The best campgrounds near Nacogdoches, Texas with wildlife watching

Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking for an unforgettable camping experience near Nacogdoches, Texas, with a focus on wildlife watching, you've come to the right place. We offer over 570 options specifically tailored to your preference for wildlife watching in this area. Whether you're interested in pitching a tent at Sandy Ridge Camping, staying at The Morris Manor and Retreat, or exploring Music Springs, our top campsites with rave reviews (216, 122, and 101 reviews respectively), you'll find the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature. With popular amenities such as campfires, pet-friendly sites, and toilets, and activities like whitewater paddling, wildlife watching, and biking, you're sure to have a fantastic time. Average prices per night start at $35, with options as low as $10. Happy camping!

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Top-rated campgrounds near Nacogdoches

Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking for an unforgettable camping experience near Nacogdoches, Texas, with a focus on wildlife watching, you've come to the right place. We offer over 570 options specifically tailored to your preference for wildlife watching in this area. Whether you're interested in pitching a tent at Sandy Ridge Camping, staying at The Morris Manor and Retreat, or exploring Music Springs, our top campsites with rave reviews (216, 122, and 101 reviews respectively), you'll find the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature. With popular amenities such as campfires, pet-friendly sites, and toilets, and activities like whitewater paddling, wildlife watching, and biking, you're sure to have a fantastic time. Average prices per night start at $35, with options as low as $10. Happy camping!

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Top-rated campgrounds near Nacogdoches

1. The Rock Pit

100%

(17)

50mi from Nacogdoches · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: The Rock Pit is a 5 acre swimming hole located in Trinity County that has been there over 50 years. Long ago they had dug out an area on a hill for rock on the dirt roads, and hit and underground water table. There are no fish in the Rock Pit, as the pH is 4.5, so no fish will live in it. I recall swimming there as a small boy, and wanted to share my memories with others. Depth ranges all over, but the deep end is around 15 feet. I have 5 kayaks currently, but bring yours if you have them, along with your vests. There is fishing in Lake Livingston, my place is north of it. There is access to Lake Livingston via White Rock Creek. A public boat ramp in on Highway 94, just outside Trinity. Or you can go back towards Trinity, to highway 357 and go to a ramp closer to the big lake. Tall pine tress, a few Oaks, and maple trees surround the place. Bring your mosquito repellant, as you are in the country! The place is raw right now, but I am planning improvements such as a few A frame cabins, a showering area and so on. So many things to do! Video from Hipcamper Don https://youtu.be/DDIqHiGwSjE Please give him a thumbs up and share!

2. M Rockin C Ranch

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(7)

