Best Camping near Palestine, TX
Are you in need of a campground near Palestine, TX? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Palestine. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Texas camping adventure.
Best Camping Sites Near Palestine, TX (77)
1. Mission Tejas State Park Campground
Alto, Texas15 Reviews•51 Photos•46 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
2. Neches Bluff Overlook Campground
Alto, Texas12 Reviews•49 Photos•187 SavesThis is a trailhead for the 4C Hiking Trail. Neches Bluff Overlook, located at the north end of the trail, offers a panoramic view of pine-hardwood forests in the Neches River bottomlands with picnic and primitive camping facilities.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
3. Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area
Kennard, Texas17 Reviews•93 Photos•131 SavesOverview
Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area was built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It surrounds a picturesque 45-acre lake that was once a log pond and a source of water for the Central Coal and Coke Company sawmill which operated from 1902 to 1920. The facility is open year-round and includes a large campground, picnic areas, a reservable amphitheater, a swim area and many opportunities for outdoor recreation. Camping is available year-round. The Davy Crockett National Forest, named for the legendary pioneer, contains more than 160,000 acres of East Texas woodlands, streams, recreation areas and wildlife habitat. Located in Houston and Trinity Counties, the forest is centrally located within the Neches and Trinity River basins.
Recreation
Swimming, fishing, hunting, hiking and picnicking are the area's main activities. The designated swimming area and playground provides much fun for the kids (no lifeguard on duty). Fishing piers are available for anglers to try for largemouth bass, bream and channel/blue catfish. Only electric motors are allowed on the lake. Principal game for hunting on the national forest includes squirrel, deer, quail, dove, turkey and waterfowl. Three main hiking trails can be accessed from the facility: the 1.5-mile Tall Pines, 0.75-mile Trail Tamers and the 20-mile Four C, which winds through many types of forests to a scenic overlook. Learn more about recreation in the national forest.
Natural Features
The campground is heavily forested with loblolly pine, oak and other hardwoods, and surrounds Ratcliff Lake. A wide variety of wildlife exists in the area, including the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker.
Nearby Attractions
The Big Slough Wilderness Area, located along the Neches River about five miles north of Ratcliff, is free of modern development and gives the visitor a place for solitude and primitive experiences.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
$30 / night
4. Purtis Creek State Park Campground
Eustace, Texas23 Reviews•54 Photos•99 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$5 - $20 / night
5. Salmon Lake Park & Resort
Grapeland, Texas3 Reviews•11 Photos•5 SavesSalmon Lake is a 2 acre spring fed swimming lake surrounded by a 100 acre campground with plenty of space to explore and make new memories with friends and family. Whether you come for the day or stay for a week: you will LOVE your stay at Salmon Lake Park + Resort.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$22 - $200 / night
6. The Ranch at Walton Springs
Palestine, Texas1 Review•2 SavesThe quiet country setting of our cabins is a great alternative to traditional hotel style lodging. Whether you stay a night, a week, a month or longer, you’ll find the fully furnished cabins to be comfortable and cozy. In talking with our guests, we have learned that finding short term housing or furnished housing can be challenging, so we offer our cabins for Corporate Housing or Extended Stay. All of our cabins offer air conditioning, satellite television, and WiFi. All of our Cabins include basic kitchenware (Dishes, Cookware, Appliances, Etc) and linens. Most cabins are small pet friendly.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
7. Lookout Mountain RV Park
Jacksonville, Texas4 Reviews•17 Photos•24 SavesWe offer discounts for Veterans and First Responders. Please call Denny for monthly rates, as well as discounts!
Relax and settle in to your extra-large RV Spot. Sit and stay a while. Soak up the breathtaking sunrises, 35-mile views and incomparable serenity.
Every site has stamped, stained flagstone style patios and 50, 30, 20 amp service. We designed our East Texas RV park for the discriminating traveler who wants to escape the ordinary and experience truly sophisticated RV living.
