The best forest glamping in Lake Palestine

·

Whether you’re fishing for bass and crappie in a quiet wooded cove, watching the sunset from a secluded fishing pier, or exploring the vast expanse of blue waters by boat, kayak, or jet ski—Lake Palestine has everything you need to get on the water. On the western cusp of the Texas Piney Woods and just a 1.5-hour drive from Dallas, this lakeside retreat has five public access marinas and more than a dozen campgrounds, RV parks, and resorts to choose from. Camping is enjoyable year-round, so come in summer to cool off from the Texan sun or in winter for the best fishing. 

99% (412)

Top-rated campgrounds

  Charming Hummingbird Tree house

1. Texas Safari Camp

99%
(115)
54 sites · Tents, Lodging · Kaufman, TX
Welcome to Texas Safari Camp Come escape to a heavily wooded 31 acre pristine wildlife habitat. Only one hour east of Dallas but it feels like another world. At the end of a one lane rock road- this is a very secluded property. It is perfect for tent camping groups and individuals, has a very positive vibe and is more peaceful than most state parks. It adjoins a 950 acre wildlife park with 1200 exotic animals. Many can be seen from the road or you can pay to drive through and feed the animals. Your host is Randall Oliver. He has been organizing group campouts for years and enjoys hosting, bringing people together and inspiring a love of nature, camping and paddling. Everyone is welcome and campers are treated like family. He can teach your kids to kayak and build a camp fire. You can fish for largemouth bass, cat, crappy and bluegill in the two ponds and swim, paddle kayaks and paddle boards, hike the jungle trail and socialize around the campfires. There are no designated campsites. You can camp anywhere except between the green building and the front pond. No vehicles are allowed back on the property. Off road wagons are provided to help haul your gear. Front pond camping areas are 30-100 yards from parking area. The rear pond is more secluded but farther from the parking and outhouse. There are four fire pits around the front pond and one next to the rear pond. The tiny handcrafted Hummingbird Tree House is perched on an elevated deck overlooking the front pond. and features a queen bed, a bed in the loft for two small kids, electricity, lights, fan, hummingbird stained glass windows, screened operable windows and a screened, operable porthole window in the kids loft. The deck has lights, tables and chairs and outdoor table and chairs and a thatch covered umbrella. There is no heat or AC in the tree house. You must bring your own sleeping bags, blankets and pillows. No food, smoking or pets allowed in the tree house. There is a rustic outhouse with a modern composting toilet, sink, faucet, lights, soap, etc. and a nearby cold water outdoor shower (no privacy), sink, counter and faucet. Use of firepit and grill, kayaks and paddleboards, rod & reels, hammocks, swinging chair and tire swing is included. Firewood can be purchased $1 per stick
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Lindale, Coyote Camping/Yurt/Tiny

5. Lindale, Coyote Camping/Yurt/Tiny

100%
(12)
8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Lindale, TX
I4 acres with spring-fed creek, just a few minutes from Lindale restaurants and supplies. For more info about the tiny house or yurt rentals, please inquire. It has extended acreage with multiple ecosystems. I just found a spring and will be doing livestock. There is yurt and tiny house for rent. There is an RV plug, electricity (extra fee), and a water hose. The site is close to downtown Lindale (5 minutes) restaurants and shopping. 15 minutes from tyler. It is country living but still close to city action. The lower parts of the property require 4-wheel drive, but the top has water and electricity, so any car is fine. As this is an outdoor area, there are bugs and critters. I have never had a problem, but this is notice that you agree to assume all liability and responsibility for your party by camping at this property. NEW: Starlink Satellite Internet! Unleased Pets are added fee. If they are in a structure other than your own, they must be in a crate, or we have a fenced dog park area.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$16
 / night
17 acre shared lake

