Camping at Sam Rayburn Reservoir

Q: What are the popular activities at Sam Rayburn Reservoir?

At Sam Rayburn Reservoir , you can swim, sail, fish, paddle, and enjoy high-octane water sports. The lake is also prized for its largemouth bass. The reservoir is located at the heart of the Pine y Woods in Texas .

Q: What are the recreational opportunities near Sam Rayburn Reservoir?

Near Sam Rayburn Reservoir , you can enjoy horseback riding at Ebenezer Park, play golf at Rayburn Country Resort, and explore miles of hiking and horseback riding trails in the Davy Crockett National Forest. The dense woodlands of the Sabine National Forest also lead the way to the Toledo Bend Reservoir on the state lines of Texas and Louisiana .

Texas' biggest lake is central for boating, beach-hopping, and bass fishing.

94% (112 reviews)

United States
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Texas
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Sam Rayburn Reservoir

94% (112 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Sam Rayburn Reservoir

Community favorites in and near Sam Rayburn Reservoir

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in and near Sam Rayburn Reservoir

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Martin Dies Campground

176 sites · RVs, Tents In Martin Dies, Jr. State Park

Caney Creek Campground

26 sites · RVs, Tents In Angelina National Forest

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(2)

North Toledo Bend Campground

73 sites · RVs, Tents In North Toledo Bend State Park

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(1)

South Toledo Bend Campground

79 sites · RVs, Tents In South Toledo Bend State Park

Red Hills Lake Campground

26 sites · RVs, Tents In Sabine National Forest

Willow Oak Campground

15 sites In Sabine National Forest

Indian Mounds Campground

37 sites · RVs, Tents In Sabine National Forest

Lakeview Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Sabine National Forest

Ragtown Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Sabine National Forest

90%

(5)

Big Thicket Backcountry

1 site In Big Thicket National Preserve

12 top campgrounds in Sam Rayburn Reservoir

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(125)

Hilleetla

2 sites · Tents80 acres · Colmesneil , TX

Greetings from Hilleetla! This beautiful property with big rolling hills, big trees, spring water, creeks and lakes lies deep within the Big Thicket, behind the Pine Curtain. Originally a dairy farm, with the old barn and milk bottles intact, then a miniature pony farm with a miniature stable to match, and later a vacation home for some quasi-urbanites. Now our home, our muse, and our place of refuge. A place to share with friends and family and those seeking an authentic experience, here, on the ground. A working farm, a plant nursery, a garden, our forest farm, and our center for creativity, love, life and design. As a landscape architect (Alissa), designer and horticulturalist (David), we've found our match here, at what we now call Hilleetla. Join us on a Full Moon or New Moon (Star Gazing!) and get 15% off!

95%

(10)

THRIVE family camp and RV

7 sites · Lodging, Tents30 acres · Woodville, TX

Located near Lake Tejas or Steinhagen Reservoir travel 2.9 acres into a wooded hunting ground and enjoy a weekend of natures beauty. When you’re done setting up camp, hike the forest trails enjoy some vollyball with your friends and picnic under the shade of the trees. Our sites does have water access, an outhouse with a flushing toilet. Access to a rec area with volley ball. We also rent tents upon request. We have a 10 person tent for $50 a large 4-5 person tent with screened in area for $30. We offer a move in the woods package as well. A projector/screen setup and you bring a movie or rent one from us for $1 per title.

Booked 1 time

Happy Hippo Hilltop

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Burkeville, TX

Discover our charming 5-acre hideaway, tucked away in the piney woods of Deep East Texas. Conveniently located, we are approximately 15 minutes away from the boat launches at Toledo Bend Lake, 30 minutes from Lake Sam Rayburn, and just 9 minutes from one of the largest ATV parks in Texas—the Sabine ATV Park ranked #2 by offroadingpro.com. Additionally, we have our very own Family Dollar and gas station less than a mile away that can meet most of your basic needs. That being said the nearest proper grocery store or hardware store is 20 to 30 minutes away. Our power offering is a 50amp plug so bring your adapter if you are looking to utilize power during your stay.

