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Neches River National Wildlife Refuge

The best camping in Neches River National Wildlife Refuge, TX

Discover the Neches River National Wildlife Refuge and its abundant wildlife.

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Stories from the community

Jacob

4 days ago

17 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Peninsula Point

Beautiful spot to watch sunsets. The property is clean l, well maintained, and peaceful.

Stef

1 week ago

With pets

3 nights at Cabins directly on the Lake

We had a wonderful stay at Stewart’s Cove in Cabin 3! Gene was incredibly kind and welcoming, and the cabin itself was clean and comfortable with great water pressure and a beautiful view. We loved being able to catch fish right from the pier and truly enjoyed every moment. We’re already planning to return — this time bringing our whole family!

Robin

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Ranch At Beulah

I had so much fun with my pup at the ranch! It was a wonderful experience and one I absolutely want to have again. My dog and I were able to explore the property and I love that he was able to be off leash. He is a very well behaved dog and it was lovely he got to be wild and free. Can’t wait to escape the city lights and enjoy nature again.

Matthew

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to B2 Ranch Lake Cabin

This place is a great quite family get away with lots to do. Very beautiful land and scenery. The kids had a blast fishing out of all the ponds while the cows were hanging out all around us! Cabin is nice, clean, and peaceful. Will definitely be staying again and highly recommend visiting!

Savhanna

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to M Rockin C Ranch

Loved camping here was a ton of places to pick from to set up camp which was great. Loved seeing the cows every morning walking through camp.

Heather

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to M Rockin C Ranch

Heath and his place were amazing! Heath communicated with us before our arrival so we would know exactly what to expect. He checked in on us during our stay, and even gave us a tour when he was feeding the animals. His ranch was peaceful and beautiful. We would definitely visit again!

Rosetta

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

5 nights at Heavenly Haven & Hideaways

We enjoyed our stay. It is conveniently located.

Jennifer

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Heavenly Haven & Hideaways

Very clean and well kept! The property was beautiful with all the trees. Even the outhouse was kind of spotless! Would definitely stay again.

Jacob

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Caddo Springs Farm

Our trip on Christopher’s land was fantastic! The property was beautiful and a wonderful escape from the city. The pond was a really nice element, and we manage to catch a perch and a bass before a cold front came in. Christopher was very attentive and even brought us extra firewood when we requested it after arrival! His hospitality was extraordinary. The process was very simple and I would certainly return to this spot in the future.

BRIAN

3 weeks ago

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Peninsula Point

Great view and close to the club house. It was very quiet and peaceful!!!

Lauren

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to The Ranch At Beulah

It was such a relaxing and memorable experience. The property was beautiful—quiet, clean, and surrounded by nature. The hosts were incredibly welcoming and respectful of privacy, but also available if I needed anything. It felt like the perfect mix of camping and comfort. I’d definitely recommend this spot to anyone looking to unwind, disconnect, and enjoy the outdoors!

Reynaldo

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Ranch At Beulah

Great experience!! Noah made the best oven pizza. Will recommend 100%

Tim

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Caddo Springs Farm

We needed a spot to pitch a tent passing through the night. The spot was private and beautiful. We will use it again!

Kayla

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tara Vineyard & Winery estate

Had an awesome tent camping experience here at Tara Vineyard and Winery! First of there are adorable animals 💜. Secondly the bathroom amenities were super clean! Note that the shower is an outdoor shower so be sure to bring a bathing suit to shower in. The shower water was lukewarm, but honestly didn’t bother me. Overall had a great time camping here. Sadly, we didn’t make time to try out the winery, but guess we’ll have to come back and try it out! The charcuterie boards looked amazing though 😍!

View of the sunrise from Lakeside Cabin 1

David

October 2025

Group trip

4 nights at Cabins directly on the Lake

The cabins are right on the water, and you have access to kayaks and paddle boats.

patricia

October 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Heavenly Haven & Hideaways

Such a beautiful spot! Very quiet, tons of trees, cutesy fire wood, chairs, sinks, trails. Loved my time there. Will definitely book again. 60 acres to roam and I was lucky to catch the leaves changing. They’re serious about allowing dogs off leash. Not an issue for me. I love dogs and enjoyed my several sweet dog visitors.

