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After working for endless hours throughout the week, a short trip is all you need to rejuvenate and refresh your mind and soul. It is also a perfect occasion to spend much-needed time with close friends and family. Campsites in Houston and its surrounding areas offer an idyllic blend of tranquility and adventure.
There are many camping sites in Houston that awaits you with open arms. If a respite is what you seek, weekends amidst the natural beauty should undoubtedly be your goal.
To make planning this getaway easier for you, we have compiled a list of campgrounds near Houston, Tx, that will not disappoint you. We are sure you will find the most ideal spot on this list. So get ready to hop into your cars and experience one of the most memorable times.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
30 minutes
Location
10650 SW Plaza Ct, Houston, TX 77074
How To Reach
From Downtown Houston, it should take you around 20 minutes to half an hour to reach the destination. We suggest you go by car. If you cannot manage a vehicle, you can use public transport to reach AllStar RV resort. It will be a slightly longer journey of around one and a half hours. You can get off at West Bellfort P&R; the resort is about a 4-minute driving distance from here.
Activities To Do
Swimming, Remote Working, Workout
The resort’s highlight is the vast swimming pool and the breezy weather. It is best for a one-day escape, or if you want to spend more time, it can turn into your remote workplace. They offer both short and long-term stays. They are also pet-friendly, so you can have fun in the lush green garden with your pet. They also have a free pet wash facility for your furballs.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
35 minutes
Location
14140 Garrett Rd, Houston, TX 77044
How To Reach
Driving is the most suitable mode of transportation to reach Sheldon Lake State Park.
Activities To Do
Hiking, Nature Walking, Paddling
Home to bountiful nature, Sheldon Lake State Park is where calmness and serenity await. You may stay on the bank, soaking in the beauty of the lake that is spread as far as your eyes can see. Or, you can get to the lake’s center on a boat to catch big fish. You can fish without a license inside the premise.
The Pond Loop Trail leads you past reclaimed hatchery ponds. Next, you will witness coastal ecosystems by hiking along the Prairie Trail and Wetland Loop. You can even paddle around Sheldon Lake on your own in a canoe. Alternatively, you can take a stroll in nature and observe the wildlife. Finally, you can get onto the John Jacob Observation Tower, which offers 360-degree views of the beautiful park, the Houston cityscape, and the famous San Jacinto Monument.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
30 minutes (can vary)
Location
The campsite can be held at multiple locations around Downtown Houston (or far). Traveling time varies with the location.
How To Reach
Driving would be a more feasible option to reach the destination that this adventure company chooses for you.
Activities To Do
Depends on your taste and preferences
Escape the Pavement is not a campsite but an adventure provider that can help you find the perfect and most secluded spots in and around Houston. Whether you are looking for a day trip, an overnight stay, or a longer trip, they have something for everyone. They even help you learn how to pitch your own tent!
Now, depending on the location (that will primarily be selected based on your preferences), that list of activities can vary. But in general, you will get several opportunities to observe and experience wildlife from up close. You may visit the park, river, lake or a forest, it is your choice at the end of the day. You will be given ample chances to be amazed at how incredible the wildlife is outside the concrete jungle you live in. In addition, it can offer the best ways to experience camping close to Houston (or far; however you want), all tailored as per your taste.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
30 minutes
Location
7979 N Eldridge Pkwy, Houston, TX 77041
How To Reach
Taking a car is the easiest option. Alternatively, you can take public transport to Northwest Station Park & Ride. After that, there is an 8-minute driving distance, and you can easily find/book a cab or a taxi to cover that distance.
Activities To Do
Amusement Park Rides, Open-Air Shopping, Special Events
If you wish to meet your inner child or give your little one the best time of their life, Trader’s Village is an absolute delight. You can take rides in an amusement park or spend your time watching special events, which could be performances by the locals.
This spot is exciting, adventurous, and eye candy for people who like to shop for unique items like clothes, furniture, home decor, toys, etc. All this cannot be covered in one day. In fact, you wouldn’t want to leave this place once you reach it. Thankfully, they have an RV park for you to stay in. This is undoubtedly a perfect place to add a little excitement to your boring everyday life.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
50 minutes
Location
21901 FM 762 Rd, Needville, TX 77461
How To Reach
To get to Brazos Bend State Park, the best transportation option is to take your car.