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(1)

Eden Ranch

7 sites · Lodging, Tents21 acres · Livingston, TX

Eden Ranch is first and foremost a naturist retreat. Located on 21 private and secluded acres, we have room for both tent campers and RVers with a full bathhouse that includes a hot tub, outdoor shower, sink area and toilet facilities. There are horses, cows, potbelly pigs, rabbits, chickens, dogs and cats if your family loves animals. There is also an above ground pool for when the weather is warmer. Pitch a tent, sit by the campfire, take a hike in the woods, relax in the hammock, read a book, soak in the hot tub or do nothing at all...the choice is up to you. Nearby are antique shops, fishing on Lake Livingston or the Trinity River, hike or bike ride the Sam Houston National Forest trails or play pool or go bowling in town. Naskila Casino is only 8 miles to the east of us on the Alabama Coushata Indian Tribe Reservation. If you're looking for nothing to do but relax or if you're looking for lots of fun and activity we've got easy access to both. What makes Eden Ranch unique is that all of our activities here on the ranch are clothing optional / naturist friendly. In fact, the hot tub and pool are nude only...no swimsuits allowed. On the warmer days most of the host family will be enjoying the property as God intended...naked and not ashamed as well. If nudity offends you, this is not the place to visit. We will not allow or condone any inappropriate or illegal activity anywhere on the ranch. Any violation of this policy will result in immediate escort off the property.

Mid Lake Campground

38 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Milam, TX

RV Park On Toledo bend Reservoir Nestled on Toledo Bend Lake, one of the best fishing lakes in the south, Mid Lake RV Campground offers an RV campground, spacious RV pads, lakefront Cabin rentals, 4-bedroom house overlooking the lake, and more. With a breathtaking view of Toledo Bend Lake, our Toledo Bend RV Park in Hemphill, Texas, will give you one of the best RV camping experiences in the area. Whether your pleasure is fishing, camping, hunting, or just relaxing, you will find it with us! Book a stay today and enjoy our picturesque setting on Toledo Bend Lake and Palo Gaucho Bayou, surrounded by Sabine National Forest.

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(1)

Cashrock Farm and RV

9 sites · RVs50 acres · Lufkin, TX

Cashrock Farm and RV Park features an extremely quiet and well maintained “mini-mansion” two bedroom cottage and RV parking spots on 55 acres with pine and oak trees sprinkled about, hay fields, two ponds and plenty of room for parking, walking, biking and horses. Cashrock is located approximately 8 miles from two towns, Lufkin and Diboll Texas, 7 miles frm Angelina Community College, close to nearby Nacogdoches (the oldest town in Texas) and only 1 1/2 to two hours from Houston or Galveston, NASA and the Gulf of Mexico (to the south) or Tyler and Longview (to the north). If you like bass fishing, Cashrock is only 20 minutes from the Lake Sam Rayburn Resevoir. With over 55 acres to roam and explore, abundant parking space accomodates a wide variety of event attendance.Events such as Weddings, Large picnics, corporate getaways, retreats or celebrations could be hosted “on the farm,” for an additional fee. The spaces can easily accommodate gatherings of 25 or more attendees. It’s a great venue for wedding and event photography sessions, too!

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(4)

Red Dirt Retreat

20 sites · RVs21 acres · Garrison, TX

Wake up in the shade of an oak tree casting shadows over your view of the pasture and pond. All the country charm of farm life with all the simplicity of RV living! Watch the cows graze and enjoy the turtles sunbathing all within 10 minutes of downtown Nacogdoches! Clean, quiet & so convenient to everything! Make our ranch your home, or visit on your way through Deep East Texas. We'll be pleased to call you "neighbor" for as long as you want to stay. Have the best of all worlds! Low maintenance farm living, close to everything! When you make 16098 your address, you enjoy the farm, but you don't do any of the work! See the new baby calves skipping and frolicking in the pasture, enjoy the chickens free ranging near the pond, play flashlight tag with the armadillos and bring your own pets as long as they are on the leash.

Bigfoot Kingtown RV Park

31 sites · RVs3 acres · Nacogdoches, TX

Welcome to Kingtown RV Park, where convenience meets comfort in the heart of Nacogdoches! Conveniently located at the Kingtown boat ramp for direct access to the Angelina River and Lake Sam Rayburn. Our park offers a serene and welcoming environment for RV enthusiasts and travelers alike. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-packed getaway, Kingtown RV Park is the perfect spot for you. The ease of access to the water, and beautiful surroundings will ensure an unforgettable stay.

