The best camping near Village Creek State Park

Set at the edge of Big Thicket, the park is home to Village Creek, one of the few free-flowing creeks in Texas and a popular spot for flat-water canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and fishing. Hike or mountain bike eight miles of trails, including some suitable for young kids and others that cut through a diverse terrain of swamps, wetlands, forests, and savannahs. Overnight options include primitive walk-in campsites, campsites with electric and water hookups, a group campsite, and a cabin. Don’t miss the excellent nature center and its ranger-led programs that include night hikes and stargazing. 

• Best for tent campers and water access: Closest to the creek, the Creekside Walk-in Campground offers 15 sites with tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings.
• Best for RVs: The Hilltop Campground has 25 sites with electric and water hookups.
• Best for groups: The Village Creek Sponsored Youth Group Campground offers space for up to 50.

1. For peak season stays, plan to make a reservation as soon as you know your dates. The cabin and campsites can be reserved up to five months in advance and the group camp up to 12 months in advance. 
2. If your plans are flexible, try to visit the year-round park during the week, during non-holiday periods, or in winter to escape the crowds.
3. If you don’t have a reservation, arrive at the park first thing in the morning to grab any potential unreserved site.

The park is busiest from February to September—spring and fall are the best times to see migratory birds. Heavy rains can cause the Village Creek to severely flood, something that regularly occurs every few years.

• The park is part of the Village Creek Paddling Trail. Bring your own canoe or kayak, or rent from local outfitters and guide services. 
• Fishing licenses are not required to fish from shore.
• Neither glass nor pets are permitted in the canoe launch and fishing area, where kids must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• The cabin, group picnic pavilion, and several campsites, showers, and restrooms at the Hilltop Campground are wheelchair-accessible.
• Bring your binoculars. The park is home to more than 200 bird species—and alligators.
• Fires are only permitted in provided fire rings. Bring your firewood or purchase from the park.