SAM HOUSTON (Houston/Conroe/Huntsville Area)

Haha! We stayed at Kelly's Pond dispersed camping. Thought wow we found paradise. It was beautiful, then dusk fell, thought nothing of the Coyotes in the background noise. The first night, Coyotes in the distance, and a cat being attacked outside of us sleeping. Second night, Coyotes in background. Third night. Coyotes in background noise until 3 am. Then they were 50 yrs from us. Thank God they are scared of crazy people screaming at them. We packed the next day.. headed to Dallas area.

Campgrounds have a variety of amenities to choose from, including screened shelters, which are great if you get caught in a Texas sized downpour or if the mosquitoes are particularly aggressive, a pond with optional row boat rentals, and swimming spot. There isn't much variation in the trail terrain, though they may cross a stream here and there and have a good deal of tree cover from that hot TX sun. Overall, a great spot that is not too far out of the city to make a nice weekend getaway in the forest.