The Old Water Well Retreat

20 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Center, TX

Old Water Well Retreat – Off-Grid, Eco-Friendly Camping in Shelby County, Texas Welcome to Old Water Well Retreat, a secluded off-grid escape where nature is left wild, the land is untouched, and campers can experience Texas as it was meant to be—pure, peaceful, and full of history. Nestled in the heart of East Texas, this free-range, primitive campground invites self-sufficient adventurers, overlanders, and RV travelers to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with the great outdoors. This is a low-impact, eco-friendly camping experience—no power, no water, no amenities—just you, the land, and the stars. Pack in what you need, pack out what you bring, and leave only footprints behind. What to Expect at Old Water Well Retreat Remote & Peaceful – Surrounded by towering pines and quiet country roads, this is the perfect spot for solitude seekers and outdoor lovers. Rustic & Historic Charm – While a historic old homestead and water well remain on-site, they are off-limits for safety and preservation. Unfiltered Nature – Wake up to birdsong, enjoy golden sunsets, and sleep under a breathtaking Texas night sky. Self-Sufficient Camping – Bring your own water, power, and essentials for a true off-grid adventure. Who Should Camp Here? ✔️ Off-grid campers & overlanders who thrive on self-sufficiency. ✔️ Eco-conscious travelers looking for a leave-no-trace experience. ✔️ Nature lovers seeking a quiet, rustic retreat. ✔️ RV campers who can boondock without hookups. Know Before You Go: 🚫 No power, no water, no hookups – bring everything you need. 🚗 Accessible via dirt roads – high clearance vehicles recommended after rain. 🐕 Pets welcome – keep them leashed and respectful of the land. 🔥 Campfires allowed (check local burn bans, bring local firewood). ♻️ Pack in, pack out – Leave no trace and take all trash with you. ⚠️ Historic homestead and Well are OFF-LIMITS – For safety and preservation, please admire from a distance. If you crave wide-open spaces, fresh air, and a break from modern distractions, Old Water Well Retreat is waiting for you. Book your stay today and enjoy the land as it was meant to be—wild, free, and full of history.

Hogs Hollow Homestead LLC

1 site · Lodging27 acres · Newton, TX

Sleep in a Tree tent and watch the stars and hear the night life. In the morning wake up to the birds chirping. Tree tent is surrounded by pine trees, oaks, cedars and magnolias. Enjoy a cool down at Vinnie's Beach (Creek) or in the cool water of the spring. Walk the primitive trails and explore what the forest has to offer. You can see how we make compost (if available take a bag home with you, which you have dug up yourself) Learn about worm farming, compost toilet, flushable vermicomposting toilet and many more homesteading activities if you want to explore them. If you want to explore the possibility of camping regularly and don't want to spend the money on buying equipment, Hogs Hollow Homestead is the place for you. Your tent will be set up for you and all camping equipment could be provided for you in order to make your camping experience enjoyable. Make this camping not just a camping experience but learning about what nature has to offer you. Hot coffee or tea will be brought to you to enjoy before starting your day. To add to your experience, we offer Clay or Essential oil Massages using clay from the property (at extra cost).

Booked 1 time

Fishin’ Time RV Park

20 sites · RVs3 acres · Hemphill, TX

Located in Hemphill Tx just 2 miles from the boat ramp on Lake Toledo Bend deep in the Piney Woods of East Texas. It makes for the perfect camping spot for fishing or even hunting the Sabine National Forrest. Our RV Park is full of nature, peaceful surroundings and plenty of oak shade trees. We are pet friendly and free WiFi!

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Busters Private RV Park

6 sites · RVs16 acres · Center, TX

Bland Lake Hideaway the home of Buster's Private RV Park is a quiet place to camp and relax!Learn more about this land:We are located just North of San Augustine Tx. 15 miles from Sam Rayburn and Toledo Bend, 2 of the best Lakes in Texas. A quiet place to park and camp and enjoy the Pineywoods of East Texas. Bland Lake Hideaway is the home of Buster's Private RV Park. A great place to stay for work or play. Come visit East Texas and see what we are talking about.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Martin Dies, Jr. State Park

Jasper, Texas

Angelina National Forest

Broaddus, Texas

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North Toledo Bend State Park

Zwolle, Louisiana

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South Toledo Bend State Park

Louisiana

Sabine National Forest

Milam, Texas

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Big Thicket National Preserve