Over 10 miles for hiking trails located on the property.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$45 - $55 / night
8. Rusk Depot Campground
Rusk, Texas4 Reviews•26 Photos•4 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
9. Buffalo RV Park
Fairfield, Texas1 Review•1 Save- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
10. Rusk KOA
Rusk, Texas4 Reviews•9 Photos•9 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 77 campgrounds
Pet-friendly camping near Palestine
Mission Tejas State Park Campground
46 Saves
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
Neches Bluff Overlook Campground
187 Saves
This is a trailhead for the 4C Hiking Trail. Neches Bluff Overlook, located at the north end of the trail, offers a panoramic view of pine-hardwood forests in the Neches River bottomlands with picnic and primitive camping facilities.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area
131 Saves
Overview
Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area was built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It surrounds a picturesque 45-acre lake that was once a log pond and a source of water for the Central Coal and Coke Company sawmill which operated from 1902 to 1920. The facility is open year-round and includes a large campground, picnic areas, a reservable amphitheater, a swim area and many opportunities for outdoor recreation. Camping is available year-round. The Davy Crockett National Forest, named for the legendary pioneer, contains more than 160,000 acres of East Texas woodlands, streams, recreation areas and wildlife habitat. Located in Houston and Trinity Counties, the forest is centrally located within the Neches and Trinity River basins.
Recreation
Swimming, fishing, hunting, hiking and picnicking are the area's main activities. The designated swimming area and playground provides much fun for the kids (no lifeguard on duty). Fishing piers are available for anglers to try for largemouth bass, bream and channel/blue catfish. Only electric motors are allowed on the lake. Principal game for hunting on the national forest includes squirrel, deer, quail, dove, turkey and waterfowl. Three main hiking trails can be accessed from the facility: the 1.5-mile Tall Pines, 0.75-mile Trail Tamers and the 20-mile Four C, which winds through many types of forests to a scenic overlook. Learn more about recreation in the national forest.
Natural Features
The campground is heavily forested with loblolly pine, oak and other hardwoods, and surrounds Ratcliff Lake. A wide variety of wildlife exists in the area, including the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker.
Nearby Attractions
The Big Slough Wilderness Area, located along the Neches River about five miles north of Ratcliff, is free of modern development and gives the visitor a place for solitude and primitive experiences.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
$30 / night
Purtis Creek State Park Campground
99 Saves
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
$5 - $20 / night
Salmon Lake Park & Resort
5 Saves
Salmon Lake is a 2 acre spring fed swimming lake surrounded by a 100 acre campground with plenty of space to explore and make new memories with friends and family. Whether you come for the day or stay for a week: you will LOVE your stay at Salmon Lake Park + Resort.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
$22 - $200 / night
The Ranch at Walton Springs
2 Saves
The quiet country setting of our cabins is a great alternative to traditional hotel style lodging. Whether you stay a night, a week, a month or longer, you’ll find the fully furnished cabins to be comfortable and cozy. In talking with our guests, we have learned that finding short term housing or furnished housing can be challenging, so we offer our cabins for Corporate Housing or Extended Stay. All of our cabins offer air conditioning, satellite television, and WiFi. All of our Cabins include basic kitchenware (Dishes, Cookware, Appliances, Etc) and linens. Most cabins are small pet friendly.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- RVs
Recent Reviews in Palestine
183 Reviews of 77 Palestine Campgrounds
Yasmin S.
Ranger
Davy Crockett National Forest Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area
Ratcliff - Natl. Forest
Has great camping. Entertains many hike trails. One even for handicap person to follow thru. Good for horses or bikes. You can go for miles even to a dispersed camping lookout point.
- Yasmin S.Ranger
Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area
Ratcliff
This is another Great in deep e. Texas. They have really clean it up over the years. Even thin out more by the swimming area and boat ramps. Has a boat ramp but no electric motors. Also a dump station. They upgraded a RV spot that also has a playground too. You will find remants of the old sawmill here.
Gloria W.
Scout
The Boulders at Lake Tyler
Food Truck and Park host!
