The Pineland area sits at approximately 240 feet above sea level in the Piney Woods region of East Texas, characterized by mixed pine and hardwood forests. Camping near Pineland offers direct access to two major reservoirs—Toledo Bend to the east and Sam Rayburn to the west—with campground elevations typically ranging from 170-200 feet. Winter nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing between December and February, though daytime highs often reach the 50s-60s°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities year-round: Mill Creek Park on Sam Rayburn Reservoir provides excellent bank fishing and boat access just 22 miles from Pineland. "My wife and I stayed two nights at an excellent spot (#14). The two ladies who manage the campground were wonderful and they kept the facilities very clean and tidy," notes John G. about Mill Creek Park.
Paddling in protected waters: Martin Dies Jr. State Park offers canoe and kayak rentals with mapped water trails for beginners through experienced paddlers, located 30 miles southwest of Pineland. According to a visitor, "Great trails and kayaking in the slough! Beautiful SP!" This park is especially good for wildlife viewing from the water.
Swimming at designated beaches: Cypress Bend Recreation Area maintains a renovated beach area perfect for summer swimming, about 15 miles east of Pineland. "The view was great. We were tent camping and were told spot 11 and 10 would be the best for tent camping," reports Will B. who visited Cypress Bend State Rec Area.
What campers like
Spacious, well-maintained sites: Rayburn Park receives high marks for its site layout and maintenance. "The grounds are ALWAYS neatly mowed. The pine needles are always raked and pushed out of the way. The campsites are spread out—my FAVORITE aspect of this park," says Sabrina S. about her experience at Rayburn.
Clean facilities despite remote location: Indian Mounds Recreation Area in Sabine National Forest maintains its facilities well despite being more remote. "This is a nice spot with a reasonable level of development. Campsites have trash and toilet, and leveled out spaces to put a vehicle or tent. Many have installed benches and tables too," shares David S. about Indian Mounds Recreation Area.
Off-season tranquility: Winter camping offers exceptional solitude at many campgrounds. "My friends and family decided to book this place in late January. We say exactly 3 other people for the entire duration of our 3 day stay," reports Elise A. about Rayburn, adding "The sunrise and sunset are some of the best I've seen."
What you should know
Water levels fluctuate seasonally: Sam Rayburn Reservoir water levels can vary significantly, affecting beach access and boat launches. A visitor to Twin Dikes Park notes, "There has clearly been much erosion from rain storms over the years which has not been repaired and a number of camp site have been yellow taped as not usable due to hazardous drop-offs."
Intense insect activity: Mosquitoes are persistent from March through October throughout the Pineland area. "Definitely bring bug spray because there were so many mosquitos near the campground. I left with a few pretty big welts," advises Analia F. about her stay at Brookeland Lake Sam Rayburn KOA.
Wildlife encounters common: Alligators inhabit both reservoirs near Pineland. "Toledo Bend Reservoir is on the Sabine River and has an area of 185,000 acres. Deepest is at 110 feet and they do have alligators," warns a camper at Indian Mounds Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Consider cabins for summer comfort: Martin Dies Jr. State Park offers cabin rentals that provide welcome relief from summer heat. "The campsites are modern, many have a waterfront view. The campsites are well shaded by trees, all have fire pits," notes Vanessa M. about Martin Dies Jr. State Park.
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Several parks near Pineland offer playgrounds and dedicated swimming areas. "There is also a playground within the campground, or at least what we could find," mentions Analia F., adding "We enjoyed hiking in the morning, and then playing in the lake mid morning-afternoon."
Plan for hot weather activities: During summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, water activities become essential. "If you want to escape the hot summer in Texas, I would recommend coming to Brookeland Campground because there is a beautiful lake nearby," shares a visitor who appreciated the cooling water access.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters for big rigs: Many campground sites near Pineland weren't designed for modern RV sizes. "The sites with utilities are paved, and most slope, so need those levelers," advises Debbie J. about Twin Dikes Park at COE Sam Rayburn Reservoir Twin Dikes Park.
Uneven terrain challenges: Back-in sites at some Corps of Engineers parks require careful navigation. "Site 12 was a tricky challenge to get into due to the terrain. First a dip before a narrow entrance over drainage ditch pipe, then a steep grade which almost had us scrapping the asphalt," reports an RVer at Twin Dikes Park.
Full hookup options limited but available: Mid Lake Campground offers reliable full hookup sites for RVers. "Only 3 sites with water view. View was great. Friendly staff. Good store with bait. Good utilities, fire pits well maintained," according to Bruce P.
