Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground spreads across 702 acres in the piney woods of East Texas, situated around B.A. Steinhagen Lake. The park sits at an elevation of 80 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September. Winter camping offers milder conditions with daytime temperatures in the 50s-60s, making it a year-round destination for tent campers, RVers, and those seeking yurt camping near Silsbee, Texas.
What to do
Paddling trails exploration: Navigate the cypress-lined waterways with rented kayaks or canoes. "Great kayaking trail map and recommendations from the rangers on where to go. There is hiking as well. Spend an afternoon or a week here," notes a visitor at Sea Rim State Park Campground.
Wildlife observation: Watch for alligators in natural habitats throughout the area. "Alligators are present all day and night near the water. They aren't a nuisance," shares a camper who stayed at Magnolia Ridge. Bring binoculars for spotting birds and other wildlife from safe distances.
Night sky viewing: Take advantage of minimal light pollution for stargazing. "This camp ground gets pitch black. A very good campground to see stars at night," writes a visitor to Martin Dies, Jr. State Park. The dark skies are especially notable during new moon phases.
What campers like
Water proximity: Many sites provide direct water access for fishing and boating. "The site we had was right by the water so we only had to walk a few steps to fish. We stayed for 12 days," reports a Magnolia Ridge visitor who enjoyed extended fishing opportunities.
Spacious sites: Campsites offer ample room for equipment and activities. "Site 301 is pull through with plenty of room for 5th wheel. Near water and kayak launch," notes a camper at Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Restrooms and showers receive regular maintenance. "Very clean maintained small campgrounds! Bathrooms fair enough for low traffic and close enough for convenience," mentions a Magnolia Ridge camper who appreciated the upkeep.
What you should know
Seasonal insect activity: Mosquitoes can be intense, especially during warm months. "Bring spray and citronella candles! We tented here on a rainy weekend unfortunately. It was a nice site right near the water, and we saw a lot of wildlife like an armadillo, raccoon, and deer," advises a Martin Dies visitor.
Gate closing times: Check park operating hours before arrival. "This is the only park that I've encountered that literally locks their gate at night. The time listed on google or their website is a hard closing time. There is no way in, no way out until the next morning," warns a camper at Sea Rim State Park.
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs between campgrounds. "ATT service was good," reports a visitor to Woodsy Hollow Campground, though reception can be spotty in more remote areas or during storms.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. "The staff were friendly and helpful. My kids loved the park and the island that was in the middle of the lake. Kayaked, hiked and fished," shares a visitor to Tombigbee Lake.
Wildlife education: Use ranger programs for kids to learn about local ecosystems. "Wonderful experience with the family. Lots to do and pet friendly," notes a Martin Dies camper who enjoyed the family-friendly atmosphere.
Shade consideration: Select sites with adequate coverage during summer months. "We tented here under the shade of a huge magnolia tree alongside very tall pines and oaks," explains a Magnolia Ridge camper, highlighting the importance of tree cover when temperatures rise.
Tips from RVers
Campground layout awareness: Note permanent resident areas when selecting sites. "It seems on the left side of the campground is for long term sites so make sure you pick a site on the right side as you drive in," advises a Woodsy Hollow visitor.
Site leveling: Check reviews for information on pad conditions. "Site 18 was pretty level and had full hook ups. The campground overall was really very quiet and peaceful," reports a camper from Woodsy Hollow who appreciated the well-maintained site.
Accessibility from highways: Consider proximity to major routes for convenience. "Stayed one night on our way to Houston. Then we stayed one more night on our way back home. Was approx 2 miles off highway 59," shares an RVer who found the Woodsy Hollow location ideal for travel breaks.