Activities To Do
Wildlife Watching, Hiking, Biking
There are many camping sites around Houston, but the one that lets you peacefully be in the arms of nature and embrace your adventurous soul is the Brazos Bend, State Park. Covering around 4800 acres of land, Brazos Bend State Park is owned and managed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
The park is home to a broad range of plants and animals. It is huge, so you can set up your camp here and enjoy stargazing with a campfire keeping you warm. Activities you can partake in while you are here include fishing, hiking, bike trails, and horseback riding. It will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience for you.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
1 hour 15 minutes
Location
14901 FM 3005, Galveston, TX 77554
How To Reach
The cheapest option to reach Galveston Island State Park would be by car. Alternatively, you take a bus, get off at Congress St @ La Branch St, and then hire a taxi.
Activities To Do
Fishing, Paddling
Every traveler’s desire is to be able to camp on a beach and spend their night under the glittering starry sky. Here’s where you can make that fantasy a reality. This camping ground is nothing less than paradise on earth for those looking for a spot to go fishing, swimming, or exciting hiking and biking paths, among other things.
There are also many beautiful birds to be seen on the site. It’s the best place to have a good time near the seaside while also witnessing stunning biodiversity.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
56 minutes
Location
34843 Betka Rd, Waller, TX 77484
How To Reach
The site has good connectivity by road. Traveling by car is the best option for you.
Activities To Do
Swimming, Playing Mini Golf, Riding The Train
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Waller is one of the most fun-filled franchises spread across the States and Canada. They have an endless amount of activities for you and your little one.
There’s a mini-golf course, a water park with multiple rides, a sports complex where you can play volleyball, basketball, and other sports, a jumping pillow, and a ninja warrior course, among other things. As we said, it’s packed with fun and exciting activities. There’s so much to do that covering it all up in one day is impossible. They also offer a variety of lodging alternatives, including tents, RV parks, and more, so you don’t necessarily have to finish it all in one day. This might be one of the best places to camp near Houston for you and your family to play and have fun.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
55 minutes
Location
Park Rd 38, San Felipe, TX 77473
How To Reach
It’s best to take the road as the location is well connected. For you, a car is the easiest alternative.
Activities To Do
Explore Historic Sites, Camping
Stephen F Austin State Park is one of its kind with calm surroundings, beautiful wildlife, and vast picnic ground. The campground is refreshing and can accommodate large groups as well.
While staying in the company of nature, there are several activities available for you to enjoy. Five kilometers of hiking and bike routes go through the upland marsh and along the riverside. San Felipe de Austin State Historic Site and other historic sites in the area are worth exploring. You may also pick up trash and volunteer to help keep the environment clean.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
45 minutes
Location
25840 FM 1485 Rd, New Caney, TX 77357
How To Reach
Travel by car is recommended.
Activities To Do
Mountain Biking, Canoeing, Bird Watching
Spanning over 4700 acres, Lake Houston Wilderness Park is the perfect spot for a short vacation. This park has become a favorite among the locals and tourists who love adventures and are passionate about fitness and the environment.
With over 20 miles of hiking, bicycling, and horseback trails, you will find yourself immersed in the beauty of mother nature. This area is home to some of the most magnificent bird species, so do not forget to carry your binoculars. You can have a nice break from your busy life in this peaceful environment.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
1 hour 5 minutes
Location
301 FM 2025 Rd, Coldspring, TX 77331
How To Reach
The best way to reach here is by car.
Activities To Do
Picnicking, Fishing, Hiking
If you are looking for a spot where you can spend some time with your extended family, Double Lake Recreation Area is your answer. Group and family camping units, picnicking, and beaches are available here. In addition, it offers beautiful sceneries with hardwood and pine forests lining the landscape.
The 23-acre Double Lake surrounds the campsite. You can soak in the beauty of the entire lake from a paddleboat. Bike trails, hiking, and swimming are all adventurous activities you can be a part of when you visit this location. It certainly offers an ideal balance of thrill and tranquility.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
1 hour 5 minutes
Location
Fm 1375 West, New Waverly, TX 77358
How To Reach
Traveling to this spot by car is the only option.
