The best camping near Wildwood with horseback riding

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Hidden away amid the rambling woodlands of the Big Thicket National Preserve, the gated community of Wildwood is a tranquil spot to escape from it all. Simple pleasures await in the resort town—stroll the tree-lined trails, tee off at the golf course, or head to the lake to sail, kayak, fish, or cool off with a swim. There’s RV and tent camping in town, but for a more adventurous option, seek out remote backcountry campsites throughout Big Thicket. Miles of hiking, kayaking, and bird-watching trails await discovery in the preserve, winding through cypress swamps, creeks, and unspoiled wilderness. 

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Top-rated campgrounds near Wildwood

2. The Retreat at Artesian Lakes

23mi from Wildwood · 20 sites
The Retreat at Artesian Lakes stands out as a one-of-a-kind destination, offering a harmonious blend of nature and comfort with its authentic log cabins and suites. This facility is perfect for a variety of occasions, including weekend getaways, family vacations, romantic escapes, garden weddings, group retreats, corporate gatherings, and business conferences. Nestled on the edge of the Texas Big Thicket National Preserve, just an hour's drive north of Houston, The Retreat provides a serene escape into the great outdoors. Guests can enjoy overnight stays in charming log cabins, spacious log suites, and private log homes, all designed to enhance your experience in this picturesque setting. In addition to its unique accommodations, The Retreat at Artesian Lakes is surrounded by natural beauty, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby swimming holes. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, you can easily enjoy the best of both nature and convenience during your stay.

Hidden away amid the rambling woodlands of the Big Thicket National Preserve, the gated community of Wildwood is a tranquil spot to escape from it all. Simple pleasures await in the resort town—stroll the tree-lined trails, tee off at the golf course, or head to the lake to sail, kayak, fish, or cool off with a swim. There’s RV and tent camping in town, but for a more adventurous option, seek out remote backcountry campsites throughout Big Thicket. Miles of hiking, kayaking, and bird-watching trails await discovery in the preserve, winding through cypress swamps, creeks, and unspoiled wilderness. 

100% (2)

Top-rated campgrounds near Wildwood

2. The Retreat at Artesian Lakes

23mi from Wildwood · 20 sites
The Retreat at Artesian Lakes stands out as a one-of-a-kind destination, offering a harmonious blend of nature and comfort with its authentic log cabins and suites. This facility is perfect for a variety of occasions, including weekend getaways, family vacations, romantic escapes, garden weddings, group retreats, corporate gatherings, and business conferences. Nestled on the edge of the Texas Big Thicket National Preserve, just an hour's drive north of Houston, The Retreat provides a serene escape into the great outdoors. Guests can enjoy overnight stays in charming log cabins, spacious log suites, and private log homes, all designed to enhance your experience in this picturesque setting. In addition to its unique accommodations, The Retreat at Artesian Lakes is surrounded by natural beauty, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby swimming holes. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, you can easily enjoy the best of both nature and convenience during your stay.

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The best camping near Wildwood with horseback riding guide

Where to go

East Texas Forests

All of Texas’ four national forests lie within a short drive of Wildwood, where you can park at remote RV campgrounds or enjoy primitive camping in the heart of the woods. North of Wildwood, the piney woods of Angelina National Forest line the shores of Sam Rayburn Reservoir, where you can swim in natural coves and fish for bass and catfish. To the West, Davy Crockett National Forest is popular with hikers and horseback riders, while to the east, Sabine National Forest sprawls to the Louisiana border.

North Houston 

West of Wildwood, the Sam Houston National Forest is hemmed in by two lakes—Lake Conroe and Lake Livingston—providing campers with a choice of forest or lakeside views. Bring your horse, OHV, or hiking boots to explore the many trails, or challenge yourself to the  128-mile Lone Star Hiking Trail. Further south, there are more options for backcountry camping at the Lake Houston Wilderness Park.

Beaumont and Port Arthur

Driving south from Wildwood on Highway 96, the cities of Beaumont and Port Arthur lie along Texas’ coastal plains. Take a boat cruise along the Neches River, go bird-watching around the Cattail Marsh Scenic Wetlands, or look out for American alligators in the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge. If you want to stay longer, you’ll find several RV parks along the riverfront and around Sabine Lake. 

When to go

Campsites stay open year-round in Wildwood, but spring and fall are ideal for hiking and boating in the Big Thicket National Preserve. The Texas sun can be sweltering in summer, so prepare for high humidity and opt for a waterside campsite where you can cool off when it gets too hot. Winters campers visiting the National Forests will need to stick to the designated campgrounds—dispersed camping isn’t permitted during hunting season (November through January).

Know before you go

  • You’ll need your own transportation to get to and around Wildwood. 
  • Limited amenities are available in Wildwood. The closest town to purchase groceries, fuel, and supplies is Warren, about a 10-minute drive away. Pick up what you need in town before heading out.
  • Most Texas state parks and national forests require reservations for both day passes and campgrounds. Permits are also often required for fishing, ATVs, and horses