44mi from Nacogdoches · 21 sites · Tents, RVs

M-Rockin-C Ranch, owned and operated by retired US veteran, is raising egg laying chickens, pastured boiler chickens, goats (Nigerian Dwarfs, Pygmy and a Nigerian-Pygmy cross), rabbits (California - meat/pets) and also have grass-fed beef (Brangus, Angus and F1 Hybrids). We have expanded our rabbitry soon to include Rex and Harlequin breeds as well. The drought of 2022 and 2023 caused us to have to cut fencing which we are still working to repair in order to bring back our heritage hogs. Turkeys are raised only when pre-paid by customers. We are currently working to get bees again for local harvested honey in Houston County, Texas. All my poultry and livestock are free ranged and live on pasture supplemented with non-GMO feeds using no antibiotics or hormones. My goal is growing all the livestock in an environment outside where they can live normal lives eating bugs and grass, enjoying the sun and rain and through holistic management creating more sustainable pastureland for the future. Our main rule is please enjoy observing the ranch life but do not harass the animals. We live in the country please do not be too loud or cross outside of our ranch boundaries. My neighbors have lived here or moved here for their own peace and solitude as well... be respectful of that and enjoy your stay in the country. The ranch is located in the Piney Woods of eastern Texas and consists of 95.26 acres mostly in open grazing land with dispersed pine and oak trees in small groupings and along the fence lines. The ranch has a nearly a 1/4-acre upper pond and an elongated narrower lake that is close to 1 and a 1/2-acre below the upper pond to the west. There is a fenced in just over 1/2 acre area just north of the upper pond. The ponds gain water from natural spring flow and rainwater. Cook Creek runs through the entrance area off of FM 2022 on the northwest side of the property. The creek is year-round but normally is only a few inches deep but does have a few deeper pools of water. The ranch has about 65+ acres of gentle rolling hills of open pasture. The pastures consist of bahia, maxio and angusta ryegrasses, with mostly coastal grasses with some red and white clover mixed with natives. The ranch also has a diverse group of wildlife including but not limited to coyotes, white tail deer, roadrunners, racoons, possums, wild pigs and hawks of different species. We have spotted a golden eagle on the ranch within the last few months. We have a couple juvenile bald eagles on the north-northwest side of the property. Our large great blue heron is back from his migration south. Several kingfishers are nesting near the large lake. Several other migratory birds and waterfowl also traverse the ranch during their travels north and south through the area. The night sky is amazing! If nothing else brings you here. You must come enjoy the view of the milky way and thousands of stars visible in our south-east Texas night sky. Photos of the night sky have been added to the listing... do not miss them! I really enjoy just leaning back in a zero-gravity chair and getting to view the sky when not looking through my 8in Meade Coma-Free Smith-Cassegrain telescope. I often have the scope setup and visitors are more than welcome to come view the wonders that our night sky has to offer on most clear nights. Bring a fishing pole to see if you have any luck catching a bream, sunfish, small mouth or largemouth bass. We do have turtles as well. The biggest and meanest is the alligator snapping turtles best to just cut the line than try to take your hook or lure back from these guys.

3. Cashrock Farm and RV

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27mi from Nacogdoches · 9 sites · RVs

Cashrock Farm and RV Park features an extremely quiet and well maintained “mini-mansion” two bedroom cottage and RV parking spots on 55 acres with pine and oak trees sprinkled about, hay fields, two ponds and plenty of room for parking, walking, biking and horses. Cashrock is located approximately 8 miles from two towns, Lufkin and Diboll Texas, 7 miles frm Angelina Community College, close to nearby Nacogdoches (the oldest town in Texas) and only 1 1/2 to two hours from Houston or Galveston, NASA and the Gulf of Mexico (to the south) or Tyler and Longview (to the north). If you like bass fishing, Cashrock is only 20 minutes from the Lake Sam Rayburn Resevoir. With over 55 acres to roam and explore, abundant parking space accomodates a wide variety of event attendance.Events such as Weddings, Large picnics, corporate getaways, retreats or celebrations could be hosted “on the farm,” for an additional fee. The spaces can easily accommodate gatherings of 25 or more attendees. It’s a great venue for wedding and event photography sessions, too!

4. Mission Tejas State Park

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(3)

17 sites · Alto, Texas

Explore the pineywoods of East Texas and a replica of Mission Tejas.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

5. Angelina National Forest

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26 sites · Broaddus, Texas

Camp among the angels at this heavenly national forest in Texas.

6. Remote, Peaceful Camp- Boones' Farm

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(1)

26mi from Nacogdoches · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Boones’ Farm- a quaint and quiet six acre piece of paradise in the middle of nowhere, perfect for the camping enthusiast trying to get away and enjoy the nighttime stars. Pond on site allows for fishing and you are sure to find and hear plenty of wildlife during your stay. Pitch a tent and enjoy the great outdoors! You will travel down a winding dirt road through the “neighborhood” to get to the property.

7. Bigfoot Kingtown RV Park

16mi from Nacogdoches · 31 sites · RVs

Welcome to Kingtown RV Park, where convenience meets comfort in the heart of Nacogdoches! Conveniently located at the Kingtown boat ramp for direct access to the Angelina River and Lake Sam Rayburn. Our park offers a serene and welcoming environment for RV enthusiasts and travelers alike. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-packed getaway, Kingtown RV Park is the perfect spot for you. The ease of access to the water, and beautiful surroundings will ensure an unforgettable stay.