Activities To Do
Hunting, Biking, Bird Watching, Fishing
Cagle Recreation Area is a campsite located on the bank of Lake Conroe. Offering a pleasant atmosphere, Cagle Recreation Area is famous for its exciting activities, including boating, bike trails, hiking, and more. If you want to add more action and adventure to your trip, you can certainly try the water sports here. Additionally, it is perfect for camping at any time of the year, so all you have to do is pack a bag and drive to the spot.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
1 hour 30 minutes
Location
300 State Park Rd, Livingston, TX 77351
How To Reach
The most pocket-friendly option is to take your car. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Livingston and then hire a cab to reach the park.
Activities To Do
Boating, Fishing, Swimming
Being the largest lake in town, Livingston is home to a large variety of fish species, making this spot heaven on earth for fishing enthusiasts. Catfish is a commonly caught meal for those who fish here.
Apart from that, you can embark on different trails for biking and hiking. You can also take a swim in the lake to beat the heat.
Several birds can be seen on the shore, not just fishes. Often, you can only hear the waves and birds chirping sounds, making it a peaceful spot. You can indulge in some sports or just stay on the shore, observe nature, and watch the birds.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
1 hour 40 minutes
Location
5211 Main St, Sheridan, TX 77475
How To Reach
You can reach there by car. By road is the easiest and the cheapest option whether you rent one or drive your own.
Activities To Do
Water Park, Swimming, Camping
As the name suggests, the Splashway is a vast water park with exciting rides, slides, and swimming pools. It is the perfect place to have fun with your friends and family.
They offer multiple lodging options, including an RV site, cottages, and tents. You can pitch your tent on their spacious campground, befriend others like you, and relish the delicious food they serve on-site.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
1 hour 40 minutes
Location
19335 TX-87, Port Arthur, TX 77640
How To Reach
Cheapest and the quickest way is by car.
Activities To Do
Fishing, Horseback Riding, Paddling
Camping next to the sea sounds dreamy, and Sea Rim State Park is nothing less than a dream. This beautiful shore offers stunning sea views that are spread as far as your eyes can see. You also have an opportunity to set your camp on the shore and just lose yourself in the serenity of mother earth.
The best thing about this spot is that while it is popular and usually crowded, you will still find a place to pitch your tent because of how spacious this land is. You can watch the sun change from shades of yellow to hues of orange as it sets, or you can also hear birds chirping and sometimes witness alligators. The place has a lovely tranquil ambiance to just sit back and rejuvenate from all the week’s exhaustion.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
1 hour 40 minutes
Location
8854 Park Road 74, Lumberton, TX 77657
How To Reach
Travel by car to reach faster.
Activities To Do
Fishing, Paddling
Because the region is so densely vegetated, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to observe something new, whether it’s a new plant or animal. An alligator can also be seen here, so make sure you are aware and alert.
When talking about what you can do here, you may swim, fish, and go on a biking or trekking adventure. Other attractions include the Sabine Pass Battleground State Historic Site, where you can explore and embrace your inner Indiana Jones.
Driving Distance From Downtown Houston
1 hour 10 minutes
Location
TX-P40, Huntsville, TX 77340
How To Reach
The park is well connected by road, so traveling by car is the more suitable option.
Activities To Do
Geocaching, Trekking, Paddling
Spread over around 210 acres of land and surrounded by pine trees and wildflowers, Huntsville State Park certainly offers a sight. You can explore this spot while on your biking tour or on your hike on one of the several trails that it offers.
You may also swim, fish, or paddle in the water body. There are alligators in the region as well. You might get a chance to see some rare birds too.
Camping in Houston or nearby areas is as magical as it can get. From swimming to fishing, biking, and hiking, these spots are filled with activities that are considered ideal for getting refreshed and revitalized.
We hope you were able to find the ideal place for camping near Houston. So pack your bags and escape from your busy and monotonous life into a fun, exciting, adventure, and peaceful weekend.
Where can I camp for free in Houston?
Privately owned and operated parks won’t have free camps. However, state-managed parks and wildlife areas are accessible to camp. All the regions will have specific rules that you will comply with. Make sure you check the rules and regulations before you go camping.
Where can I set up a tent in Houston?
You can set up a tent in any campground in Houston. Some are paid, and some are free. You may get a chance to camp on the shore, in the park, or next to a lake.
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