Stubblefield Lake Campground

Just 50 miles south of Houston, Sam Houston National Forest is a great place to escape into the wilderness for mountain biking. Test your skills on 85 miles of multiple-use trails that offer up a wide array of riding conditions. Trails are closed in certain weather conditions, so call the rangers office to check on trail status before you visit.

Sharpen your water sport, fishing, and sailing skills on Lake Conroe and Lake Livingston at Sam Houston National Forest. If you don’t have your own boat, rent a canoe or paddleboat at the Double Lake concession stand. This lake tends to be a bit calmer, as it only permits small electric motors. Three boat ramps are available at Lake Conroe, and six at Lake Livingston.

If fishing is your thing, Sam Houston National Forest is your place. Decide whether you want to test your skills on the 82,600-acre Lake Livingston or the 22,000-acre Lake Conroe. Both lakes can be fished year-round and are known for black bass. A boat slip and numerous boat ramps make getting into the water here a breeze. You can also head over to Double Lake to fish for bass, catfish, and bream.

Long and winding trails are waiting for you at Sam Houston National Forest! Follow aluminum trail markers to explore a section of the 128-mile Lone Star Hiking Trail, which you can also camp along outside of hunting season. On your walk, you’re likely to see a variety of plants, trees, and wildlife, along with flowing rivers, creeks, streams, and lakes. Potable water can be found on this trail at the Double Lake and Stubblefield recreation areas. The trail is most frequently hiked in winter and spring, but you're welcome to give it a try at any time throughout the year. If you decide to hike in deer hunting season (November or December), be sure to wear very visible clothing.

There’s nothing like venturing through the wilderness on horseback. Bring your horse to Sam Houston National Forest to explore the park’s 85 miles of multi-use trails. Keep an eye out for Off-Highway Vehicles, which also share the trail. Trails may close under certain conditions, so contact the Ranger’s Office before visiting.

Have some fun on your Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) amidst the unique and varied terrain of Sam Houston National Forest. The multi-use trail here is the only trail open to OHVs among any Texas National Forest. Trails may close under certain conditions, so contact the Ranger’s Office to check the status before visiting.

Take a dip in the swimming area at Double Lake Recreation Area. Afterward, you can warm up in the sun on the beach. With picnicking facilities, a concession, bathhouse, and boat rentals, this area is perfect for a gathering of family or friends.

Sam Houston National Forest is teeming with wildlife. Deer are popular here, as are squirrels, quail, fish, and ducks. In the winter months, you may see an endangered bald eagle soaring above the lake or perched in a tall pine tree along the water’s edge. Red-cockaded woodpeckers, also endangered, are frequently spotted here as well. Listen up for their high-pitched and squeaky call, which can be heard from a fair distance away. Other birds around include screech owls, bluebirds, and wood ducks. This area is also home to honey bees.