Equestrian camping near San Augustine, Texas offers access to multiple trail systems throughout the Sabine National Forest. The area sits within the Piney Woods region, characterized by dense pine and hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 200-400 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for horse camping.
What to do
Trail riding at Ebenezer Park: The trail system connects to surrounding forest areas with routes designed specifically for horseback riders. According to Trevor H., "It's a pretty tidy looking campground. There is a park host that is usually hanging around if you need something."
Fishing at Sexton Pond: This dispersed camping area provides access to fishing opportunities where you can catch bass and other freshwater species. Jennifer M. notes it's "down a hard packed gravel road. A few potholes but nothing major. Nice spot in the trees."
Swimming at Sam Rayburn KOA: The nearby lake offers a refreshing break from summer heat. Analia F. reports, "We enjoyed hiking in the morning, and then playing in the lake mid morning-afternoon. There were tons of people swimming, boating, tubing, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Sexton Pond, the dispersed camping setup allows for significant distance between camping groups. Yasmin S. mentions, "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."
Water recreation options: The Brookeland / Lake Sam Rayburn KOA provides water-based activities just steps from your campsite. Analia F. found that "If you want to escape the hot summer in Texas, I would recommend coming to Brookeland Campground because there is a beautiful lake nearby."
Natural surroundings: Many equestrian campers appreciate the wooded settings. At Brookeland KOA, Kimberly N. observed, "This KOA has trails leading to a river which empties into Lake Rayburn. The campground has a couple of small ponds. This place is not parking lot camping."
What you should know
Limited toilet facilities: Some campgrounds in the area have minimal or no bathroom facilities. At Brookeland KOA, Analia F. cautioned, "There is only 1 bathroom within the campground, or at least what we could find. It was a porta-potty style, and smelt so bad... Thankfully we came prepared and brought our own toilet paper."
Permit requirements: Some wildlife management areas require special permits. David T. explains about Alazan Bayou, "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."
Seasonal insects: The wooded environment means mosquitos are prevalent, particularly in warmer months. One camper at Brookeland KOA warned, "Definitely bring bug spray because there were so many mosquitos near the campground. I left with a few pretty big welts."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas have limitations: Not all water access points are easily accessible for children. Robert W. commented about Ebenezer Park that the "Swimming area is designated but kind of hard to get to."
Consider off-peak visits: Weekends can become crowded, affecting the camping experience. As Trevor H. noted about Ebenezer Park, "Probably won't come back unless in off season. But it's good enough."
Pack extra supplies: Limited amenities mean you should bring essential items. A camper at Brookeland KOA recalled, "by the 2nd night we were there, there was no toilet paper in the bathroom. We heard a few people complain about this."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility varies: Some campgrounds have better RV accommodations than others. At Brookeland KOA, Kimberly N. mentioned they "stayed at a site with raised concrete pads" and received "a tour of the property via golf cart. The property is spread out."
Gravel road conditions: Access roads to dispersed camping can present challenges. Jennifer M. described Sexton Pond access as having "a few potholes but nothing major" on a "hard packed gravel road."
Equestrian-friendly hookups: Horse owners traveling with RVs will find some sites specifically designed for their needs. David T. noted that Alazan Bayou has "at least 14 sites with picnic tables on concrete slabs. Fire rings and Lantern poles. Very well kept and mowed. There is a loafing barn for horses."