The food truck food is not good. I got sick from eating food from there. Ted stores food in freezer without covering it up with lids. One of the park host was showing pictures. I saw the pictures and he also showed other park host. He is not a good park host. Do not ever let him borrow any money because you will never see it back. Do not put a bad review on Facebook because you will get blocked off there page. It's sad that's how they run a business.
Frank DomanskiScout
Shiloh on the Lake
K76 Lakefront
Awesome long term spot. Has a concrete RV pad that you can park your camper on or park beside it and use the very long pad as your patio, which is what we did. Management very responsive to needs and any questions you may have. This spot is on a very quiet area with minimal boat traffic. We had one camper behind us and they were super quiet. Super nice. Laundry at the office for reasonable price to use the washers and dryers.
- AAngela R.
Guide
Chuck's RV Resort
Great Place
This is a newer RV “resort” that is still growing. The pool isn’t open yet but will be very nice when it is. There is a pavilion for large gatherings, a camp store, and laundry on site. The roads and pads are all concrete with full hookups. The park is well maintained, aesthetically pleasing, and everyone is very nice. Give this place a try if you’re nearby.
Lockman L.Scout
Lake Athens Marina and RV Park
very good
Thanks for sharing your knowledge. The information is very detailed and clear, especially it is really helpful Uno Online. I appreciate your sharing.
miller C.ScoutChuck's RV Resort
very good!
I will keep this article bookmarked for future reference, confident that it will continue to be a trusted companion on uno online's journeys across this vast and dynamic state.
- AAngela R.Guide
Big Tex Campgrounds
Four Stars For Now
This is a new campground that is just getting up and running. The sites are all large and shaded with a picnic table and a fire pit. Our site was also a full hookup site as was the site of our friends that also came with us. They have a camp store and a laundry mat and a couple of small hiking trails. There are several other amenities coming. The only con is they will move you. I don’t care if you picked that spot out for a specific reason (as I did) when booking, it likely won’t be your spot when you check in. I find that annoying, but that’s literally the only con. The staff was nice, park clean, and shaded sites. I did not go to the restrooms (if they even have any) to tell you how those are.
jennifer K.ScoutCedar Grove RV Campground
Awful
Beware!!!! The new owners of this park are rude,unkind,selfish,greedy people. They allow drugs to run in and out of the park they leave the supposedly secure gate open all night long so anyone can come in. They don't take care of the park and everything is run down. They change the prices when ever it suits them don't believe the online prices. It's a shame that someone who was kind and generous had to pass just so people who never had to work or earn anything gets control over it and doesn't have any care in taking care of what was suppose to be a gift. It's just sad to see what the park is and has become from what it could have been and is now gonna be.
- BBrett B.Scout
Shiloh on the Lake
Canopy of trees and right on the lake
This is a great, non-- parking lot style campground. Every site is covered with trees, and though they are a bit close together you feel connected with nature. Two restaurants within walking distance. Shaved ice within walking distance. Kayaks available. There’s a nice designated swimming area in the lake, and a fishing pier. The hosts are very accommodating.
- Jinoo J.Scout
Limestone Lake Park
Beautiful lakeside spots!
Got in around 11pm on a Friday night and there were plenty of spots open. Woke up to an incredible view and more people around (but still not too crowded). Great spot for boating & fishing too.
Chuck's R.ScoutChuck's RV Resort
New Park
Came here because I am going to the Tech Acabemy down the road in Athens. I love the amenities here (pool, Pavillion, gas grilles, dog park and wash, pond, pickleball, other games walking trail, etc.). There are some really friendly people here. You should check it out.
- AAustin B.