6. Daffodil Hill Homestead

98%
(110)
5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hawkins, TX
Our homestead is a few acres in East Texas, near Hawkins. The land has been untouched for about 30 years, maybe last used for cattle grazing. We're keeping the property as natural as possible, we live here off-grid and off-pipe. There’s a 17 acre lake that we share with neighbors. It’s full of bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish, we encourage catch and keep fishing since the lake could use a little fishing pressure. We also have a beaver pond, and resident beaver. Some of the wildlife we see regularly: fireflies, turtles, cardinals, bluejays, hummingbirds, kite birds, frogs, opossums, armadillos, beaver, river otter, road runners and rabbits. These plants live here too: Beautyberry, Dewberry, Pokeberry, Sparkleberry, Dogfennel, Dogwood, Yaupon Holly, Holly, Wax Myrtle, Sassafras , Lyreleaf Sage, Carolina Crane’s bill, Coral Honeysuckle, Western White Honeysuckle, Smooth Cat’s Ear, Daisy Fleabane, Prairie Onion, Mullein, Summer Grape, Water Lily. The entire water lily plant is edible, did you know? Swim, hang out, cool down on the small swimming dock. Canoe and kayak included! Based on shared availability, we have 1 two person canoe, and 3 kayaks for use on our lake free of charge. There are smaller size adult life jackets and oars/paddles. Bring your own life jackets for kids. Brookshire's in Hawkins less than 4 miles away if you need supplies. LGBTQ+ friendly.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$48
 / night
The Fabulous Bok Vegas, Texas

8. The Fabulous Bok Vegas, Texas

92%
(18)
58 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Palestine, TX
If you're yearning for a day filled with laughter, learning, and heartwarming encounters, the Fabulous Bok Vegas Petting Zoo (open by appointment - under construction), RV Park and Campground is a destination you shouldn't miss. Farm Day Passes are also available. Whether you're a local looking for a peaceful escape or a traveler seeking unique experiences, this charming sanctuary promises an unforgettable adventure. You can enjoy hiking, wildlife, interacting with farm animals at the Fabulous Bok Vegas Interactive Petting Zoo, tours, educational presentations, archery and more. The farm is close to fishing at Lake Palestine, First Monday in Canton and shopping in historical Palestine and Athens town squares. We are a family owned and operated 25-acre farm. We log and mill our own wood for construction projects, so expect to see stacks of limbs here and there as we continue to expand, especially during a burn ban.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$5
 / night
Spiritual Retreat and Cntry Resort

10. Spiritual Retreat and Cntry Resort

100%
(4)
6 sites · Lodging · Quitman, TX
WELCOME TO RAPHA's REST ... a Place of Presence, surrounded by 42 wooded acres w/trails to hike, pray, and explore. Pls note we are only set up for very specific sojourners and may not be the best place for you ... READ HOUSE RULES BEFORE BOOKING. Ie. No Pets, No alcohol or tobacco (incl vaping), etc. for liability reasons. NOTE: Guests must be able to communicate in ENGLISH for the safety of all. We are an interactive property and best experienced when all amenities and boundaries are clearly understood. IF THESE PARAMETERS ARE NOT AN ISSUE, PLEASE READ ON... The Retreat at RAPHA’s REST offers Cabins and Rooms remotely located in the piney woods of E TX, perfect for sojourners seeking REST & RESTORATION, or for small family gatherings or ministry groups. Play w/goats, read a book, roast marshmallows ... a REST-STOP for your continued journey! WORK-OUT ROOM: Complete w/ Weights, TreadClimber, DRY SAUNA, and MASSAGE CHAIR!! BOOKSTORE: Books, gifts, snacks, farm-fresh eggs for sale! Also a full LIBRARY of DVDs to enjoy a movie in your cabin! “CHAPEL IN THE WOODS”: Another quiet space to spend with Papa-God. POOL: Open 8-10pm/ Adult-centered featuring Waterfall, Hot Tub, and Tanning ledge. TOWELS provided, but bring a robe/flip flops for walking back to room/cabin. Be respectful of other guests. NOTE: No music pls -- request Hosts to turn on SPEAKER for RAPHA's REST RADIO. HOT TUB: DUE TO RISING COST OF PROPANE, 1x FREE/Booking … Each addit’l use = $15. [Once temperatures drop below 50 degrees, each use $15]. * NO UNREGISTERED VISITORS (Ask abt Policy). FARMHOUSE BREAKFAST: (Couple $30; Family $12ea /$8 under 8) when Hosts are avail. REQUEST UPON BOOKING. ... served inside Main House or on poolside deck. * When avail, a dozen farm fresh chicken eggs ($5), a doz. quail eggs ($3) or a S'more's Pkg ($10) for firepit can be purchased. INTERNET: Avail on Pool Deck ANIMALS: Cannot accommodate PETS/ EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS. [Certified Service Dogs permitted w/Documentation]. However, we have a virtual ZOO ... 2 LARGE lovable DOGS, 2 CATS, small GOATS and 1 potbelly PIG! Rapha’s Rest was created as a healing PLACE OF PRESENCE ... a PERFECT rest-stop on your continued journey for healing REST and RESTORATION! Blessings, Randy and Cheryl Bland
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$149
 / night
Rustic Trails Texas LLC - Jail

