Village Creek State Park in Lumberton provides RV camping within 30 minutes of Orange, Texas. The park reopened completely after Hurricane Harvey flooding damage in 2017. Campsites feature level pull-through asphalt pads with 30/50 amp electrical hookups and water connections. The campground's wetland-forest ecosystem supports diverse wildlife but creates significant mosquito activity, particularly during summer months and evening hours.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Village Creek State Park offers direct water access for paddlers exploring the creek systems. "We enjoyed Christmas in this quiet park... river for kayaking all add to enjoyment," notes Kevin H., who appreciated the park's water recreation options.
Bird watching opportunities: Sea Rim State Park provides excellent bird viewing during migration seasons. "Reserve far in advance if you want to see bird migration activity," advises Kelly E., highlighting the park's popularity among birders.
Alligator viewing: The marshland trails at Sea Rim State Park offer opportunities to observe native wildlife in their natural habitat. Vanessa L. reports, "The nature trail over the marsh was really cool, we saw lots of alligators and birds."
Beach exploration: Sea Rim State Park allows visitors to collect shells along its shoreline. "The beach was ok, not the nicest I've ever seen but the kids loved it. Lots of shells and treasures to be found," notes Vanessa L., describing the beach experience.
What campers like
Private walk-in sites: Village Creek State Park offers tent camping areas away from the RV section. "We enjoyed the privacy of the non powered camp sites. Very nice," shares Melanie C., emphasizing the secluded nature of these areas.
Clean facilities: Bathroom facilities at Village Creek receive regular maintenance. "Easy walk to clean restroom with hot showers... restrooms and showers well maintained and cleaned daily," notes Daniel L., describing the campground amenities.
Beach camping options: Primitive beach sites at Sea Rim provide direct ocean access. Joshua H. reports, "If you pull onto the beach and drive either on the west or east to beach... find a spot in the sand that you really like that can be your campsite. This is one of the few state parks that really does have primitive camping on the beach just yards from the seashore."
Marsh ecosystem: The park's diverse terrain offers multiple habitats to explore. "Absolutely beautiful area with diverse environment to explore. You can stay in cabins, regular RV/tent sites with power, or out on the beach with no amenities," shares Lynn G. about Sea Rim State Park.
What you should know
Industrial surroundings: Claiborne West Park and nearby areas often have active industrial facilities. "The drive through the LNG plants is interesting," notes Kelly E., describing the approach to Sea Rim State Park.
Grocery access limitations: Village Creek State Park requires planning for food supplies. "Prepare to drive 20 minutes to grocery," advises Phoebe M., highlighting the distance to shopping areas.
Gate closure enforcement: Sea Rim enforces strict access hours. "This is the only park - national, state, regional or otherwise - that I've encountered that literally locks their gate at night... There is no way in, no way out until the next morning," warns Katie M.
Cell service variability: Communication can be unreliable in some campgrounds. "There is no cell signal or wi-fi," notes Phoebe M. about Village Creek State Park, suggesting campers should plan accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Mosquito preparation: Sea Rim State Park requires comprehensive insect protection, especially for children. "Get bug spray from office PRIOR TO DOING ANYTHING!" emphasizes Mendy S., indicating the severity of the mosquito situation.
Nature center activities: Village Creek offers educational programs for children. "The nature center was open and we made seed balls to distribute throughout the garden area. The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable," shares Emily S.
Beach selection considerations: Choose beach camping areas carefully based on conditions. "Not a great beach to camp on in stormy weather. No rock/sea wall to slow the surge or wave action," advises Kelly E. about Sea Rim State Park.
High-pressure showers: Village Creek provides quality shower facilities for post-activity cleanup. "For those who have showered in an RV, let me say that the high pressure, hot shower is great," notes Kevin H., highlighting an appreciated amenity.
Tips from RVers
Storm impact awareness: Village Creek State Park periodically experiences flooding that affects access. "Hurricane Harvey flooded most of the park in 2017 but now it is completely open," reports Bradley H., indicating the park's vulnerability to severe weather events.
Level site considerations: RV sites at Village Creek provide stable parking surfaces. "The RV sites are mostly level on asphalt pads," Charles S. explains, noting an important factor for larger vehicles.
Evening planning: Mosquito activity influences outdoor time at area campgrounds. "Once the sun goes down. An army of vampire mosquitos descend on you and your pets. We were enjoying being outside and we had to get into our trailer," warns Evelyn O. about Sea Rim State Park.
Dump station availability: Village Creek provides waste disposal options. "We had 30 amp and water hook-ups. Dump station nearby with two sides," notes Craig J., describing the practical facilities for RV campers.