Traveler
Neches Bluff Overlook Campground
Simple camping
Love this location everything was so simple nothing extra just simple relaxing camping and beautiful scenery
- ChantylTraveler
Rusk Depot Campground
Family trip
First & foremost, This park is not well-maintained, and the camping sites are right off of the highway. The splash pad does not work, and the bath house was terribly dirty and freaked of sewage. The group sites are basically a big parking lot- zero grass space between site numbers, although there is shared grass areas along the rows. We moved site numbers within the group sites so that our kids would not be playing right beside the highway (there is a gate, however it’s still concerning), and to slightly distance ourselves from the traffic noise. Beware there is also a large wedding venue directly across the highway & our kids were woken to the sounds of fireworks at night on the weekend. There were large fire ant mounds all along the concrete, and we had to purchase fire ant killer ourselves, as well as deal with some broken glass & the trash can for our site that wasn’t emptied before our stay. I spoke with the staff member working in the office and all she could say was “i will let management know.”
As far as the good: we had 6 kids and 4 adults staying, so despite the concerns and annoyances, we still were able to relax enough and enjoy our break from the daily grind. The kids played outside all day- making walking sticks, fishing a lot, catching bugs (spotted some really neat moths, too), and making up games.
The best: the nearly-daily trains coming right through the campground for various reasons (loading new cars or taking passengers on a local trip). My son is an avid train-lover and this was the main reason we booked our stay here.
Jake C.
Legend
Leisure Time Properties @ LTP Ranch
New to the Dyrt!
Jake from the Dyrt here! We're excited to have this campground on the Dyrt and ready for you to book, check them out and make sure to leave a review!
- JJon D.Guide
Neches Bluff Overlook Campground
Very Quiet and Beautiful!
This place was great! Nice, clean vault toilet, many sites, and rather empty. Any car should be able to make the dirt road in dry to moderately wet conditions, if it's been seriously stormy, I'd avoid without AWD/4WD because the road is dirt/sand.
- NNameGuide
Lake Limestone Campground and Marina
Diamond in the Rough
The new owners are going all out to make this a family friendly RV park/campground/marina. Only having it for 14 months, you can see the improvements made. There is a store on site for all your needs, that includes wine from the owners own winery. There a a grill also on sight. The campground is gravel pad sites that are mostly level (try site3). They have cabins if you don’t have a RV. Very friendly and eager to make your stay wonderful.
Our visit was a week before Christmas and the decorations were up and beautiful. Give them a try, as we give them a recommendation.
Kelly F.Guide
Tyler RV Park
Great location, clean and safe
This park is in a perfect spot on the outskirts of town. It’s really quiet, has a pond, dog park, walking trail and the road to town is beautiful. It’s only about 5 to 10 minutes from a fairly new shopping center and restaurants. Has a laundry facility on site. Everything is super clean. Anthony is great to work with and is very helpful. Neighbors are friendly and courteous. Wish we could stay longer.
- TTam E.Guide
Neches Bluff Overlook Campground
Beautiful Trees
Dirt road to sites isn’t bad at all. Several places to pull off & camp. T-Mobile getting one baby bar.
Navarro D.Scout
Lookout Mountain RV Park
relax
It sounds like a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of East Texas. Moreover, relaxing with the basket random game will be an extremely great idea.
- ttimothy G.Traveler
Rusk Depot Campground
Rusk Depot is a great hideaway camp site
I have been several times.
We love it,,,
Lots of tall trees. Very little if any biting bugs. Grounds keeper pick up trash daily. Staff are very friendly.
For more on this great place. go to our Facebook group on this.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/781897506027639 
Patrick B.TravelerNeches Bluff Overlook Campground
Peaceful
Very primitive and off the beaten path, our 02 Mustang was able to handle it. No site numbers just pop the tent wherever. Very quiet and beautiful.
- BBrianGuide
Limestone Lake Park
Update review
First off the name and pin don’t seem quite right. It is called Limestone Lake Park. The road to the pin is gated. No worries though on the other side of the road is an awesome camping area. It looks way too fancy to be free camping but it is. I had a lakeside spot and had the place all to myself on a weekday. This place seems pretty remote, so mostly local folks would be my guess. Waze took me right here when I put the name in. There is decent Verizon service here too.
- RRey T.Scout
Hidden Gem Campsite: Ben Wheeler,TX -private residence, single full hookup RV site
Great place to stay!
