Martin Dies Jr. State Park and several other locations near Warren, Texas provide cabin accommodations for visitors to the East Texas Piney Woods region. The area sits at an elevation of approximately 200 feet above sea level within the Big Thicket ecosystem, where mixed pine and hardwood forests create distinct wildlife habitats. Cabin options range from basic shelters to more comfortable accommodations with varying amenities throughout the region.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Several water access points around Sam Rayburn Reservoir and Martin Dies Jr. State Park offer paddling opportunities. At Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the accessible water recreation. "Beautiful park but so many bugs. Did some canoeing, hiking and bird watching. A good park to get away from the city. The landscape is swampy but it was beautiful in its own way," notes one camper.
Fishing: Both day and night fishing attract visitors to area lakes. At Hanks Creek, waterfront campsites provide convenient access. "Our site was waterside so I only had to walk 15 feet to fish! The only downside was the love bug swarming that coated our rig in bug goo on the drive," reports a camper.
Hiking trails: The region features numerous forest trails through pine woodlands. At Village Creek State Park Campground, trails accommodate various experience levels. "About 30 mins to Big Thicket visitors center and hike access. There are several nice hikes in the park but many were closed due to a long-leaf pine reforestation project," explains one visitor.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The Big Thicket ecosystem supports diverse wildlife observation. According to a Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Campground visitor, "The deer walked by every night and the fireflies put on a show." Wildlife sightings frequently include armadillos, raccoons, and numerous bird species.
Scenic water views: Many cabins and sites offer views of lakes or waterways. A camper at Double Lake NF Campground shared, "Deep in the woods and on a nice shallow lake. Fantastic for walks around the lake, playing in the park, and fun trails."
Private spaces: Campsites with adequate separation receive positive mentions. A visitor to Walnut Ridge noted, "Park is spread out nicely. Park hosts around every corner. Great family park." This spacing allows for more privacy compared to more densely arranged campgrounds.
What you should know
Seasonal insect activity: Bug presence varies by season but requires preparation year-round. "Beautiful park but so many bugs... The landscape is swampy but it was beautiful in its own way. A very good campground to see stars at night. It gets pitch black," reports a Martin Dies visitor. Bringing appropriate repellents is essential regardless of season.
Weather considerations: Summer heat and humidity can be intense. A Boomtown USA RV Resort camper mentioned, "Absolutely love the atmosphere... Only downside of expansion is that it is ALOT of concrete with absolutely no shade." Temperatures regularly exceed 90°F during summer months.
Reservation needs: Most cabin facilities require advance booking. A visitor to Hanks Creek recommends planning ahead: "We went online and rented a space for the night. I WISH that I had time to stay longer because it was so beautiful. You just have to have a case of bug spray to fend off the mosquitoes and bugs."
Tips for camping with families
Beach swimming: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas. At Tombigbee Lake, according to one camper, "My kids loved the park and the island that was in the middle of the lake. Kayaked, hiked and fished." Swimming beaches typically have no lifeguards, so parental supervision remains necessary.
Playground access: Multiple sites maintain playground facilities for children. Walnut Ridge provides family-friendly environments with activities for various age groups. Parents often mention appreciating the balance of recreational facilities and natural surroundings.
Site selection tips: For families, site location relative to bathrooms and recreation areas matters. At On The Lake RV Resort, one visitor shared, "Our sites were amazing with gorgeous lake views with sunsets for dayyyys! The on-site restaurant had good cocktails and great food." When booking camping cabins near Warren, Texas, requesting sites near facilities reduces walking distance for children.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Check site sizes when booking for larger rigs. A Village Creek visitor noted, "We spent two nights here. The campground is a nice campground, but I feel the spaces are pretty close together for a state park. No trees or privacy between several of them."
Power requirements: Verify electrical hookup specifications before arrival. A Martin Dies camper mentioned, "Site 301 is pull through with plenty of room for 5Th wheel. Near water and kayak launch." Many camping cabins near Warren offer electrical outlets, but amperage varies between locations.
Weather preparation: East Texas weather can change quickly. A Village Creek camper advised, "Park did have a nice shower house as well as some nice hiking trails and the staff was extremely courteous." Having quick access to shelter during sudden storms provides peace of mind when traveling with RVs.