11. Rustic Trails Texas LLC - Jail

1 site · Lodging · Mineola, TX
Come stay in our western replica of a Jail! Just outside of the DFW area is a venue nestled in the Piney Woods of Mineola, Texas is a place called Rustic Trails Texas LLC. Take a trip into the piney woods and spend the weekend in this vintage replica of a western town and stay in one of our five cabins or camp out on the land. The property is filled with beautiful piney woods and other natural foliage deep in the heart of East Texas. You can hear the pines whisper in the breeze and birds singing all around. You can even see deer cross in front of you. East Texas is a growing tourist retreat area with many events and venues to take part in. You can attend First Monday in Canton, view the Wood County Walls wall murals through out Wood County Trails, visit surrounding lakes, visit Miranda Lamberts Miranda Way in Lindale, Old Mill Pond Museum in Lindale, Mineola's Nature Center, Mineola Depot and Railroad Museum, festivals, art, great food, wineries, entertainment, historic theater, antique shops, and so much more!
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$199
 / night

Whether you’re fishing for bass and crappie in a quiet wooded cove, watching the sunset from a secluded fishing pier, or exploring the vast expanse of blue waters by boat, kayak, or jet ski—Lake Palestine has everything you need to get on the water. On the western cusp of the Texas Piney Woods and just a 1.5-hour drive from Dallas, this lakeside retreat has five public access marinas and more than a dozen campgrounds, RV parks, and resorts to choose from. Camping is enjoyable year-round, so come in summer to cool off from the Texan sun or in winter for the best fishing. 

99% (412)

Top-rated campgrounds

  Charming Hummingbird Tree house

1. Texas Safari Camp

99%
(115)
54 sites · Tents, Lodging · Kaufman, TX
Welcome to Texas Safari Camp Come escape to a heavily wooded 31 acre pristine wildlife habitat. Only one hour east of Dallas but it feels like another world. At the end of a one lane rock road- this is a very secluded property. It is perfect for tent camping groups and individuals, has a very positive vibe and is more peaceful than most state parks. It adjoins a 950 acre wildlife park with 1200 exotic animals. Many can be seen from the road or you can pay to drive through and feed the animals. Your host is Randall Oliver. He has been organizing group campouts for years and enjoys hosting, bringing people together and inspiring a love of nature, camping and paddling. Everyone is welcome and campers are treated like family. He can teach your kids to kayak and build a camp fire. You can fish for largemouth bass, cat, crappy and bluegill in the two ponds and swim, paddle kayaks and paddle boards, hike the jungle trail and socialize around the campfires. There are no designated campsites. You can camp anywhere except between the green building and the front pond. No vehicles are allowed back on the property. Off road wagons are provided to help haul your gear. Front pond camping areas are 30-100 yards from parking area. The rear pond is more secluded but farther from the parking and outhouse. There are four fire pits around the front pond and one next to the rear pond. The tiny handcrafted Hummingbird Tree House is perched on an elevated deck overlooking the front pond. and features a queen bed, a bed in the loft for two small kids, electricity, lights, fan, hummingbird stained glass windows, screened operable windows and a screened, operable porthole window in the kids loft. The deck has lights, tables and chairs and outdoor table and chairs and a thatch covered umbrella. There is no heat or AC in the tree house. You must bring your own sleeping bags, blankets and pillows. No food, smoking or pets allowed in the tree house. There is a rustic outhouse with a modern composting toilet, sink, faucet, lights, soap, etc. and a nearby cold water outdoor shower (no privacy), sink, counter and faucet. Use of firepit and grill, kayaks and paddleboards, rod & reels, hammocks, swinging chair and tire swing is included. Firewood can be purchased $1 per stick
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Lindale, Coyote Camping/Yurt/Tiny