Warren, Texas

Other options in and near Sam Rayburn Reservoir

Whispering Creek RV Park

20 sites · Lodging, RVs1 acre · Newton, TX

Discover the charm of Whispering Creek Lodging & RV Park, a unique destination in Newton, Texas, where family-owned hospitality meets modern amenities. Our park is designed to cater to all your lodging needs, offering a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. We feature 28 full hookup RV sites, ideal for travelers seeking a home away from home. For those preferring indoor accommodations, we provide 10 cozy guest rooms that ensure a restful stay. Our clubhouse is available for meetings and gatherings, making it an excellent choice for both leisure and business. Enjoy our inviting swimming pool, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring the beautiful surroundings. Open year-round, Whispering Creek Lodging & RV Park is managed on-site by our dedicated team, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all guests. Come experience the tranquility and warmth that sets us apart from the rest!

Explore camping beyond Sam Rayburn ReservoirDiscover 200+ magical spots to camp in Texas

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Camping at Sam Rayburn Reservoir guide

Overview

Of all 7,000-plus lakes in the Lone Star State, Sam Rayburn Reservoir is the largest that lies entirely within Texan borders. Proving that everything really is bigger in Texas, this gigantic lake has 114,5000 acres of water to swim, sail, fish, paddle, or get your adrenaline fix with high-octane water sports; all hemmed in by three sprawling national forests at the heart of the Piney Woods. Along with endless opportunities for boating and fishing—Sam Rayburn Lake is prized for its largemouth bass—there’s a wide choice of campgrounds and cabins, many of which stay open year-round.

Where to go

North Shore

Enveloped in the pine woods of the Angelina National Forest, the north shore of Sam Rayburn Reservoir is dotted with lakefront parks, marinas, and picnic areas. There are boat ramps available at Harvey Creek and Bayou Boat Launch, and camping at Rayburn Park, Powell Park, and Townsend Recreation Area.

South Shore

The south side of the lake is where you’ll find some of the most popular hikes of the Angelina National Forest, including the Sawmill Hiking Trail and the Boykin Lakeside Trail. Camp at the Caney Creek and Sandy Creek recreation areas, enjoy horseback riding at Ebenezer Park, or play a game of golf at Rayburn Country Resort. Further west, the Davy Crockett National Forest has miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, and self-sufficient campers can enjoy dispersed camping throughout the NF lands.

East Shore

The small villages of Pineland, Brookeland, and Browndell sit along the eastern shore of Sam Rayburn, where you’ll find peaceful campgrounds and family-friendly RV resorts. Further east, the dense woodlands of the Sabine National Forest lead the way to the Toledo Bend Reservoir on the state lines of Texas and Louisiana. If you’re looking for a challenge, the 26.9-mile “Trail between the lakes” will take you from the shores of Sam Rayburn all the way to Toledo Bend.

West Shore

The western shore of Sam Rayburn Reservoir is the least developed and the spot to escape the crowds. Cruise out to explore the tranquil waters where the reservoir meets the Angelina River, launch your boat from the public launch at Marion Ferry Park, or enjoy backcountry camping in the northernmost reaches of the Angelina National Forest.

Frequently Asked Questions

At Sam Rayburn Reservoir, you can swim, sail, fish, paddle, and enjoy high-octane water sports. The lake is also prized for its largemouth bass. The reservoir is located at the heart of the Piney Woods in Texas.

What are the options for camping near Sam Rayburn Reservoir?

You can camp at Rayburn Park, Powell Park, and Townsend Recreation Area on the north shore of Sam Rayburn Reservoir. There are also campgrounds and family-friendly RV resorts in the small villages of Pineland, Brookeland, and Browndell along the eastern shore. You can also explore different options for camping near Sam Rayburn Reservoir on Hipcamp.

What are the amenities available at Sam Rayburn Reservoir?

Sam Rayburn Reservoir offers a wide choice of campgrounds and cabins, many of which stay open year-round. There are also boat ramps available at Harvey Creek and Bayou Boat Launch, as well as picnic areas, marinas, and hiking trails. The reservoir is surrounded by three sprawling national forests at the heart of the Piney Woods in Texas.

What are the recreational opportunities near Sam Rayburn Reservoir?

Near Sam Rayburn Reservoir, you can enjoy horseback riding at Ebenezer Park, play golf at Rayburn Country Resort, and explore miles of hiking and horseback riding trails in the Davy Crockett National Forest. The dense woodlands of the Sabine National Forest also lead the way to the Toledo Bend Reservoir on the state lines of Texas and Louisiana.