8. Salmon Lake Park

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(17)

50mi from Nacogdoches · 51 sites

Nestled in the piney woods of East TX lies a 115 acre hidden gem with spring fed swimming lake, old west town,  w/ restrooms, hot showers, sand volleyball, 9 square, gaga ball, and playgrounds.With over 200 RV sites, 22 Cabins, Tent Sites and 5 meeting Halls... We can host your event large or small. We offer a wide range of accommodations and event centers for groups of 20 to 300 + people. Many of our buildings are over 100 years old, each one having a story rich with history and tales from days gone by.Contact us and see how we can help you make memories that will last generations.Learn more about this land:Nestled in the piney woods of East TX lies a hidden gem with spring fed swimming lake w/ restrooms, hot showers, sand volleyball, 9 square, gaga ball, playground, old buildings, trails, etc. Tent camp in designated spots under the trees or in open field under the stars. We have spots with water and electricity or dry primitive camping.

9. Carthage RV Campground

43mi from Nacogdoches · 43 sites

Discover the unique charm of Carthage RV Campground, where big rigs and rally groups are warmly welcomed. Our campground features 64 paved full hookup sites designed specifically for larger RVs, including 59 extra-long pull-thru sites measuring 35 x 65 feet and 5 back-in sites at 27 x 60 feet. Each site is equipped with 30/50 amp electric service, with some offering 100 amp options. For those seeking a premium experience, we have select sites available. All guests can enjoy complimentary WiFi and cable TV during their stay. Carthage RV Campground boasts well-maintained paved roads and concrete sites, ensuring a comfortable environment for all visitors. In addition to RV accommodations, we offer rustic cabin rentals and welcome tent campers. Don’t forget to bring your furry friends along to enjoy our dedicated dog park. Our on-site convenience store is stocked with essential RV supplies, propane, and other necessities. For recreation, guests can take advantage of our fishing pond, spacious clubhouse, horseshoe pit, and inviting campfire area. With a variety of outdoor activities nearby, including natural attractions, swimming holes, and local dining options, Carthage RV Campground is the perfect destination for your next adventure.

10. Martin Creek Lake State Park

92 sites · Tatum, Texas

Spend your days fishing, bird watching and hiking at this calm, chilled-out lakeside park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. Sabine National Forest

113 sites · Milam, Texas

This gigantic natural preserve in East Texas is a fishing and hunting paradise.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

12. The Good Life RV Park

28mi from Nacogdoches · 11 sites

The Good Life RV Park stands out as a brand new destination for RV enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of comfort and convenience with its 50 full hook-up, pet-friendly RV sites available for daily, weekly, and monthly stays. This park is designed to provide an exceptional experience, featuring amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the grounds, a coin-operated laundry facility, and a newly constructed dog park for your furry friends. Nestled in the heart of East Texas, just 6 miles south of Lufkin, The Good Life RV Park is ideally situated near a variety of restaurants, shopping options, and a wealth of outdoor activities. Guests can explore the nearby Sam Rayburn Reservoir, a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts, where you can catch large mouth bass, crappie, and catfish year-round. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, The Good Life RV Park is the perfect base for your East Texas getaway.

Camper favorites near Nacogdoches

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Remote, Peaceful Camp- Boones' Farm

100%

(1)

26mi from Nacogdoches · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Boones’ Farm- a quaint and quiet six acre piece of paradise in the middle of nowhere, perfect for the camping enthusiast trying to get away and enjoy the nighttime stars. Pond on site allows for fishing and you are sure to find and hear plenty of wildlife during your stay. Pitch a tent and enjoy the great outdoors! You will travel down a winding dirt road through the “neighborhood” to get to the property.

