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Prairie Branch Campground

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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 way to find picnic tables lining Lake Raven or rent a boat and head out for a day on the water. All sites are equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, and if hygiene is your thing (we won’t judge), many nearby restrooms and showers are in short walking distance.

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4 ratings · 2 reviews

Kelsie L.recommends

November 24, 2017

Easy access to restrooms and along the water so you can go for a dip and relax or check out the Lonestar Trail and learn some history of the area. Well kept restrooms but a busy campground in summer.

Texas V.

January 22, 2015

We camped at Huntsville in the dead of winter and were the only campers at the entire park! It was a bit surreal and such a beautiful experience. We were able to bundle up and canoe Lake Raven not having to worry about alligators (which there are warning signs everywhere in the park) and being able to relax in the stillness and quietness of the Piney Woods.

Other campgrounds in Huntsville State Park

100%

(3)

Coloneh Campground

60 sites · RVs, Tents In Prairie Branch Campground

Raven Hill Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents In Prairie Branch Campground

from

$25

/ night

Your guide to camping in Prairie Branch Campground

Overview

Biking

Hit up Huntsville State Park for 21 miles of scenic riding trails through ancient East Texas piney woods. The Triple C Trail is your longest route at 8.5 miles, but if you’re in for a longer ride, you can easily combine multiple trails within the park. The 6.8 mile Chinquapin Trail, which circles the entire lake, meets Triple C near the amphitheatre and nature center. You’ll find parking there, as well!

Boating

For those with leisure in mind, boating on Raven Lake in Huntsville State Park is the ideal situation. Motorized boats are permitted on the 210-acre basin, but be sure to keep it to idle speeds. Along with summer swimmers, look out for the local alligators that make Raven Lake’s waters their home! You can read the alligator safety tips document here.

Fishing

Huntsville State Park has everything you need and more to enjoy a relaxing weekend of fishing at Raven Lake. From the boat ramp to the fishing piers to the cleaning stations, you’re completely set up. And as you fish for bass, catfish, and crappie, be on the lookout for alligators! If you want more information on alligator safety, check out these tips.

Hiking

Whether you’re in for an epic journey or casual hike, the trails at Huntsville State Park are the perfect getaway. Choose from quick, under-two-mile trails, such as the Prairie Branch Loop, or longer routes like Chinquapin Trail at 6.8 miles. The Triple Trail clocks in at 8.5 miles and takes approximately four hours to complete. It even has a primitive campsite for those who need an overnight backpacking trip to escape city life!

Horseback riding

The multi-use trails at Huntsville State Park are excellent for equestrian use because of their lengthy mileage and beautiful scenery. It’s easy to get a full day’s worth of riding in by combining the Triple C Trail and Chinquapin Trail, which total at 15.3 miles. But for a quick jaunt, the shady trees of the Dogwood Trail make for a refreshing natural experience.

Paddling

The calm waters and shady trees a Huntsville State Park make for a perfect weekend of kayaking and canoeing. Raven Lake has 210 acres to explore by paddle and even offers rentals for those who don’t have their own floatation devices. A provided boat ramp serves as an ideal put-in, so there’s no need to scout your own. And when you’re out relaxing in the summer sun, keep an eye out for the alligators who live within the park. Alligator safety tips are available to touch up your local knowledge.

Swimming

Take a refreshing dip in Rave Lake during those never-ending dog days of summer. The water’s cool, the waves are minimal, and the sun is almost always shining. The designated swimming area is open daily and year-round from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., but has no lifeguard on duty, so jump in at your own risk.

Wildlife watching

Spend a few days in Huntsville State Park and you’re sure to spot a few of the lesser-seen wildlife species of the south. The bald eagle and alligator both make their home within the park, so keep your eyes peeled to both land and sea for a sighting. Over 250 bird species have been spotted, as well, so maybe bring those binoculars along, too!