Bell tents near Crosby with fishing

Urban campers seeking outdoor adventures should consider making Crosby their basecamp. Less than a half-hour from downtown Houston, this suburban town is hemmed in by lakes, woodlands, and wetlands. Looking for nature walks and leisurely bike rides? Explore the Newport Park & Trails or head to Dwight D. Eisenhower Park for views across Lake Houston. Prefer your activities with a shot of adrenaline? Zip around miles of ATV trails at the Xtreme Off-Road Park, then splash down the waterslides into the San Jacinto River. There’s a choice of RV parks in town, as well as beachside camping along the river.

Around Lake Houston 

North of Crosby, the 160,000-acre Lake Houston is teeming with bass and crappie, and you can find quiet fishing spots along the shore or BYOB (bring your own boat) to cruise the lake. On the north shore, the Lake Houston Wilderness Park has trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, as well as backcountry camping.

Far North Houston

Further north from Lake Houston, the Sam Houston National Forest is an all-natural playground with miles of forest trails, woodland walks, and tranquil camping spots. Ardent hikers can set out along the 128-mile Lone Star Hiking Trail, but there are also plenty of shorter trails, many accessible for bikes, OHV, and horses. The forest is bounded by two lakes—Lake Conroe and Lake Livingston—where you can also swim, fish, and enjoy water sports.  

Gulf Coast

The San Jacinto River winds its way south all the way to the Gulf Coast, where the coastal wetlands and beaches afford some of the best birding in Texas. RV parks dot the shores of Trinity Bay, but for beach camping, head south to Galveston Island State Park. Work up an appetite kayaking around the wetlands, then catch some fish shoreside to cook up around the campfire.  

Camping is a year-round pastime in Crosby but the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities in spring and fall. Summers are hot and humid (expect daily averages of 94°F), so choose a camping ground close to the water or cool off along the Gulf Coast. Forest walks are almost magical in autumn with their rainbow of fall foliage. 

• There are no public transport links to Houston, so you’ll need your own transportation to get to and around Crosby. 
• Crosby has a selection of shops where you can purchase groceries, camping gear, and fishing supplies. Pick up everything you need in town before heading out to the lakes or riverside.
• Most Texas State Parks require reservations for both day passes and campgrounds, and fishing permits are often required.