Bigfoot Kingtown RV Park

16mi from Nacogdoches · 31 sites · RVs

Welcome to Kingtown RV Park, where convenience meets comfort in the heart of Nacogdoches! Conveniently located at the Kingtown boat ramp for direct access to the Angelina River and Lake Sam Rayburn. Our park offers a serene and welcoming environment for RV enthusiasts and travelers alike. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-packed getaway, Kingtown RV Park is the perfect spot for you. The ease of access to the water, and beautiful surroundings will ensure an unforgettable stay.

Salmon Lake Park

94%

(17)

50mi from Nacogdoches · 51 sites

Nestled in the piney woods of East TX lies a 115 acre hidden gem with spring fed swimming lake, old west town,  w/ restrooms, hot showers, sand volleyball, 9 square, gaga ball, and playgrounds.With over 200 RV sites, 22 Cabins, Tent Sites and 5 meeting Halls... We can host your event large or small. We offer a wide range of accommodations and event centers for groups of 20 to 300 + people. Many of our buildings are over 100 years old, each one having a story rich with history and tales from days gone by.Contact us and see how we can help you make memories that will last generations.Learn more about this land:Nestled in the piney woods of East TX lies a hidden gem with spring fed swimming lake w/ restrooms, hot showers, sand volleyball, 9 square, gaga ball, playground, old buildings, trails, etc. Tent camp in designated spots under the trees or in open field under the stars. We have spots with water and electricity or dry primitive camping.

Carthage RV Campground

43mi from Nacogdoches · 43 sites

Discover the unique charm of Carthage RV Campground, where big rigs and rally groups are warmly welcomed. Our campground features 64 paved full hookup sites designed specifically for larger RVs, including 59 extra-long pull-thru sites measuring 35 x 65 feet and 5 back-in sites at 27 x 60 feet. Each site is equipped with 30/50 amp electric service, with some offering 100 amp options. For those seeking a premium experience, we have select sites available. All guests can enjoy complimentary WiFi and cable TV during their stay. Carthage RV Campground boasts well-maintained paved roads and concrete sites, ensuring a comfortable environment for all visitors. In addition to RV accommodations, we offer rustic cabin rentals and welcome tent campers. Don’t forget to bring your furry friends along to enjoy our dedicated dog park. Our on-site convenience store is stocked with essential RV supplies, propane, and other necessities. For recreation, guests can take advantage of our fishing pond, spacious clubhouse, horseshoe pit, and inviting campfire area. With a variety of outdoor activities nearby, including natural attractions, swimming holes, and local dining options, Carthage RV Campground is the perfect destination for your next adventure.

The Good Life RV Park

28mi from Nacogdoches · 11 sites

The Good Life RV Park stands out as a brand new destination for RV enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of comfort and convenience with its 50 full hook-up, pet-friendly RV sites available for daily, weekly, and monthly stays. This park is designed to provide an exceptional experience, featuring amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the grounds, a coin-operated laundry facility, and a newly constructed dog park for your furry friends. Nestled in the heart of East Texas, just 6 miles south of Lufkin, The Good Life RV Park is ideally situated near a variety of restaurants, shopping options, and a wealth of outdoor activities. Guests can explore the nearby Sam Rayburn Reservoir, a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts, where you can catch large mouth bass, crappie, and catfish year-round. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, The Good Life RV Park is the perfect base for your East Texas getaway.

Public campgrounds near Nacogdoches

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Mission Tejas Campground

35mi from Nacogdoches · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mission Tejas State Park

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Caney Creek Campground

40mi from Nacogdoches · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angelina National Forest

Martin Creek Lake Campground

46mi from Nacogdoches · 92 sites · Tents, RVs · in Martin Creek Lake State Park

Ragtown Campground

49mi from Nacogdoches · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sabine National Forest

Red Hills Lake Campground

49mi from Nacogdoches · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sabine National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

L

Larry

2 weeks ago

20 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to The Rock Pit

Nice place and owner showed alot of hospitality. A little tricky with the mud after alot of rain but worth it.

Mike

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Rock Pit

Awesome location! Perfect for two 10 year old boys to run around and explore! Lake is beautiful, camping spots were very nice. Loved it!

