The best forest campgrounds near Santa Fe, Texas

Santa Fe’s forests draw campers who want shade, scenery, and a break from city noise. You’ve got over 160 forest sites to choose from here, with prices starting at $20 per night and an average stay running $25. Bring your boots—trails cut through thick pines and aspen, and horseback riding is common. Wildlife-watching is a given; mule deer wander close at dusk. Sites like Magnolia Gardens Park (56 reviews) and Rustic creek (6 reviews) are favorites for their quiet woods and reliable basics—campfires allowed, showers, and toilets. Pack layers. Forest nights cool off fast, even in summer.

87% (65)

Top-rated campgrounds

Santa Fe’s forests draw campers who want shade, scenery, and a break from city noise. You’ve got over 160 forest sites to choose from here, with prices starting at $20 per night and an average stay running $25. Bring your boots—trails cut through thick pines and aspen, and horseback riding is common. Wildlife-watching is a given; mule deer wander close at dusk. Sites like Magnolia Gardens Park (56 reviews) and Rustic creek (6 reviews) are favorites for their quiet woods and reliable basics—campfires allowed, showers, and toilets. Pack layers. Forest nights cool off fast, even in summer.

87% (65)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Magnolia Gardens Park

85%

(88)

35mi from Santa Fe · 60 sites · Tents, RVs · Sheldon, TX

Located steps from the San Jacinto River Historic Magnolia Gardens Park. Have your coffee riverside as the steam rises off the warm water. Observing the abundant wildlife. If a secluded GREEN space is what you're looking for, you fond it!Learn more about this land:Located on the sandy beaches of the San Jacinto River, Magnolia Gardens park. We offer a family environment you can picnic, camp, swim, fish, kayak, and rent jet skis. Set up your tent on the beach, or in the wooded areas. You can drive around the property till you find the perfect spot. There are areas near electric plugs 🔌 not Available in all areas of the park. If u wish for secluded camp site. We have plenty of space away from The world. Disconnect to reconnect

2. Rustic creek

93%

(7)

27mi from Santa Fe · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · Rosharon, TX

There is no history to this land I know of .Learn more about this land:lots of trees one side you can see some homes . 30 minutes from beaches and houston fort bend state park dow the road. No amminitties just yet as wee grow will add

3. Alexsandra (RV Park)

45mi from Santa Fe · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Brazoria, TX

Please visit Alexsandrarvpark.com to check in to full hookup sites. Alexsandra is an RV Park outside of Brazoria situated in an idyllic setting where nature can be enjoyed with modern amenities. Forget about living on top of each other with no breathing room. Come out here where there is space! There is plenty of outdoor space shaded by beautiful large trees for relaxing and recreation. Wifi internet, an on-site laundry room, and a gym are available for guest usage. The property is security camera monitored. Located 20 minutes from the Chevron Phillips plant in Sweeny, and 30 minutes from Lake Jackson and Dow & multiple others in Freeport, it is the ideal location to be connected with excellent access while enjoying relaxed country living and staying free of the big city living feeling.

4. Brazos Bend State Park

91%

(16)

107 sites · Sandy Point, Texas

Escape the big city to camp in one of the best bird-watching spots in Texas.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Dell Creek RV Park

36mi from Santa Fe · 1 site · RV · Crosby, TX

17 acres to roam. Large Guest sites. Full water & Sewer Hookups with 30 & 50 amp power. Free Wi-Fi. On-Site Laundry, dog wash. Walking trails, fishing pond & playground. Gated for your security. Enjoy the surrounding attractions of Lake Houston, San Jacinto River, Pirates Bay Water Park, Nasa, Galveston, Museums, Plays, resturants, movies, bowling, & shopping.

6. Anahuac RV Park

36mi from Santa Fe · 47 sites · Anahuac, TX

Discover the charm of Anahuac RV Park, a unique and tranquil retreat nestled in the heart of Texas's alligator capital. This serene campground serves as the perfect launching point for adventurers eager to explore the natural wonders of Southeast Texas. With its proximity to stunning beaches, vibrant birdwatching spots, and thrilling boating and kayaking opportunities, Anahuac RV Park offers a wealth of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Whether you're interested in hunting or simply soaking in the beauty of the landscape, there's something for everyone here. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby National Wildlife Refuge, where you can immerse yourself in the local ecosystem. For fishing aficionados, both saltwater and freshwater fishing options abound, ensuring a fun-filled experience. Anahuac RV Park guarantees a memorable stay with a variety of engaging activities and attractions right at your fingertips.

Public campgrounds near Santa Fe

91%

(16)

Brazos Bend Campground

30mi from Santa Fe · 107 sites · Tents, RVs · in Brazos Bend State Park

Stories from the community

A

Alexander

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at Magnolia Gardens Park

Our experience at the place was spectacular. It should be noted that there "THERE ARE BATHROOMS", THERE ARE also SHOWERS. The attention was spectacular. The place is very clean. I just want to emphasize that the entrance is until 7pm. So if you plan to go camping you must arrive before 7pm. I recommend this place 100%

A

Alan

September 2025

21 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Magnolia Gardens Park

My dog and I enjoyed a quiet peaceful visit to Magnolia Gardens and were so relaxed walking along the San Jacinto River while the train made its way across the old trestle bridge at the far end of the park. Very nice place and the sunset over the river was icing on the cake! Thanks!

C

Corrianne

July 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Magnolia Gardens Park

Very laid back camp ground with options to camp under the trees or on the river bank. We will definitely return.

A

Angeles

June 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Magnolia Gardens Park

Open to public 7am-7pm very lively with jet skies, people playing, music, and cook outs. Once all non-campers leave its very calm area and you have the whole property to yourself. Wake up to a beautiful scenery. There're lose dogs but calm and don't bother anyone. Staff is very friendly. Clean place trash cans placed around property and dumped out daily, clean restrooms, rarely any branches

b

beau

June 2025

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Magnolia Gardens Park

It was pretty good overall. Camping was fun fun funny a grand jolly time! The beach was cool too

D

Denise

April 2025

28 ft travel trailer

1 night at Magnolia Gardens Park

It was a little confusing as there was no designated Campspot. Just a lot of picnic tables. So we parked near one and set up camp with our RV for the night. We loved how private it was and quiet it was. Now that I understand how it works. I would definitely go back again.

A

Amy

March 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Rustic creek

Great location and host Woukd definitely stay again

A

Aaron

March 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Magnolia Gardens Park

It was the perfect camp set up. A hill overlooking the river and nobody crowding your site. The Managers were sincere and friendly. Maria brought fresh coffee at 7 am and hung out with us. Real good people. Loved everything about it! Definitely coming back!

J

Janine

February 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Magnolia Gardens Park

So much space and nice sandy beach. Staff all friendly and ready to help you out if needed. Even gave some good recommendations on what spot to best use for camping

Natalie

December 2024

45 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Rustic creek

Tjona and family went above and beyond making sure we felt welcome, from inviting us in for a home cooked meal, to helping us get our bus unstuck after a few days of rain. Can't wait to visit again to see all the renovations they have coming!

N

Nathan

December 2024

Tent

1 night at Magnolia Gardens Park

Nice place along a beautiful the river. Not a lot of other folks here in December so you have your choice of camping spots. Bring bug repellant. Two things to note, the gates are closed from 7pm - 7am. I believe you can make arrangements for later arrival but I would do so well before arriving. Also, there are a few off leash dogs that seem to be full-timers. They keep to themselves for the most part but consider this if you have your own pets with you.