Sam Houston National Forest stretches across 163,037 acres of East Texas piney woods near New Waverly, with elevations ranging from 200 to 300 feet above sea level. The forest features diverse camping options within a typical humid subtropical climate zone with mild winters and hot, humid summers. Annual rainfall averages 45 inches, with precipitation distributed throughout the year, making forest conditions generally moist but subject to occasional drought periods.
What to do
Hiking the Lone Star Trail: The 128-mile Lone Star Hiking Trail winds through Sam Houston National Forest, with multiple access points near New Waverly camping areas. "Deep in the woods and on a nice shallow lake. Fantastic for walks around the lake, playing in the park, and fun trails," notes a visitor to Double Lake NF Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple small lakes and ponds throughout the forest offer freshwater fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish. A visitor to The Preserve RV Resort mentions, "We have enjoyed our stay at the preserve! Have 3 little boys who enjoy fishing and they have plenty of creeks and ponds near campsites."
Swimming in designated areas: The forest includes designated swimming locations during warmer months. A camper at Double Lake NF Campground reports, "An excellent quiet NF campground with a nice swimming area and ample bathrooms/showers."
What campers like
Natural setting and wildlife: The forest environment offers nature observation opportunities within a relatively undeveloped setting. "Campground not full. Very quiet, sites not on top of each other (some more private than others)... My personal agenda is all things nature related. The land, peace, plants, birds, land animals and TREES, water sources and types," writes a reviewer about Double Lake NF Campground.
Accessibility from Houston: Many campers appreciate the proximity to urban areas while still feeling remote. "We biked here in an hour or so from Houston. Beautiful little lake, relaxing hiking and clean sites. It's first come first serve and there was no one here. Quite a bit of wildlife and pretty good fishing."
Screened shelters option: Some camping areas offer screened shelter options that provide additional protection. "Campgrounds have a variety of amenities to choose from, including screened shelters, which are great if you get caught in a Texas sized downpour or if the mosquitoes are particularly aggressive," notes a visitor to SAM HOUSTON (Houston/Conroe/Huntsville Area).
What you should know
Equestrian camping near New Waverly, Texas: While Sam Houston National Forest contains equestrian trails, dedicated horse corrals or equestrian facilities are limited or non-existent at most campgrounds. Contact the Forest Service office at 936-344-6205 for current information about horseback riding trails and any equestrian camping regulations.
Reservation policies vary: Some sites require advance booking while others operate on first-come basis. "Quick place to hop in and set up your tent if you're out trailriding in the forest! 24 hour first come, first serve campsites, but I think you can also reserve spots on their website!" mentions a camper at Double Lake NF Campground.
Cost considerations: While some primitive camping areas may be free, established campgrounds have fees. A camper notes, "Quite and peaceful. A little pricey for public land but a great campground nonetheless."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options for children: The designated swimming areas provide safer water recreation for families with children. "It sits on a body of water with dropoff points for small boats! This is usually where I go!"
Playground access: Some nearby areas offer playground facilities for children. One reviewer at Happy Campers mentions, "Near by groceries store and town playground close by."
Fire ant awareness: Texas camping often means dealing with fire ants. "Great RV campsite #36. Pull thru and has great privacy. Walking trail around like is near. Not to many fire ant poles." This detail about limited fire ant mounds indicates a more comfortable camping experience for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site privacy levels: RV sites vary in their privacy and spacing. "Sites are spacious and we'll thought out. Will definitely return, as it was only an hour from Houston!" notes a visitor about campground layout.
Pull-through availability: Some sites offer easier access with pull-through configurations. A camper at New Adventure RV Park mentions, "Pull thru and has great privacy. Walking trail around like is near."
Hookup details: Electric and water hookups are available at several campgrounds, but sewer connections are less common. Be prepared for varying levels of hookup options depending on the specific campground section.