Supun

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sandy Ridge Camping

I have been in to a dozens of campsites around here in Dallas and Sandy ridge is the best one so far. Amazing place

Edward

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Ranch At Beulah

The hosts were very welcoming. Great stay. Lit tent at night made a great evening while sitting by the campfire! Plenty of firewood. We will definitely stay again.

Fenced 1/2 acre compound just north of upper pond. Fresh potable well water now available. One of the more permanent composting toilets (outhouses) located at this location. Outdoor shower avaialble. Liimited 20amp service available.

Christina

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to M Rockin C Ranch

We loved camping on Heath's land! The views were amazing and the field was wide open to view the stars at night! Heath was most informative and welcoming. The cows graze in the field we camped on and came close as they were curious but nothing that wasn't expected. This is a very peaceful place and not far from the nearest city. We will be back to enjoy this beautiful place!

Boston

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sandy Ridge Camping

really spacious and well kept spot! Very friendly hosts

Top-rated campgrounds

Heavenly Haven & Hideaways

97%

(52)

38mi from Neches River National Wildlife Refuge · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Tyler, TX

Escape the hustle of everyday life and discover a place where nature, comfort, and community come together. At Heavenly Haven & Hideaways, we’ve created a family- and pet-friendly retreat where guests feel truly welcome—whether you’re camping under the stars, enjoying the trails, or relaxing in a cozy cabin. Our story began in the Dallas area, where we dreamed of having land, space, and the chance to share the great outdoors with others. Former avid RVers, we missed the joy of “glamping” and community life on the road. When we found this property in Tyler, Texas, we knew it was the perfect place to bring that vision to life. What started as a dream has become a God-inspired project fueled by our love for people, adventure, and the beauty of East Texas. Spread across 60 heavily treed acres, our property offers RV and tent camping, as well as two fully furnished cabins available for short- or mid-term rental (see photos and booking at heavenlyhavenandhideaways.com). Guests can gather around the large communal firepit, enjoy games like tetherball, volleyball, and horseshoes, or relax in the open field with a frisbee or a couple portable disc golf baskets. Trails wind throughout the property, including a small creek and endless opportunities to explore. The trailhead is located just south of Site A. We’re conveniently located just a few miles from Tyler State Park, where you can swim, bike, or rent paddleboats, and the Caldwell Zoo, known as one of the best small zoos in Texas. Shopping, museums, and great food are close by, along with unique stops in nearby Lindale—like Miranda Lambert’s Pink Pistol boutique. Whether you’re here to rest, play, hike, or explore, Heavenly Haven & Hideaways offers the perfect mix of peace and adventure. We can’t wait to host you here in East Texas! 👉 facebook.com/heavenly.haven.and.hideaways

Sandy Ridge Camping

100%

(610)

48mi from Neches River National Wildlife Refuge · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Canton, TX

We're happy that we can open up our land for campers. Before booking please read the following information and site descriptions. You can enjoy wooded walking paths in the 90-acre forest and pastures, ponds and wildlife, including deer, wild hogs, hawks, owls, roadrunners, doves, cardinals, jays, woodpeckers, mockingbirds, and many other species of birds. Small mammals such as armadillos, rabbits, and squirrels are often seen, and the property is also awesome for stargazing. Please watch out for snakes, scorpions, pesky mosquitoes, chiggers and ticks. This land has been a huge blessing to us and we hope you will enjoy your stay here. Arrival time should be no later than 9pm. Please inquire before booking if your arrival time might be later. Thank you.

