Ebenezer Park offers equestrian-focused camping with sites specifically designed for horseback riders near Pineland, Texas. Located in the eastern Texas piney woods region at about 240 feet elevation, the campground sits within Angelina National Forest where annual rainfall averages 49 inches, creating lush forest conditions ideal for trail riding. The park maintains approximately 14 designated sites with concrete slabs serving as the foundation for picnic tables.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The wide, well-maintained trails at Ebenezer Park connect directly to surrounding forest areas. "The park seems very well designed for equestrian, but also good for tent camping. The trails are nice and wide," notes one camper experience. These paths accommodate riders of various skill levels.
Fishing access: Sexton Pond Dispersed offers quiet fishing opportunities within a short drive. "I got lucky enough had the place to myself for almost 2 weeks, give or take the few groups that tried to tough the biting fish," shares one visitor. The pond provides opportunities for catch-and-release fishing throughout the year.
Swimming options: Lake access provides relief during hot Texas summers. "If you want to escape the hot summer in Texas, I would recommend coming to Brookeland Campground because there is a beautiful lake nearby," states one camper. Water activities available include swimming, boating and kayaking at nearby lakes.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Tent campers appreciate the room to spread out in this equestrian-focused area. "Tent spots are spacious, although most sites do require a decent walk from the car," mentions one Ebenezer Park visitor. This separation from vehicles contributes to the natural experience.
Natural setting: Brookeland / Lake Sam Rayburn KOA maintains a wilderness feel despite being a developed campground. "This place is not parking lot camping," notes one camper. The property spreads out through the forested area with trails leading to water access.
Quieter atmosphere: The smaller size of many equestrian campgrounds near Pineland creates a more peaceful environment. "We went in early March for tent camping," shares one visitor about their off-season experience, noting fewer crowds. During weekdays and non-summer months, campgrounds typically operate at lower capacity.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Basic amenities characterize many sites in the region. At Alazan Bayou, "There are at least 14 sites with picnic tables on concrete slabs. Fire rings and lantern poles. No bathrooms or water," explains one camper. Bring all necessary supplies including drinking water.
Permit requirements: Some sites require specific permits for overnight stays. "You need a Texas parks Limited use permit. It costs as little as $12 a year," notes a visitor about Alazan Bayou. This permit covers stays at National Forest or Wildlife Management areas.
Weather considerations: East Texas experiences high humidity and seasonal insect activity. "Definitely bring bug spray because there were so many mosquitos near the campground. I left with a few pretty big welts," warns one camper about summer conditions. Spring and fall typically offer more moderate temperatures and fewer insects.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose locations with appropriate terrain for children. "We ended up being neighbors with a large group that was using their fire like a bonfire so we let the park host know about it," mentions one Ebenezer Park camper, highlighting the importance of selecting sites away from larger groups when camping with children.
Water activities planning: Lakes provide family recreation options during hot months. "My cousins and I took a trip to this campground to enjoy the lake, hiking and of course the outdoors," shares a visitor about Brookeland Campground. Morning hikes followed by afternoon water activities create an effective schedule for families.
Bathroom facilities: Toilet availability varies significantly between sites. "There is only 1 bathroom within the campground, or at least what we could find," notes one camper, recommending families bring their own toilet paper as facilities may not be reliably stocked during busy periods.
Tips from RVers
Access road conditions: Some dispersed camping areas require navigating unpaved roads. "Down a hard packed gravel road. A few potholes but nothing major," reports a visitor to Sexton Pond Dispersed. RVers should check recent conditions before attempting access with larger vehicles.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections exist at select equestrian-focused sites. Thirty-amp service is more common than fifty-amp at older campgrounds. Sites with full hookups remain limited in this primarily recreation-focused region.
Spacing between sites: Equestrian campgrounds typically provide more generous spacing. "The property is spread out. We stayed at a site with raised concrete pads," notes one RVer, appreciating the non-crowded layout that accommodates horse trailers and associated equipment.