5. Lindale, Coyote Camping/Yurt/Tiny

100%
(12)
8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Lindale, TX
I4 acres with spring-fed creek, just a few minutes from Lindale restaurants and supplies. For more info about the tiny house or yurt rentals, please inquire. It has extended acreage with multiple ecosystems. I just found a spring and will be doing livestock. There is yurt and tiny house for rent. There is an RV plug, electricity (extra fee), and a water hose. The site is close to downtown Lindale (5 minutes) restaurants and shopping. 15 minutes from tyler. It is country living but still close to city action. The lower parts of the property require 4-wheel drive, but the top has water and electricity, so any car is fine. As this is an outdoor area, there are bugs and critters. I have never had a problem, but this is notice that you agree to assume all liability and responsibility for your party by camping at this property. NEW: Starlink Satellite Internet! Unleased Pets are added fee. If they are in a structure other than your own, they must be in a crate, or we have a fenced dog park area.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$16
 / night
17 acre shared lake

6. Daffodil Hill Homestead

98%
(110)
5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hawkins, TX
Our homestead is a few acres in East Texas, near Hawkins. The land has been untouched for about 30 years, maybe last used for cattle grazing. We're keeping the property as natural as possible, we live here off-grid and off-pipe. There’s a 17 acre lake that we share with neighbors. It’s full of bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish, we encourage catch and keep fishing since the lake could use a little fishing pressure. We also have a beaver pond, and resident beaver. Some of the wildlife we see regularly: fireflies, turtles, cardinals, bluejays, hummingbirds, kite birds, frogs, opossums, armadillos, beaver, river otter, road runners and rabbits. These plants live here too: Beautyberry, Dewberry, Pokeberry, Sparkleberry, Dogfennel, Dogwood, Yaupon Holly, Holly, Wax Myrtle, Sassafras , Lyreleaf Sage, Carolina Crane’s bill, Coral Honeysuckle, Western White Honeysuckle, Smooth Cat’s Ear, Daisy Fleabane, Prairie Onion, Mullein, Summer Grape, Water Lily. The entire water lily plant is edible, did you know? Swim, hang out, cool down on the small swimming dock. Canoe and kayak included! Based on shared availability, we have 1 two person canoe, and 3 kayaks for use on our lake free of charge. There are smaller size adult life jackets and oars/paddles. Bring your own life jackets for kids. Brookshire's in Hawkins less than 4 miles away if you need supplies. LGBTQ+ friendly.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$48
 / night
The Fabulous Bok Vegas, Texas

8. The Fabulous Bok Vegas, Texas

92%
(18)
58 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Palestine, TX
If you're yearning for a day filled with laughter, learning, and heartwarming encounters, the Fabulous Bok Vegas Petting Zoo (open by appointment - under construction), RV Park and Campground is a destination you shouldn't miss. Farm Day Passes are also available. Whether you're a local looking for a peaceful escape or a traveler seeking unique experiences, this charming sanctuary promises an unforgettable adventure. You can enjoy hiking, wildlife, interacting with farm animals at the Fabulous Bok Vegas Interactive Petting Zoo, tours, educational presentations, archery and more. The farm is close to fishing at Lake Palestine, First Monday in Canton and shopping in historical Palestine and Athens town squares. We are a family owned and operated 25-acre farm. We log and mill our own wood for construction projects, so expect to see stacks of limbs here and there as we continue to expand, especially during a burn ban.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$5
 / night
Spiritual Retreat and Cntry Resort