Tara Vineyard & Winery estate

93%

(94)

38mi from Neches River National Wildlife Refuge · 15 sites · Tents · Athens, TX

Peaceful, quiet, luxurious, historic, wine country experience. Tara Winery offers a unique vineyard and winery resort style experience. Discover Tara and the myths surrounding the secrets of the vines. TARA was named after the sailboat TARA, pierce family started the vineyard in 2006 and opened the winery in 2007. The historic Murchison mansion is an iconic structure in the midst of the vines. Onsite tasting room and restaurant with share plates and full meals. In 2023, we have added a beautiful 50 ft pool with lovely water features, there is an activity fee to use the pool. Please plan to arrive before dark, so you can get settled in the daylight. We do not have 24 hour staff. Learn more about this land: Camping throughout the Tara Vineyard property. We have primitive sites available in the wooded trail. If you would like a beautiful view of the winery property, ground camping throughout the vineyard is available and most popular ! There is quick access to our winery and food service if you prefer to relax under our covered patio, or pick up a rib eye or filet from the chef and cook it yourself on your propane grill our our community grill. Enjoy your hand crafted estate wine from TARA winery while camping under the stars. You can be among others or select a remote location. Fires permitted only in designed fire pits. No exceptions. We have 2 bathrooms and a solar heated shower near the trail head, camping also available near vineyard. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. is check-in time.

Big Tex Campgrounds

100%

(3)

41mi from Neches River National Wildlife Refuge · 114 sites · RVs · Ben Wheeler, TX

Hi! We're Kaylee and Josh. Big Tex Campgrounds is a 30 acre campground located 10 minutes from Canton and 20 minutes from Tyler in the quirky and eclectic town of Ben Wheeler- We built our campground *with* the trees, not *through* the trees and love giving RV families a space to feel like they are truly camping in nature, but with the all the added comforts (plus a laundry facility) We are constantly building and adding on and growing our campground. In the near future, we will have primitive tent sites, Teepees and a 5 acre swimming pond with a beach. We'd love to have you witness our growth and be apart of the Journey! Hope you Enjoy East Texas!

M Rockin C Ranch

100%

(7)

31mi from Neches River National Wildlife Refuge · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · Grapeland, TX

M-Rockin-C Ranch, owned and operated by retired US veteran, is raising egg laying chickens, pastured boiler chickens, goats (Nigerian Dwarfs, Pygmy and a Nigerian-Pygmy cross), rabbits (California - meat/pets) and also have grass-fed beef (Brangus, Angus and F1 Hybrids). We have expanded our rabbitry soon to include Rex and Harlequin breeds as well. The drought of 2022 and 2023 caused us to have to cut fencing which we are still working to repair in order to bring back our heritage hogs. Turkeys are raised only when pre-paid by customers. We are currently working to get bees again for local harvested honey in Houston County, Texas. All my poultry and livestock are free ranged and live on pasture supplemented with non-GMO feeds using no antibiotics or hormones. My goal is growing all the livestock in an environment outside where they can live normal lives eating bugs and grass, enjoying the sun and rain and through holistic management creating more sustainable pastureland for the future. Our main rule is please enjoy observing the ranch life but do not harass the animals. We live in the country please do not be too loud or cross outside of our ranch boundaries. My neighbors have lived here or moved here for their own peace and solitude as well... be respectful of that and enjoy your stay in the country. The ranch is located in the Piney Woods of eastern Texas and consists of 95.26 acres mostly in open grazing land with dispersed pine and oak trees in small groupings and along the fence lines. The ranch has a nearly a 1/4-acre upper pond and an elongated narrower lake that is close to 1 and a 1/2-acre below the upper pond to the west. There is a fenced in just over 1/2 acre area just north of the upper pond. The ponds gain water from natural spring flow and rainwater. Cook Creek runs through the entrance area off of FM 2022 on the northwest side of the property. The creek is year-round but normally is only a few inches deep but does have a few deeper pools of water. The ranch has about 65+ acres of gentle rolling hills of open pasture. The pastures consist of bahia, maxio and angusta ryegrasses, with mostly coastal grasses with some red and white clover mixed with natives. The ranch also has a diverse group of wildlife including but not limited to coyotes, white tail deer, roadrunners, racoons, possums, wild pigs and hawks of different species. We have spotted a golden eagle on the ranch within the last few months. We have a couple juvenile bald eagles on the north-northwest side of the property. Our large great blue heron is back from his migration south. Several kingfishers are nesting near the large lake. Several other migratory birds and waterfowl also traverse the ranch during their travels north and south through the area. The night sky is amazing! If nothing else brings you here. You must come enjoy the view of the milky way and thousands of stars visible in our south-east Texas night sky. Photos of the night sky have been added to the listing... do not miss them! I really enjoy just leaning back in a zero-gravity chair and getting to view the sky when not looking through my 8in Meade Coma-Free Smith-Cassegrain telescope. I often have the scope setup and visitors are more than welcome to come view the wonders that our night sky has to offer on most clear nights. Bring a fishing pole to see if you have any luck catching a bream, sunfish, small mouth or largemouth bass. We do have turtles as well. The biggest and meanest is the alligator snapping turtles best to just cut the line than try to take your hook or lure back from these guys.

