Village Creek State Park provides cabin camping options in Lumberton, Texas, roughly 30 miles from Orange. The park sits at an elevation of 46 feet and features a blend of wooded areas and waterways. Most sites are set on asphalt pads with varying levels of privacy between them. Several campgrounds in the region offer elevated camping experiences with modern amenities while maintaining access to natural surroundings.
What to do
Paddle local waterways: Village Creek State Park offers water access points for kayaking and canoeing. "About 30 mins to Big Thicket visitors center and hike access. There are several nice hikes in the park but many were closed due to a long-leaf pine reforestation project that involved logging and shredding," notes one Village Creek State Park Campground visitor.
Beach activities: Sea Rim State Park provides beach access for swimming, shell collecting, and relaxation. A camper at Sea Rim State Park Campground explains, "This is a nice little park, only 14 RV hookup sites and they allow camping in tents on the beach. The sites were very close to the boardwalk that takes you over the dunes and to the beach."
Wildlife observation: Look for alligators, turtles, and birds from designated viewing areas. "The nature trail over the marsh was really cool, we saw lots of alligators and birds. The beach was ok, not the nicest I've ever seen but the kids loved it," states a Sea Rim State Park visitor.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer larger sites with good separation. At Village Creek, "We enjoyed the privacy of the non powered camp sites. Very nice," according to one camper who appreciated the secluded feel.
Water activities: Many campgrounds provide direct access to water recreation. A visitor to Whispering Meadow RV Park mentioned the boat-in access, which makes it convenient for those arriving by water or wanting to launch personal watercraft.
Clean facilities: Updated bathhouses and shower facilities receive positive mentions. "Bath house is close by but we honestly didn't use it. Nice wide hiking/biking trails, lots of water access, beautiful new bridges and a nice big playground," reports a Sam Houston Jones State Park camper.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Insect repellent is essential in this region, particularly at dusk. "Get bug spray from office PRIOR TO DOING ANYTHING!" warns a Sea Rim State Park visitor who experienced the notorious coastal insects firsthand.
Weather impacts: The area is prone to flooding and hurricane damage. "Hurricane Harvey flooded most of the park in 2017 but now it is completely open. The park is very nice. It is very typical of Texas parks.... awesome!!" notes a Village Creek State Park camper.
Gate closing times: Check park entrance rules before arrival. "I've been camping around the country for four months straight now and this is the only park - national, state, regional or otherwise - that I've encountered that literally locks their gate at night," cautions a Sea Rim visitor who couldn't enter after 10 pm.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: For glamping in Orange, Texas with children, consider resorts with water features. "Lots to do with pool, water slide, water play area mini golf and fishing," mentions a visitor to Little Lake Charles Resort, highlighting activities beyond traditional camping.
Playground access: Several parks offer play areas for children. Village Creek State Park provides recreation areas suitable for various ages, while Sam Houston Jones State Park features a "nice big playground" according to recent visitors.
Grocery planning: Stock up before arrival as some parks are remote. "Prepare to drive 20 minutes to grocery," advises a Village Creek camper, noting the distance to shopping facilities from the park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Bring leveling blocks for uneven pads. "Most of the campground is not level, but nothing bad enough that you can't get level with blocks," notes a visitor to Sam Houston Jones State Park who stayed for a week.
Hook-up variations: Check what utilities are available at specific sites. "Some spots have full hook-up, while others are electricity and water only. Ours was electricity and water only. The dump station is nearby and if you need to dump with a tote you could easily do so," explains an RVer at Sam Houston Jones State Park.
Nearby amenities: For glamping near Orange, Texas, consider proximity to urban conveniences. "Lake Charles and Sulphur are not far away and have anything you need while visiting," mentions a Sam Houston Jones visitor, highlighting the balance between natural settings and access to services.
