Village Creek State Park provides glamping options approximately 40 miles from Port Arthur, Texas. The park features RV sites with electric and water hookups, primitive tent camping, and cabin facilities. Visitors can access 8 miles of hiking trails through pine forests, though portions may be closed periodically due to longleaf pine restoration efforts. Mosquitoes are common in this coastal region, particularly during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity.
What to do
Kayaking at Sea Rim State Park: Launch from designated areas to explore marsh paddling trails where wildlife viewing opportunities abound. "We got a cabin and it was really nice: AC, unfurnished kitchen, comfy bunkbeds, screened deck. Bring your own kitchen supplies and bedding," notes Kim B. who visited Sea Rim State Park.
Fishing from the pier: Fort Anahuac Park offers shoreline fishing along Trinity Bay. "The bay is teeming with fish and beautiful birds. Locals fish here, so some traffic at night. Groceries and pizza place nearby," reports Leigh D. who stayed at Fort Anahuac Park.
Historical exploration: Learn about Texas history at Fort Anahuac Park where informational plaques connect the site to the Alamo. "I absolutely love the history of the area and think the area should be very proud of the display here!" writes a camper named Mooseknuckle.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Multiple areas offer opportunities to spot native species. "We saw lots of alligators and birds. The beach was ok, not the nicest I've ever seen but the kids loved it. Lots of shells and treasures to be found," shares Vanessa L. about her stay at Sea Rim State Park.
Quiet camping environment: Many sites offer peaceful settings despite occasional challenges. "Our first stop in the maiden voyage of our travel trailer and this park was good and kind to us. Beautiful, level pull-thru sites with plenty of space from others, shade and sun," writes Phoebe M. about Village Creek State Park.
Beach proximity: Several glamping options provide direct beach access. "You travel down coastal road to find yourself at this quaint little state park where there are actual sites and bathrooms and outdoor showers, but what a lot of people don't know is that if you pull onto the beach and drive either west or east, you find a spot in the sand that can be your campsite," explains Joshua H.
What you should know
Gate closure times: Check operating hours before arrival. "This is the only park - national, state, regional or otherwise - that I've encountered that literally locks their gate at night. The time listed on google or their website is a hard closing time, not just when the ranger goes off duty. There is no way in, no way out until the next morning," cautions Katie M.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be extremely prevalent. "Even with a breeze they came. 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. from Crystal Beach.
Park closures: Check for current conditions as some areas may be closed for maintenance or recovery. "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," reports Bradley H.
Tips for camping with families
Beware of mosquitoes with children: Plan outdoor activities accordingly and bring effective repellent. "We covered ourselves with deet, had a bug zapper, I even fogged the area with an essential oil blend for bugs. But nothing kept them away. I have small children, and don't like them getting eaten," cautions a visitor.
Visit the nature center: Educational opportunities exist for young campers. "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. about her experience at Village Creek State Park.
Shell collecting opportunities: Kids can enjoy beach activities along the Gulf 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. And very few other people around," notes a camper.
Tips from RVers
Limited connectivity: Prepare for minimal cell service in some areas. "Mosquitoes abound and there is no cell signal or wi-fi. Prepare to drive 20 minutes to grocery," advises Phoebe M.
Park on designated surfaces: At Fort Anahuac, vehicles must remain on gravel areas. "You may see power in the park but that is for use at festivals, not for campers. Park only on gravel areas, not on the grass, and no open fires," explains N I. from Fort Anahuac Park.
Dumping facilities: Not all parks offer full hookups. "We had 30 amp and water hook-ups. Dump station nearby with two sides," notes Craig J., who appreciated the conveniences at Village Creek State Park.
