.

What campers like

Waterfront sites: Many campsites offer direct water access along rivers and reservoirs. "It is centrally located on big sam for great fishing, nice clean," remarks one Hanks Creek visitor about the lake access.

Natural shade: The pine forests provide critical protection from summer heat at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area. One visitor observed, "Beautiful place! We are at campsite 10 right on the lake. Breathtaking tall trees. Well kept clean campsites with a fire pit."

Scenic overlooks: Neches Bluff Overlook Campground offers elevated views of surrounding forests and rivers. "Great view in mornings and nights 10/10," reports one camper. Another visitor described waking up to "beautiful views" after arriving late at night.

What you should know

Weather considerations: East Texas experiences significant seasonal changes. During summer, temperatures frequently exceed 95°F with high humidity. "Would camp here again. Was defiantly a hot one in august 108 when we got here at 4pm," notes one Hanks Creek visitor.

Permit requirements: Many dispersed camping areas in National Forests and Grasslands in Texas require permits. At Alazan Bayou, "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."

Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires high-clearance vehicles. One Neches Bluff visitor advises, "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."

Tips for camping with families

Swimming areas: Some campgrounds maintain designated swimming zones. At Hanks Creek, one visitor noted the "dedicated bouyed swim area, no life guard but gently slopes on sand. That is near boat ramp so wife can let daddy watch kids so she can fish."

Playground facilities: Lufkin KOA Journey offers family-friendly amenities. "Great playground, beautiful pool, friendly staff. Wi-Fi was great! I was able to work without using my hotspot," reports a visitor. The campground features concrete pads with grassy areas at each site.

Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer historical and ecological learning experiences. "If you're interested in ecology or botany, this is a great site to visit!" notes one Mission Tejas visitor, who participated in a university field botany class at the park.

Tips from RVers

Site selection: When bringing an RV to Mission Tejas, carefully consider which sites will accommodate your rig. One visitor cautions, "Sites are all on hillside, if you have an RV/camper I would rec the pull through sites. The back in sites really only work for tent camping."

Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer varying levels of hookups. At Ratcliff Lake, one visitor mentioned, "We upgraded a RV spot that also has a playground too." Another campground visitor noted, "No need to buy firewood at all. Plenty of cut wood around the park."

Long-term options: For extended stays, some parks accommodate monthly residents. A visitor at Red Barn RV Park reported, "Very friendly staff and residents. Mostly long-term residents. Nice facilities and pool. Privacy fence around lot and large shed to store in or use as an extra living space."