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The best camping near Sam Houston National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Sam Houston adventure.

The best camping near Sam Houston National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Sam Houston adventure.

Camping near Sam Houston National Forest

97% (19 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Sam Houston adventure.

Woodland camping and wilderness areas lie along Texas’ Lone Star Hiking Trail.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Sam Houston National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Sam Houston National Forest

91%
(164)

Buck Acres near Lake Conroe, TX

20 sites ¡ RVs, Tents6 acres ¡ Montgomery, TX
The previous owner had plans to turn our property into a 42 site row by row RV Park. Once we saw the beauty of the property, we knew we had to keep it as wild and pristine as possible. On 6.5 acres the perfect number of sites was 18 keeping the large house for short-term rental (coming soon.) Sorry, we are still under construction but excited about our progress! See a short video at https://www.buckacresrv.com Buck Acres is technically not even an RV park, we just want to share our property with fellow travelers so we added some gravel roads. The only amenities are a Wi-Fi, 50/30/20A plug-ins, a porta-john and water. We use HipCamp and The Dyrt for bookings or just give us a call or text at (832) 303-9940 "Close to everything, away from it all" We're in the country but close to city amenities and beautiful Lake Conroe. It's only a few minutes from April Sound and the largest marina on Lake Conroe, 8 minutes to Wal-Mart and Kroger, yet it's peaceful and quiet on our forested property. As full-time RV nomads ourselves we know RV park rates are getting crazy, Buck Acres is our attempt to help the community. We've done everything we can to keep rates down. The only amenities we offer are shade, Wi-Fi, electricity, water, and an ADA porta john that is cleaned every week. Affordable RV parks shouldn't be sweltering parking lots where you're packed in like sardines! At Buck Acres we have 100' tall hardwoods and pines that have been trimmed up 60' for the safety of you and your rig! Buck Acres is still under construction and it is a labor of love. All proceeds go immediately back into the park. Bring your family, pets, and friends - tents and RVs welcome! Please Note: Quiet Hours are 10pm - 8am Please keep fires within designated fire rings Keep pets on leash - Clean up any pet waste Do not walk through other people’s campsites. Respect the boundaries and their privacy. Dispose of garbage in designated trash receptacles Guests are responsible for the behavior of their children and pets Guests are responsible for all damage or destruction of property and any injury to persons caused by the guest, or by their family, visitor(s), or pets. Management reserves the right to refuse service or terminate stay for violations.
from 
$25
 / night
99%
(2483)

5D RANCH

25 sites ¡ RVs, Tents400 acres ¡ Navasota, TX
Welcome to 5D Ranch in Navasota, TX. We’re located 60 miles North of Houston and just 2.5 hours from Austin. We have over 14 miles of trails, 2 fishing ponds, 4 boats that are free to use, and great views of the night sky. With 24 unique campsites, we’re sure to have one that fits your needs! We also can provide rentals of camping essentials, a S'mores package and we offer a meet the ponies session that can be scheduled upon your arrival. We can’t wait to host you! Don't forget to ask us about our farm fresh eggs!
from 
$30
 / night
100%
(17)

The Navasota River Ranch

16 sites ¡ RVs, Tents600 acres ¡ Navasota, TX
The Navasota River Ranch is a 600 ac parcel of land bounded by more than a mile of the Navasota River on its west side and two tributary creeks on its north and southeast sides. The river bottom is wild and untamed, while the rest is rolling hills reminiscent of the prairie that once greeted settlers. Nearby is Bryan-College Station home of Texas A&M University To the west on Hwy 105 is Washington on the Brazos State Park. This is the location where delegates gathered to hastily draw up a declaration of independence before joining the Runaway Scrape to avoid capture and execution by the advancing Mexican Army. Farther down the road is the famous Blue Bell creamery in Brenham. The tour and ice cream are well worth the trip. On the property are miles of Jeep trails excellent for off road and 4WD vehicles. Guests might prefer hiking along these trails or strike out on foot trails and game trails. Thanks to the hunters who have come for the deer and feral hogs over the years there are numerous observation structures for viewing wildlife up close, or just enjoying the solitude of the deep woods. Three ponds offer bass and perch fishing from the bank or bring your own boat. And then there is the Navasota River...
from 
$30
 / night
100%
(11)

