Dispersed camping near Shepherd, Texas centers in the Sam Houston National Forest, featuring primitive sites within the eastern Texas Piney Woods ecosystem. The forest spans approximately 163,000 acres with elevations ranging from 200-300 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing, requiring appropriate gear for comfort and safety.
What to do
Creek fishing opportunities: Rock Hole Dispersed offers access to fishing in its ponds. "Famous place where the limestone for the Galveston seawall after the storm of 1901. Has two ponds or waterholes. One is good just for fishing," notes camper Yasmin S.
Long-distance hiking: The Lone Star Hiking Trail Dispersed offers 130 miles of trail sections. Camper Dan R. shares, "Went 22 miles then turned back to Stubblefield Campground to stop. Too hot for an old guy, but it was a very enjoyable, well maintained, and well marked journey."
Wildlife observation: Sand Branch provides access to forest areas where various wildlife species can be observed during early morning or evening hours. According to wheels H., "I have bookmarked your website because this site contains valuable information in it. I am really happy with articles quality and presentation."
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Kelly's Pond Campground offers a secluded camping experience. "A Nice Slice Of Solitude. Kelly's Pond was a great one-nighter for me. It was very quiet, and I had no issues," says Jon D.
Affordable camping: Most dispersed sites in the national forest are free, removing financial barriers to outdoor recreation. Benzo F. appreciates Kelly's Pond for being "Free camping and apart from people. Only 1 bar of service. Definitely recommend."
Historic features: Rock Hole Dispersed offers swimming and historical exploration. Yasmin S. mentions, "Found big chunks of limestone all around still," referring to the area's history as a limestone quarry for the Galveston seawall.
What you should know
Limited facilities: The Lone Star Hiking Trail Dispersed has minimal amenities. Larry D. warns, "Zero amenities. No restrooms. No electricity. No cell coverage. Nada... So it's not a 'campground,' per se, but you can camp anywhere that's feasible."
Seasonal conditions: Trail conditions vary dramatically with weather. "It had been raining a lot in the preceding weeks. I'd call the ranger office and ask about trail conditions and what the weather's been like if I were you," advises Larry D. about the Lone Star Hiking Trail.
Long-term campers: Some dispersed sites may have semi-permanent residents. Jon D. observed at Kelly's Pond, "It did appear that some individuals have/had made this a more permanent home... They weren't bothering anyone, but if that's something that makes you uncomfortable, you might spring the pocket change for Cagle down the road."
Tips for camping with families
Check for locked gates: Some forest access points close unexpectedly. Jasmine P. cautions about the Lone Star Hiking Trail, "We showed up in the middle of night. There was a gate that was locked. It is a really pretty place if you can find a campsite somewhere else."
Bring proper footwear: Many trails become muddy after rain. Larry D. emphasizes, "I hope you have a good pair of waterproof boots... But the weather changed. It got considerably cooler and overcast and rainy. It wasn't constant, and it was never a downpour. But it was 50s and damp."
Consider hammocks over tents: Ground conditions may not be suitable for tent camping in all areas. "I'm glad I took a hammock because there weren't many places suitable for tent camping," notes Larry D. about backcountry camping along the Lone Star Hiking Trail.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions awareness: Four Notch Hunter Camp is accessible by most vehicles despite unpaved roads. "Any car should be fine on the dirt road, just take it slow," advises Jon D., indicating that careful driving allows access with standard vehicles.
Limited connections: Cell service is minimal to non-existent at most dispersed sites, requiring advance planning and offline navigation tools. At Kelly's Pond, Benzo F. reports having "only 1 bar of service," which represents better connectivity than many other locations in the forest.
Heat considerations: Summer conditions can make extended camping difficult. Dan R. notes about his Lone Star Trail hike, "Spent a few days in late July on the trail... Too hot for an old guy," suggesting that RV camping with cooling capabilities might be preferable during peak summer months.
