Notable Campgrounds
- Best for RVs: Raven Hill Camping Area has 23 mostly paved sites with full hookups.
- Best for lake-view tent camping: Coloneh Camping Area has 60 water-only sites, many of which look out over the lake.
- Best for water-loving campers: Prairie Branch Campground has 77 sites for RVs, vans, and tents, all close to the swimming beach, boat ramp, and fishing pier.
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- You can reserve sites at any of the park’s campgrounds in advance via the Texas State Parks website.
- Campsite reservations open five months in advance.
- Campsites can book up on summer and holiday weekends—book as early as possible, especially if you have a larger RV or a particular site in mind (such as those by the lakeside).
When to Go
Huntsville State Park is open year-round, but the most popular time to visit is from mid-February through Thanksgiving. Visit in spring migration for the best birding opportunities, in autumn to admire the fall foliage, or in summer to swim and paddle on the lake. The park is busiest on weekends, so plan a weekday visit if you’d like to dodge the crowds.
Know Before You Go
- Huntsville State Park is located 70 miles north of Houston or about a 75-minute drive away.
- Park entrance fees are required in addition to camping fees, and general entrance reservations can be made up to one month in advance.
- Facilities include restrooms, picnic areas and group shelters, playgrounds, a boat ramp, fishing piers, and fish washing stations. A store sells camping and fishing supplies, drinks, and ice cream. You can also purchase groceries and camping supplies in Huntsville, a 20-minute drive away.
- Alligators are common in the park—swim only in designated areas and never swim after sunset.
- There are wheelchair-accessible bank fishing areas, restrooms, and campsites in the park. The Prairie Branch Camping Area (including the fishing pier and boat), park store, and boat rental area are also accessible.
Huntsville State Park
Enjoy woodland walks and water activities in the East Texas Pineywoods.
Whether you prefer forest hikes or fishing on the lake—Huntsville State Park has you covered. On the southern rim of Sam Houston National Forest, there are over 2,000 acres to explore, including more than 20 miles of woodland trails, where you can hike, bike, or bird-watch. Set sail across Lake Raven in a canoe, kayak, or paddleboat; cool off with a swim at the designated swim area; or fish for crappie, catfish, and bass. Campers will find plenty of space at the three campgrounds, all by the lake, plus screened shelters and cabins.
Whether you prefer forest hikes or fishing on the lake—Huntsville State Park has you covered. On the southern rim of Sam Houston National Forest, there are over 2,000 acres to explore, including more than 20 miles of woodland trails, where you can hike, bike, or bird-watch. Set sail across Lake Raven in a canoe, kayak, or paddleboat; cool off with a swim at the designated swim area; or fish for crappie, catfish, and bass. Campers will find plenty of space at the three campgrounds, all by the lake, plus screened shelters and cabins.
Activities in the park
3 campgrounds in Huntsville State Park
Raven Hill is the place to park your four-wheeled crib! Backing it up is encouraged at these sites designed for motor-homes and other recreational vehicles. Tent campers take note, you may want to check out Coloneh or Prairie beach as this area is mostly paved. Raven Hill sites include a picnic table, fire ring, 30 and 50 amp hook-ups, and nearby Read more...
Come tents, come RVs, come all to Prairie Branch Campground! Here you’ll find a little bit of everything, including a nearby playground, fishing pier and fish cleaning station, shelters with water and electric hook-up, the only designated swimming spot in Prairie Branch, and more. To get away from the campground hooplah, simply wander across the w Read more...
Coloneh Campground is tent-tastic! If you’re looking for a low-key getaway at Huntsville State Park, then this campground is your gem. Located along the perimeter of Lake Raven, these sites are wickedly close to a fishing pier and fish cleaning station so you can get your angling game on from dusk ‘til dawn. All camp areas are equipped with a picn Read more...
Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?
Notable Campgrounds
Notable Campgrounds
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
Huntsville State Park is open year-round, but the most popular time to visit is from mid-February through Thanksgiving. Visit in spring migration for the best birding opportunities, in autumn to admire the fall foliage, or in summer to swim and paddle on the lake. The park is busiest on weekends, so plan a weekday visit if you’d like to dodge the crowds.
Know Before You Go
Public campgrounds (book externally) —