Hidden Hills of Lake Conroe

1 site ¡ Lodging4 acres ¡ Montgomery, TX
Our little slice of wooded privacy gives the feeling that you’re out in the country, while being a mile or two from all the best restaurants, stores, shopping centers and of course lovely lake Conroe. Waterpointe center is one mile from our driveway. There you’ll find CVS, Starbucks, boutiques, restaurants, salons and a beautiful river walk along the lakes shoreline. Once you settle in to your comfy glamping, home away from home, Feel free to use the poolside fire pit. Or if weather permits, the swimming pool is always a great place to relax and unwind. There’s a nearby pond that hosts home many types of wildlife. Don’t be surprised to see groups of deer wandering around the property. They’re harmless and timid. And they love fruit any veggie scraps you might want to toss in the woods for them. There’s a large walk-in port a poty just a few yards from the tent.
from 
$70
 / night
100%
(6)

Hazel Park

3 sites ¡ RVs48 acres ¡ Panorama Village, TX
Hazel Park is primarily a 30 acre stand of pine. It has several trails and Crystal Creek Runs through it. In addition there is a cleared 15 acre area once used for farming and grazing. It includes our homestead. The camping area is 3 acres of an abandoned homestead which includes a water well, electricity and septic system. One septic hookup is available No toilet is available there yet. There is a septic dump. Adjacent to this area is a private pond for fishing. Off road vehicles are welcome. Lake Conroe is located about 6 miles west. The Sam Houston National Forest entrance is about 18 miles north. Beyond the national forest is Huntsville and Sam Houston State University 24 miles. To the East is Lake Livingston 35 miles and a continuation of the national forest. To the south are the cities of Conroe, The Woodlands, Spring, and Houston. Downtown Houston is about 49 miles away.
from 
$50
 / night
98%
(136)

Briers Ranch Primitive Camping

20 sites ¡ Tents200 acres ¡ Anderson, TX
Briers Primitive Camping is about a half-mile thru two pastures off of FM 244. Some pasture, some woods, creek, gullies--lots to explore. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent in a field or deep in the woods. Explore pasture, brushy areas, gullies, washouts, creek bed. Practice orienteering. Hike in the woods. Cut firewood and build a fire. Primitive camping for Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, or others who just want to get away for a night, a weekend, or longer.
from 
$20
 / night
100%
(7)

Big City Little Farm

92 sites ¡ RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Cleveland, TX
Opening Day is April 28, 2023! We have a 5 acre homestead/hobby farm that is nestled in the Sam Houston National Forest. We are off the beaten path with beautiful views, peace and quiet and farm animals! We have goats, donkeys, rabbits, a miniature cow, a miniature horse, ducks and chickens roaming our property. We just had a new addition Colt who was born on our property March 12th. He is our precious little donkey. We are a semi primitive camping spot. Come and enjoy getting away from the city without going too far. Enjoy the beautiful star filled sky. Feed the animals at 9am and love on them all day. Have your professional pictures taken with some of the animals(additional charge). Buy some farm fresh eggs. Coming soon t-shirts will be available for purchase. Our website is https://www.bigcity-littlefarm.com Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@bigcitylittlefarm2230/about. Keep coming back and Follow us on IG https://www.instagram.com/bigcity_littlefarm/ Whether you’re looking for breathtaking brushes with nature or good old-fashioned fun, Cleveland, Texas has you covered. This part of the Lone Star State boasts beautiful forests and placid lakes and ponds that provide much-needed refreshment during the summer months, as well as lovely escapes during spring and fall. In addition to its natural appeal, Cleveland offers a diverse culinary scene with plenty of cozy restaurants ideal for meeting old friends and making new ones. https://www.tourtexas.com/destinations/cleveland-things-to-do Cleveland is just miles from Conroe. Conroe is a city in and the county seat of Montgomery County, Texas, United States, about 40 miles north of Houston. Conroe is the perfect blend of starry nights and city lights. And being the fastest-growing city in Texas, Conroe has so much to offer. Conroe is bordered by 22,000-acre Lake Conroe, Sam Houston National Forest, and W. Goodrich Jones State Forest, making for a veritable utopia for the outdoor lover in us all. Aside from the outdoors, Conroe has a bustling downtown with breweries, theatres and plenty of shopping. There is also plenty of live music, which has earned Conroe the designation of Music Friendly Community by the state of Texas. Whether you are looking for an adventure or a little rest and relaxation, you will find it in Conroe. https://www.visitconroe.com/
from 
$5
 / night
99%
(70)