10. Spiritual Retreat and Cntry Resort

100%
(4)
6 sites · Lodging · Quitman, TX
WELCOME TO RAPHA's REST ... a Place of Presence, surrounded by 42 wooded acres w/trails to hike, pray, and explore. Pls note we are only set up for very specific sojourners and may not be the best place for you ... READ HOUSE RULES BEFORE BOOKING. Ie. No Pets, No alcohol or tobacco (incl vaping), etc. for liability reasons. NOTE: Guests must be able to communicate in ENGLISH for the safety of all. We are an interactive property and best experienced when all amenities and boundaries are clearly understood. IF THESE PARAMETERS ARE NOT AN ISSUE, PLEASE READ ON... The Retreat at RAPHA’s REST offers Cabins and Rooms remotely located in the piney woods of E TX, perfect for sojourners seeking REST & RESTORATION, or for small family gatherings or ministry groups. Play w/goats, read a book, roast marshmallows ... a REST-STOP for your continued journey! WORK-OUT ROOM: Complete w/ Weights, TreadClimber, DRY SAUNA, and MASSAGE CHAIR!! BOOKSTORE: Books, gifts, snacks, farm-fresh eggs for sale! Also a full LIBRARY of DVDs to enjoy a movie in your cabin! “CHAPEL IN THE WOODS”: Another quiet space to spend with Papa-God. POOL: Open 8-10pm/ Adult-centered featuring Waterfall, Hot Tub, and Tanning ledge. TOWELS provided, but bring a robe/flip flops for walking back to room/cabin. Be respectful of other guests. NOTE: No music pls -- request Hosts to turn on SPEAKER for RAPHA's REST RADIO. HOT TUB: DUE TO RISING COST OF PROPANE, 1x FREE/Booking … Each addit’l use = $15. [Once temperatures drop below 50 degrees, each use $15]. * NO UNREGISTERED VISITORS (Ask abt Policy). FARMHOUSE BREAKFAST: (Couple $30; Family $12ea /$8 under 8) when Hosts are avail. REQUEST UPON BOOKING. ... served inside Main House or on poolside deck. * When avail, a dozen farm fresh chicken eggs ($5), a doz. quail eggs ($3) or a S'more's Pkg ($10) for firepit can be purchased. INTERNET: Avail on Pool Deck ANIMALS: Cannot accommodate PETS/ EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS. [Certified Service Dogs permitted w/Documentation]. However, we have a virtual ZOO ... 2 LARGE lovable DOGS, 2 CATS, small GOATS and 1 potbelly PIG! Rapha’s Rest was created as a healing PLACE OF PRESENCE ... a PERFECT rest-stop on your continued journey for healing REST and RESTORATION! Blessings, Randy and Cheryl Bland
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$149
 / night
Rustic Trails Texas LLC - Jail

11. Rustic Trails Texas LLC - Jail

1 site · Lodging · Mineola, TX
Come stay in our western replica of a Jail! Just outside of the DFW area is a venue nestled in the Piney Woods of Mineola, Texas is a place called Rustic Trails Texas LLC. Take a trip into the piney woods and spend the weekend in this vintage replica of a western town and stay in one of our five cabins or camp out on the land. The property is filled with beautiful piney woods and other natural foliage deep in the heart of East Texas. You can hear the pines whisper in the breeze and birds singing all around. You can even see deer cross in front of you. East Texas is a growing tourist retreat area with many events and venues to take part in. You can attend First Monday in Canton, view the Wood County Walls wall murals through out Wood County Trails, visit surrounding lakes, visit Miranda Lamberts Miranda Way in Lindale, Old Mill Pond Museum in Lindale, Mineola's Nature Center, Mineola Depot and Railroad Museum, festivals, art, great food, wineries, entertainment, historic theater, antique shops, and so much more!
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$199
 / night

Camper favorites in and near Lake Palestine

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best forest glamping in Lake Palestine guide

Where to go

North Shore

The small town of Chandler is the gateway to Lake Palestine’s north shore, where you can paddle or fish along the Neches River. There’s a small boat ramp at Chandler River Park, but for larger boats, you’ll need to head to Westberry Landing or Kickapoo. As for camping, you’ll find at least three RV parks close to the north shore, with full hookups available.

West Shore

Boat launches, marinas, and campgrounds pepper the lake’s west shore, where popular activities include kayaking, jet skiing, and water skiing. Take your pick of tent and RV campsites, some with direct access to the lake, or dine with a lake view at a shoreside restaurant. 

South Shore

The scenic southern shore of Lake Palestine curls around Blackburn Bay, a popular spot for houseboaters and fishing. Camping options are limited around these parts, so rent a lakefront cabin instead or anchor your boat in a secluded cove. 

East Shore

Glorious lake views, family-friendly RV resorts, and plenty of lake activities can be found along the east shore. Snag a lakeside campsite around lively Sabine Bay, play a game of golf at the Emerald Bay or Eagle’s Bluff country clubs, or launch your boat from the Village Marina, where you’ll also find a water park and kayak rentals.

Popular Lake Palestine glamping styles