Tent campsites near San Augustine, Texas offer convenient access to the Angelina National Forest ecosystem with significant pine stands and bayou waterways. Sites typically sit between 200-350 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain for camping. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, making adequate shade and water storage essential considerations for tent campers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bouton Lake Campground provides direct access to a small pond suitable for casual fishing. While primarily known for bass fishing, the small size limits catch expectations. "It was on a small pretty pond," notes one camper who visited the lake.
Trail exploration: Primitive hiking trails wind through several camping areas near San Augustine. Campers at Angelina (Sam Rayburn Reservoir Area) report accessible trails suitable for family walks. A visitor mentioned, "Roads are paved, kids can roam, lots of trails and some playgrounds."
Kayaking: Sam Rayburn Reservoir provides paddling opportunities within a short drive from most tent campsites. The reservoir offers relatively calm waters suitable for beginning kayakers. One camper shared their experience: "The lake was fun to kayak on. It was raining so not many people were there."
What campers like
Solitude during weekdays: The tent camping areas around San Augustine remain relatively uncrowded, particularly on non-holiday weekdays. At Alazan Bayou, campers appreciate the well-maintained yet uncrowded sites. One reviewer described it as having "At least 14 sites with picnic tables on concrete slabs. Fire rings and Lantern poles. Very well kept and mowed."
Wildlife viewing: The mixed pine forest and water features attract diverse wildlife. Morning and evening hours provide the best opportunities for bird watching and spotting small mammals. Visitors should be prepared for abundant insects, as one camper at Angelina noted: "Spiders galore here, fair warning."
Natural spacing: Campgrounds like Bouton Lake feature naturally spaced sites that provide privacy without complete isolation. A camper described the layout as having "open field, large pines" with "room for more parking w/o tables," allowing flexibility in choosing your site location based on preferred privacy levels.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Most tent campsites near San Augustine require specific permits that fund conservation efforts. For Alazan Bayou, a reviewer explained: "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."
Limited amenities: Campers Cove and other tent sites in the area provide minimal facilities. Most lack running water, permanent restrooms, and trash service. Tent campers should bring adequate water supplies, portable sanitation equipment, and pack-out bags for waste.
Access roads: Some tent camping areas require driving on unpaved roads that can become difficult after rain. A visitor to Bouton Lake described the approach: "It was a bit of a drive on a dirt road but the road wasn't too bad."
Tips for camping with families
Best season selection: Spring and fall provide more comfortable temperatures for family camping in East Texas. A visitor to Bouton Lake noted summer challenges: "It was July when I was there so it was pretty uncomfortable as far as temperature and it started to rain."
Playground access: Harvey Creek Park and similar recreation areas include basic playgrounds suitable for younger children within a short walk of tent sites. These facilities provide activity options when not exploring trails or waterways.
Wildlife preparation: Families should prepare children for encountering insects and small wildlife during their stay. Proper food storage, insect repellent, and basic wildlife education enhance the experience. One camper at Angelina mentioned that despite rain limiting visitors, the area had abundant spiders that parents should be aware of.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most tent campsites near San Augustine have restrictions preventing larger RVs from accessing camping areas. Decker Hill Park and other locations work best for tent campers or small pop-up campers rather than large rigs.
Group arrangements: For mixed groups with both tent campers and RVs, planning is essential. A visitor to Angelina noted their successful arrangement: "Came here with a big group of family. They were in an RV, I stayed in a tent."
Shade considerations: When setting up at tent sites, position canopies and tents to maximize morning shade. The intense East Texas sun can make tent interiors uncomfortable by mid-morning without proper placement under the pine canopy common to the region.