Natura Wellness Retreat

6 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents15 acres ¡ Magnolia, TX
Our property Just 40 mins from downtown Houston and 20 mins from The Woodlands, Natura Wellness Retreat is a 25-acre wildlife preserve that offers three glamping tents. There is catch-and-release fishing at our stocked pond.(no license required). The retreat has trails for hiking and flat areas to enjoy outdoor yoga. The pergola on the pond offers a place for serene meditation or enjoying a cold beer. Far enough away from the hustle and bustle to feel totally secluded, but within a quick drive to supermarkets, restaurants, and movie theaters. Enjoy the peace of nature in the vicinity of the 4th largest city in America.
from 
$50
 / night

Primal Tent Spot

1 site ¡ RV6 acres ¡ Montgomery, TX
Escape to the heart of the countryside, where adventure awaits amidst a backdrop of lush hardwoods and serene ponds. Our property offers the perfect blend of tranquility and excitement, with a variety of activities to suit every taste. Relax by the shimmering pond, where hammocks beckon for lazy afternoons and lounge chairs invite you to soak up the sun. As night falls, gather around a crackling fire under the blanket of dark skies, and marvel at the brilliance of the stars above. With RV spots, parking areas, and tent sites available, there's plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the beauty of nature and the thrill of outdoor exploration. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply seeking solace, our property promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the countryside.
from 
$55
 / night
100%
(1)

Family Farms

5 sites ¡ Lodging25 acres ¡ Plantersville, TX
Nestled in the serene countryside, this sprawling 25-acre retreat offers a perfect blend of tranquility and rural charm. An expansive 8-acre lake awaits fishing enthusiasts for catch-and-release adventures. Charming country cabins provide a haven for family enjoyment, ensuring a quiet, peaceful, and relaxing experience all in one place. These cabins are equipped with heating and air conditioning, ensuring comfort throughout the changing seasons. Additionally, separate restrooms with showers, sinks, and toilets add convenience to your stay. In season, indulge in the delights of fresh strawberries, blackberries, and a variety of vegetables available for your picking pleasure.
from 
$100
 / night
100%
(6)

CASA ROSA A

3 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents1 acre ¡ Willis, TX
Hook Wine Sinker RV Park is situated directly on Lake Conroe in Willis, TX and occupies well-maintained grounds.  Pull up your RV or your Tiny Home to a lake front view.   We also have plenty of fun activities to choose from. Enjoy fishing lakes, or just relax in front of the lake and soak up the sun each spot having a lake front view+.Hook Wine Sinker RV Park is family owned and operated.  We are located minutes from Conroe, The Woodlands and Houston, Texas so there is no shortage of activities and events going on every week.
from 
$60
 / night
100%
(2)