S

Savhanna

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to M Rockin C Ranch

Loved camping here was a ton of places to pick from to set up camp which was great. Loved seeing the cows every morning walking through camp.

H

Heather

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to M Rockin C Ranch

Heath and his place were amazing! Heath communicated with us before our arrival so we would know exactly what to expect. He checked in on us during our stay, and even gave us a tour when he was feeding the animals. His ranch was peaceful and beautiful. We would definitely visit again!

DON

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Rock Pit

This is one of my favorite spots to visit! Always peaceful and plenty of trails to explore!

Fenced 1/2 acre compound just north of upper pond. Fresh potable well water now available. One of the more permanent composting toilets (outhouses) located at this location. Outdoor shower avaialble. Liimited 20amp service available.

C

Christina

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to M Rockin C Ranch

We loved camping on Heath's land! The views were amazing and the field was wide open to view the stars at night! Heath was most informative and welcoming. The cows graze in the field we camped on and came close as they were curious but nothing that wasn't expected. This is a very peaceful place and not far from the nearest city. We will be back to enjoy this beautiful place!

L

Lauryn

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Rock Pit

Absolutely loved Richard’s spot. The water is incredibly refreshing and he showed us the perfect spot to be in the shade which was much needed. By the water is a crazy echo which felt surreal.

B

Brandon

September 2025

8 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Rock Pit

The place was nice. No road noise and lots of stars at night. Lots of walk in tent sites on the water but also drive up sites to setup.

J

Joe

June 2025

16 ft pop-up camper

With kids

6 nights at The Rock Pit

I thoroughly enjoyed camping at The Rock Pit! My sons and I enjoy off grid camping and The Rock Pit fit the bill. Richard is an amazing host and a pleasure to work with. The lake is literally just a few steps away with kayaking available! Richard had the place mowed and ready for us when we arrived. The Rock Pit is situated where we still had access to places like national forest. I just can’t say enough about this property. We will most definitely visit again!

Jess

June 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Rock Pit

I had the whole property to myself. The best part was floating out in the water knowing that you can take a a nap and nothing can bother you. Richard's land is pure peace. He was very respectful, he even down the area where I wanted to camp so that its fresh. I will definitely go back knowing that its only an hour and some mins from the city (houston). This is the perfect getaway spot if you know how to primitive camp. I also realized there are little to no mosquitoes out there as well but still bring your repellent. I saw 2 bucks while hiking and few rabbits but nothing out the ordinary. Stargazing at night was the best as well, it was such a beautiful sight! Richard also offers kayaks for us you use, take advantage of that. I will be back soon.

B

Bri

April 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Rock Pit

Beautiful camp spot, had the whole area to ourselves.

Tons of open space to choose from. This was only one of the areas to choose from.

M

Michael

April 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Remote, Peaceful Camp- Boones' Farm

This location is absolutely stunning. While the grass can be a bit long in certain areas, it’s a small detail that shouldn’t keep you from visiting. The property is tucked away, so you’ll spend a bit of time on a dirt road but it’s well worth it for the peaceful, quiet nights and clear skies. The host was incredibly responsive and answered all of my questions.

B

Brett

March 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Rock Pit

This place is fantastic. Being able to camp off the water is a relaxing escape from city life.

M

Mary

February 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

2 nights at M Rockin C Ranch

What a beautiful ranch! We loved the openess of the land, and the animals. The horses actually came right up to our camp. It took awhile to coax them to eat out of our hands, but they finally did. Beautiful.animals. Heath is a great host.

D

Drew

February 2025

16 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to The Rock Pit

Awesome experience. We had the whole lake to ourselves. Beautiful hiking wonderful nature and beautiful crystal clear water.

T

Thiago

December 2024

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Rock Pit

Amazing place! Rick is super nice, will definitely come back with the family.

DON

December 2024

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Rock Pit

Richard was kind, knowledgeable and very accommodating for our stay! It was a rainy weekend and chilly! We had a blast exploring the trails in the area and can’t wait to come back!!