The best river, stream, or creek RV campgrounds in Sam Rayburn Reservoir

Of all 7,000-plus lakes in the Lone Star State, Sam Rayburn Reservoir is the largest that lies entirely within Texan borders. Proving that everything really is bigger in Texas, this gigantic lake has 114,5000 acres of water to swim, sail, fish, paddle, or get your adrenaline fix with high-octane water sports; all hemmed in by three sprawling national forests at the heart of the Piney Woods. Along with endless opportunities for boating and fishing—Sam Rayburn Lake is prized for its largemouth bass—there’s a wide choice of campgrounds and cabins, many of which stay open year-round.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Of all 7,000-plus lakes in the Lone Star State, Sam Rayburn Reservoir is the largest that lies entirely within Texan borders. Proving that everything really is bigger in Texas, this gigantic lake has 114,5000 acres of water to swim, sail, fish, paddle, or get your adrenaline fix with high-octane water sports; all hemmed in by three sprawling national forests at the heart of the Piney Woods. Along with endless opportunities for boating and fishing—Sam Rayburn Lake is prized for its largemouth bass—there’s a wide choice of campgrounds and cabins, many of which stay open year-round.

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Top-rated campgrounds

1. Hogs Hollow Homestead LLC

1 site · Tent · Newton, TX

Sleep in a Tree tent and watch the stars and hear the night life. In the morning wake up to the birds chirping. Tree tent is surrounded by pine trees, oaks, cedars and magnolias. Enjoy a cool down at Vinnie's Beach (Creek) or in the cool water of the spring. Walk the primitive trails and explore what the forest has to offer. You can see how we make compost (if available take a bag home with you, which you have dug up yourself) Learn about worm farming, compost toilet, flushable vermicomposting toilet and many more homesteading activities if you want to explore them. If you want to explore the possibility of camping regularly and don't want to spend the money on buying equipment, Hogs Hollow Homestead is the place for you. Your tent will be set up for you and all camping equipment could be provided for you in order to make your camping experience enjoyable. Make this camping not just a camping experience but learning about what nature has to offer you. Hot coffee or tea will be brought to you to enjoy before starting your day. To add to your experience, we offer Clay or Essential oil Massages using clay from the property (at extra cost).

2. Whispering Creek Lodging & RV Resort

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39 sites · RVs, Lodging · Newton, TX

Quiet Getaway, Enjoy staying In a quiet wooded resort with plenty of amenities and things to do. Choose from a variety of stay options like; stay in one of our comfy cabins, or our cozy rooms, or rent one of our campers for the traveling feel, or bring your own camper and reserve a spot. Enjoy our many amenities and outdoor activities. Visit the local activities. Enjoy your stay and join us for breakfast or coffee in the morning.

3. Plentiful C & T Forestry Camp

1 site · Tent, RV · Woodville, TX

Plentiful Crown & Temple Forestry Campgrounds. 🌲 Description Escape to a private forest tucked behind two peaceful lakes and a dam. Camp beneath towering trees, fish or kayak on the water, and enjoy wildlife by day and stargazing by night. Guests are welcome to cut and use forest wood for campfires or projects (please avoid large trees), adding to the adventure. There’s even a blossoming pile of firewood right in front of the property. When you arrive, look for a post marked with the number 6—this is the property. You’ll also see a surveyor’s stake in the ground with pink string and blue yarn. This natural retreat offers plenty of space for tents, hammocks, or small RVs, giving you both freedom and privacy. Please don’t disturb the small shed, but if you see it, you’re in the right place! Whether you’re here to relax, recharge, or explore, this forest hideaway is the perfect off-grid escape. ✅ Amenities Campfires allowed (cut your own wood on-site) Pet-friendly 🐾 Parking available Lake access for fishing, kayaking, swimming Wide clearings for tents, hammocks, or small RVs. 🚫 What to Bring / Know No running water or electricity (pack in/pack out) Bring your own kayak, tools, fishing gear, and camping supplies Please respect nature & leave no trace.

4. Bigfoot Kingtown RV Park

31 sites · RVs · Nacogdoches, TX

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.

Public campgrounds in and near Sam Rayburn Reservoir

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Caney Creek Campground

26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Angelina National Forest

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Martin Dies Campground

176 sites · Tents, RVs · in Martin Dies, Jr. State Park

Red Hills Lake Campground

26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sabine National Forest

Indian Mounds Campground

37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sabine National Forest

Lakeview Campground

10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sabine National Forest

Ragtown Campground

25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sabine National Forest

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Martin Dies, Jr. State Park

Jasper, Texas

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Angelina National Forest

Broaddus, Texas

Sabine National Forest

Milam, Texas

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best river, stream, or creek RV camping in Sam Rayburn Reservoir guide

Where to go

North Shore

Enveloped in the pine woods of the Angelina National Forest, the north shore of Sam Rayburn Reservoir is dotted with lakefront parks, marinas, and picnic areas. There are boat ramps available at Harvey Creek and Bayou Boat Launch, and camping at Rayburn Park, Powell Park, and Townsend Recreation Area.

South Shore

The south side of the lake is where you’ll find some of the most popular hikes of the Angelina National Forest, including the Sawmill Hiking Trail and the Boykin Lakeside Trail. Camp at the Caney Creek and Sandy Creek recreation areas, enjoy horseback riding at Ebenezer Park, or play a game of golf at Rayburn Country Resort. Further west, the Davy Crockett National Forest has miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, and self-sufficient campers can enjoy dispersed camping throughout the NF lands.

East Shore

The small villages of Pineland, Brookeland, and Browndell sit along the eastern shore of Sam Rayburn, where you’ll find peaceful campgrounds and family-friendly RV resorts. Further east, the dense woodlands of the Sabine National Forest lead the way to the Toledo Bend Reservoir on the state lines of Texas and Louisiana. If you’re looking for a challenge, the 26.9-mile “Trail between the lakes” will take you from the shores of Sam Rayburn all the way to Toledo Bend.

West Shore

The western shore of Sam Rayburn Reservoir is the least developed and the spot to escape the crowds. Cruise out to explore the tranquil waters where the reservoir meets the Angelina River, launch your boat from the public launch at Marion Ferry Park, or enjoy backcountry camping in the northernmost reaches of the Angelina National Forest.