Khushatta Hills Ranch Camp

3 sites ¡ Lodging20 acres ¡ Coldspring, TX
Immerse yourself among the peaceful hills and forest at Khushatta Hills Ranch Camp! Located near Lake Livingston and Sam Houston National Park, we provide the perfect basecamp to enjoy outdoor activities in comfort. After a day of outdoor adventures, relax sitting in Adirondack chairs on your private deck. This is the perfect getaway for families and couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Houston, Texas. Khushatta Hills has three glamping tents on property. Nestled within natural beauty, our glamping site offers most of the comforts of home combined with outdoor camping which includes: a queen bed, full-size bed, comfortable Adirondack chairs, bbq grill, fire-pit, outdoor showers, and a clean flushing toilet. One of the glamping tents contains just one queen bed, perfect for romantic getaways. We also have fun games like horse-shoes, bean bag toss, and board games as well! Khushatta Hills Ranch Camp is a place for family and friends to come and enjoy quiet time in nature. Ingrid, owner of Khushatta Hills Ranch is a retired educator, and air force veteran who has always wanted to offer an escape to peace and tranquility. Her family has owned this beautiful piece of land on the doorstep of Sam Houston National Forest for over 5 generations. From the origins of Khushatta Hills Ranch in 1871, the women in her family have cared for the land, using it to grow local produce to feed multiple families in the area, to now opening the space for visitors to relax and enjoy. Ingrid is passionate, and ambitious, and wants to continue her family legacy with this luxury camping site near Lake Livingston. Her goal has been to create a modern and eco-friendly environment by establishing a community of luxury camping in Texas. The work and determination from Ingrid have created a unique glamping experience in a serene and secluded location that all guests will undoubtedly enjoy.
from 
$100
 / night

The best camping near Sam Houston National Forest guide

Overview

About

With 161,508 acres of forests, lakes, and woodlands stretching across three counties, Sam Houston National Forest has plenty to tempt adventurous campers. Lace up your hiking boots for the ultimate challenge—the 128-mile Lone Star Hiking Trail—or discover more than 80 miles of multi-use trails by bike, OHV, or horseback. You can also escape the crowds in the Little Lake Creek Wilderness Area, enjoy swimming and watersports at Double Lake, or fish for black bass around Lake Conroe or Lake Livingston. Campers have three campgrounds to choose from, and seasonal primitive camping is allowed along the Lone Star Trail. 

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for outdoor enthusiasts: Cagle Recreation Area has 48 full hookup campsites with access to hiking and biking trails, as well as watersports and fishing at Lake Conroe.  
  • Best for family campers: Double Lake Recreation Area has lakeside family and group campsites, some with full hookups, and close to the beach, swimming area, and concession stand. 
  • Best for a back-to-nature experience: Stubblefield Lake Recreation Area has 28 tent and RV pitches with basic facilities and no hookups.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve one of the park’s three camping grounds via the National Recreation Reservations Service, either online or by phone. All campsites must be booked at least 48 hours in advance; any remaining sites will be first come, first served.
  2. Campsite reservations open six months in advance. 
  3. Campsites can book up quickly, especially for holiday weekends, so make your reservation as soon as possible.

When to go

Outdoor activities in the Sam Houston National Forest are most enjoyable from winter through spring, and the mild weather is ideal for camping with an average winter temperature of 53°F. Summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures soaring into the upper 90’s. Camping along the Lone Star Hiking Trail is allowed from February through September—outside of this season, you can camp only at designated campgrounds. November-December is hunting season, so wear hi-vis clothing if hiking. 

Know before you go

  • Sam Houston National Forest is located 50 miles north of Houston, or about a 1-hour drive. The forest stretches between Montgomery, Walker, and San Jacinto counties.
  • A day-use pass is payable in addition to camping fees and includes access to boat ramps, swim beaches, and picnic areas. Additional permits are required for ATVs and horses. 
  • There are restrooms, picnic benches, and grills available at the day-use areas, but there are no facilities along the trails. Bring everything you need with you, including drinking water. Insect repellent is a must from spring through fall.
  • Campfires are permitted only in fire rings or grills. 
  • There are wheelchair-accessible campsites and restrooms at Cagle and Double Lake.

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