Beautiful starry nights, birds chirping, fresh air, friendly and communicative host that went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable.
Ashley F.LegendBig Tex Campgrounds
New Listing!
Ashley here with The Dyrt. We're so excited to welcome this new listing to our platform. Check them out and come back here to leave them some love!
- SSeeking NarniaTraveler
White Rock Horse Camp
Nice dispersed camping
Nice area for dispersed camping. Several level areas. Great hiking / horse riding trails around. Would not recommend this area during hunting season. Accessible via car, good roads, smaller trailers. If RVing, will need levelers.
- AAngela R.Guide
Shiloh on the Lake
Great Park!
This is a great park! We enjoyed our 2 day stay here. The bathrooms leave much to be desired (like air conditioning for one) but the park more than makes up for it. The sites are shaded and well maintained. The park has received some upgrades with more planned. The swimming area is well marked and nice hard sand bottom. We thoroughly enjoyed our time here.
Guide to Palestine
Camping near Palestine, Texas, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.
What to do:
- Hiking: Many campgrounds, like Tyler State Park Campground, feature numerous trails. One visitor mentioned, "The park has many hiking trails," making it a great spot for those who love to explore nature on foot.
- Fishing: At Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area, you can enjoy fishing in a serene setting. A camper shared, "Great place overall," highlighting the fishing opportunities available.
- Swimming: If you’re looking to cool off, Stillwater RV Resort has a lazy river and pools. One family noted, "The lazy river was slow... but that’s why it’s a 'lazy' river," perfect for a relaxing day.
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Fort Parker State Park Campground remarked, "Vault toilets were clean and had hand sanitizer," which is always a plus.
- Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness of the campgrounds. One camper at Purtis Creek State Park Campground said, "The camping isn’t primitive as such but it has campsites segregated by bushes, ensuring privacy."
- Friendly Staff: Good customer service can make a big difference. A reviewer at Mission Tejas State Park Campground mentioned, "The ranger I met at the gate was friendly, engaging and welcoming."
What you should know:
- Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have spotty cell reception. A visitor at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area noted, "No T-Mobile cell/data service," so be prepared to disconnect.
- Reservations Recommended: Some popular spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Tyler State Park Campground advised, "Highly recommend this park," indicating it’s a sought-after location.
- Primitive Camping Options: If you’re looking for a more rustic experience, Neches Bluff Overlook Campground offers primitive sites. One camper shared, "Very primitive and off the beaten path," perfect for those who enjoy a back-to-nature vibe.
Tips for camping with families:
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for children. At Jellystone Park™ Tyler, one parent said, "Kids loved every minute of our stay!" with plenty of activities to keep them entertained.
- Space for Play: Choose sites that offer room for kids to run around. A family at Texan RV Park & Campus mentioned, "The pull-thru spot we had was very spacious," allowing their kids to play nearby.
- Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds have food options, while others may not. A visitor at Stillwater RV Resort enjoyed the on-site restaurant, saying, "The burger I had at the restaurant was good."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Levels: Many RVers recommend checking the levelness of sites before booking. A camper at Texan RV Park & Campus noted, "Many of the sites are not level," which can be a hassle.
- Amenities Matter: Look for parks with good amenities. One RV traveler at Stillwater RV Resort appreciated the "large lounge with a grill/coffee bar/adult beverage bar."
- Community Feel: Staying at RV parks with other campers can enhance the experience. A visitor at Texan RV Park & Campus said, "Everyone that stays here is attending a class," creating a friendly atmosphere.
Camping near Palestine, Texas, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or a fun-filled family trip, you’ll find a spot that suits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Palestine, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, Palestine, TX offers a wide range of camping options, with 77 campgrounds and RV parks near Palestine, TX and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Palestine, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Palestine, TX is Mission Tejas State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 15 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Palestine, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Palestine, TX.
What parks are near Palestine, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 parks near Palestine, TX that allow camping, notably National Forests and Grasslands in Texas and Navarro Mills Lake.