The Davy Crockett National Forest features specialized equestrian camping near Grapeland, Texas with dedicated facilities for horse owners. The region's dense pineywoods terrain offers trails that wind through seasonal wetlands and upland forests at elevations between 200-400 feet. Temperatures range from winter lows around 40°F to summer highs above 95°F with high humidity during warmer months.
What to do
Trail riding access: White Rock Horse Camp connects directly to the 4C trail system that extends through multiple sections of the national forest. "Nice area for dispersed camping. Several level areas. Great hiking/horse riding trails around. Would not recommend this area during hunting season," notes a visitor to White Rock Horse Camp.
Fishing opportunities: Ratcliff Lake provides fishing access for campers seeking a break from horseback riding. "We fished off of one of the docks in the evening and caught a little few perch. Enough to make me happy. Would have loved to be out on a kayak at sunset on that little lake," shares a camper from Davy Crockett National Forest Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area.
Hiking alternatives: For those who want to explore on foot, the forest offers varying difficulty levels of hiking trails. "Good for horses or bikes. You can go for miles even to a dispersed camping lookout point," explains a visitor to Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area about the extensive trail network.
What campers like
Natural setting: The east Texas forest provides a distinctive camping atmosphere with mature pine stands. "Beautiful little gem. The upkeep is outstanding, you can tell it's really looked after. The camp sites are close to each other but since it wasn't busy it felt like we had our own private area," explains a visitor to Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area.
Shaded sites: The forest canopy creates cooler camping conditions even during hot Texas summers. "Such a peaceful and beautiful area in the Piney Woods of East Texas. I wish we'd had more than 2 days here to explore. A lot of shady hiking trails that meander through the trees and near the quiet 4 acre lake," describes another camper at Davy Crockett National Forest.
Wildlife viewing: The forest ecosystem supports diverse animal species viewable from trails and campsites. "Nice, quiet, area to get away and enjoy alone or with family. Great trails and a small lake to enjoy kayaking, fishing, and swimming," reports a visitor about the natural surroundings.
What you should know
Water availability: Most horse camps lack reliable water sources for humans and animals. "Quiet national forest hunting camp with vault toilet and water, but no amenities at the individual campsites. Bring your own generator and dry camp," advises a visitor to 566 Piney Creek Horse Camp.
Trail markings: Navigate carefully as some trail sections have minimal signage. "The trails are nice but not well marked," confirms a reviewer at Piney Creek Horse Camp.
Permit requirements: Some locations require permits for overnight stays. "You need a Texas parks Limited use permit. It costs as little as $12 a year. If you want to fish or hunt the price goes up a little. Can be used to stay at any National Forest or Wild Management area," explains a camper at Alazan Bayou.
Seasonal considerations: Hunting seasons affect safety for horse riders in certain areas. A visitor notes, "Would not recommend this area during hunting season," regarding White Rock Horse Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Ratcliff Lake has a designated swimming area away from potential wildlife hazards. "There is a small swim area that you should utilize because there are alligators in the lake so it's not safe to swim by the campground," warns a visitor to Alazan Bayou.
Bathroom facilities: Comfort stations vary significantly between horse camps and recreation areas. "The park is so well maintained and the people who run it couldn't be more fit for the job. Camped here with my son for his first overnight trip, we loved it," shares a family who visited Davy Crockett National Forest.
Evening preparedness: Forest sites get extremely dark after sunset. "It gets pretty dark at night because there are no lights except what you pack with you," notes a camper, highlighting the need for adequate lighting equipment for families.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV pads vary in levelness across the forest campgrounds. "Our spot was nice and open and our neighbors weren't too close. Do bring an extra long hose for the water connection as other reviews have stated," advises an RVer at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area.
Water connections: Hookups can be positioned inconveniently at some sites. "Water is a little bit of a stretch, may need to make sure you have plenty of hose," warns another camper about setting up at the recreation area.
Primitive options: Horse camps accommodate smaller rigs but lack amenities. "Accessible via car, good roads, smaller trailers. If RVing, will need levelers," notes a visitor to White Rock Horse Camp, highlighting the need for self-contained capabilities.