The Dome Home

100%

(1)

15mi from Neches River National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · Lodging · Bullard, TX

Our DOME HOME is anything but ordinary with it's concrete dome construction. Located in a gated community at Lake Palestine in Bullard, Tx. This home features a private on property hot tub for relaxing, outdoor grill for cooking and outdoor fire pit for more outdoor enjoyment. Some come relax and enjoy this unique structure and it's beautiful back yard sunsets. 🛏 2 bedrooms (queen beds) 🛁 2 bath (1 tub/shower combo, 1 shower only) 📌 private on property hot tub 🔥 outdoor fire pit & seating ♠️ large outdoor games (corn hole, washers, large jenga, connect 4, dominos & more 🎣 fishing dock, community picnic area, playground, boat ramp & swimming pool available for guest use (some of these items are seasonal. We do not control the dates or hours) ✨️ Upon request we will accommodate and earlier check in if available to the best of our availability

The Ranch At Beulah

100%

(17)

18mi from Neches River National Wildlife Refuge · 4 sites · Lodging · Elkhart, TX

Gorgeous private property with plenty of trails to explore, creeks to swim in and even a one of a kind outdoor kitchen area with a pizza oven. Other amenities include a volleyball pit, tomahawk throwing range and a fishing pond. We are experienced hosts that make sure you have a perfect camping trip. We are not the cheapest but we aim to provide a premium experience through offering you pizza ingredients, firewood and anything else we can that would make your stay more enjoyable. We are always on call to help if anything goes wrong.

Mallard Haven

100%

(48)

23mi from Neches River National Wildlife Refuge · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Grapeland, TX

Mallard Haven Retreat is located off US 287, halfway between Palestine on the north and Crockett on the south. The retreat and associated activities are part of our overall program,which is to provide a refuge away from the frantic pace of daily life. We are somewhat sequestered from the outside world so as to provide immersion in the sights and sounds of nature. The setting is designed to be a place for relaxation and restoration of the soul and body through reading, journaling, quiet reflection, or simple camp activities such as hiking. Campers and visitors are expected to respect the land and natural features of the property as a gift from our Creator to be used and appreciated. We treat the property carefully and honorably, in acknowledgment we are the 'stewards' of the land.

Yellow Rose Canyon

93%

(14)

42mi from Neches River National Wildlife Refuge · 11 sites · Tents · Mount Enterprise, TX

We are the new owners of the property formerly known as Durango's Canyon aka "The Crater". Under this new ownership and management, Yellow Rose Canyon aims to build a positive community based culture through music, art, food, and family friendly outdoor events. We feature RV camping, tent camping, cabins, and a stage to be utilized for everything from Music Festivals to Movie Night under the Stars. We hope you'll join us for our next event. Country Music After Dark on Saturday, August 21st!Learn more about this land:Rustic Camping at the Yellow Rose Canyon. Good for tent camping or dry camping cars, trucks, and vans. Open fields, blue skies, and starry nights in the piney woods of East Texas. Restroom facilities available. No campfires allowed.

