Best Dog-Friendly Camping near National Forests and Grasslands in Texas
Lufkin KOA Journey's pet-friendly accommodations include tent sites, RV spots, and cabins where pets are welcomed. Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area and Hanks Creek also permit pets throughout their grounds with convenient picnic tables and fire rings at most sites. Leashed pets are allowed at these established campgrounds, while Neches Bluff Overlook and Angelina River offer free dispersed camping options for those seeking a more primitive experience with their dogs. Most RV parks in the area provide full hookups alongside pet-friendly policies, including Fairway RV Park and Red Barn RV Park where management receives positive reviews from pet owners. The grounds at Lufkin KOA are notably clean and well-maintained with grassy areas perfect for pet exercise.
Dogs have access to numerous trails and water features throughout the region's campgrounds. At Hanks Creek, campsites are positioned just 15 feet from the water, making it convenient for both fishing and dog swimming opportunities. The primitive camping areas like Slay Creek primarily serve as hunting camps but offer excellent opportunities for dogs to explore the piney woods under supervision. During summer months, love bugs can be problematic for both people and pets, particularly at waterside campsites. Several campgrounds feature children's playgrounds adjacent to open areas suitable for dog walking. Most dispersed camping locations in the Angelina National Forest require a Texas parks Limited Use Permit, which costs as little as $12 annually and allows access to any National Forest or Wildlife Management Area in the state.