The Fabulous Bok Vegas, Texas

92%

(18)

17mi from Neches River National Wildlife Refuge · 58 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Palestine, TX

If you're yearning for a day filled with laughter, learning, and heartwarming encounters, the Fabulous Bok Vegas Petting Zoo (open by appointment - under construction), RV Park and Campground is a destination you shouldn't miss. Farm Day Passes are also available. Whether you're a local looking for a peaceful escape or a traveler seeking unique experiences, this charming sanctuary promises an unforgettable adventure. You can enjoy hiking, wildlife, interacting with farm animals at the Fabulous Bok Vegas Interactive Petting Zoo, tours, educational presentations, archery and more. The farm is close to fishing at Lake Palestine, First Monday in Canton and shopping in historical Palestine and Athens town squares. We are a family owned and operated 25-acre farm. We log and mill our own wood for construction projects, so expect to see stacks of limbs here and there as we continue to expand, especially during a burn ban.

Caddo Springs Farm

98%

(20)

13mi from Neches River National Wildlife Refuge · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Frankston, TX

72+/- acre hunter's/fisher's paradise/working farm on Caddo Creek, South of Tyler Texas. This property is the perfect combination of pasture and woods, loaded with beautiful mature trees, and has a large pond away from the highway for quiet and solitude. Activities: Pick pecans or blackberries, watch the wildlife, pet the sheep, go fishing...plenty of space for all your camping activities. We have 1 electrical hook up or spend the night under the stars near the pond in a tent. This is a disabled/veteran owned working regenerative farm. We have a RV for rent if that is your style. Message me for details.

Lindale, Coyote Camping/Yurt/Tiny

100%

(12)

46mi from Neches River National Wildlife Refuge · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Lindale, TX

I4 acres with spring-fed creek, just a few minutes from Lindale restaurants and supplies. For more info about the tiny house or yurt rentals, please inquire. It has extended acreage with multiple ecosystems. I just found a spring and will be doing livestock. There is yurt and tiny house for rent. There is an RV plug, electricity (extra fee), and a water hose. The site is close to downtown Lindale (5 minutes) restaurants and shopping. 15 minutes from tyler. It is country living but still close to city action. The lower parts of the property require 4-wheel drive, but the top has water and electricity, so any car is fine. As this is an outdoor area, there are bugs and critters. I have never had a problem, but this is notice that you agree to assume all liability and responsibility for your party by camping at this property. NEW: Starlink Satellite Internet! Unleased Pets are added fee. If they are in a structure other than your own, they must be in a crate, or we have a fenced dog park area.

The best camping in Neches River National Wildlife Refuge, TX guide

Overview

About

A camping trip near the Neches River National Wildlife Refuge sets you amid 7,000 acres of some of the finest bottomland hardwood forests in the nation. In the heart of the North American Central Flyway, this refuge serves as a crucial "interstate highway" for countless migrating birds, from ducks and geese to warblers and orioles. Camping near Neches River National Wildlife Refuge, you'll be perfectly positioned to witness the ebb and flow of millions of birds as they traverse this vital migration route. But the avian wonders are just the beginning. The refuge boasts a rich tapestry of biodiversity, from towering oaks, hickories, and maples to the playful antics of raccoons, ospreys, and river otters. Dive deeper, and you might even spot the elusive mink or the graceful wood stork. The Neches River itself, flowing serenely through the refuge, is a testament to Texas's rich history. Once a bountiful source for Native Americans and later a hub for Anglo American settlers, this river has witnessed centuries of hunting, fishing, and timber cutting. Today, the Neches River National Wildlife Refuge is prime for hiking, picnicking, bird-watching, or simply capturing the perfect photograph. So, gear up for a Neches River National Wildlife Refuge camping experience that promises a blend of nature's wonders and a deep dive into Texas's storied past.

When to go

The best time to visit the Neches River National Wildlife Refuge is during the cooler months, from late fall to early spring, when migratory birds flock to the area. Summer can be quite warm and humid, making outdoor activities less comfortable.

Know before you go

Check the refuge's official website or contact the office for the latest information on closures and safety advisories.
Remember to bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent to enhance your visit.
Be mindful of the wildlife; observe from a distance and do not disturb their natural behaviors.
Stay on designated trails to protect the habitat and for your own safety.
Note that the refuge is open from sunrise to sunset, so plan your visit accordingly.

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