Formerly a state-run park, Lake Houston Wilderness Park is now operated by the city of Houston and is the only park in the city system that allows overnight camping. The park is meant to provide interaction with the nature found in the East Texas woods, and it has appeal for visitors of all ages. Camping here, however, is not for everyone because campsites are all walk-in (very short hikes), and full restroom/shower facilities are not centrally located. If you're willing to pack in for a night at Lake Houston, you will be rewarded with ranger-guided night tours of the forest.
Lake Houston Wilderness Park
22031 Baptist Encampment Road
New Caney, TX 77357
281-354-6881
houstontx.gov
Brazos Bend State Park is renowned in the Houston area for being a place to view migratory birds, go fishing and take exciting bike rides on a Saturday morning. Part of the excitement of riding in Brazos Bend State Park is the chance to run into one of the park's famous swampy residents: alligators. Despite the cautions issued by park officials regarding the reptiles, the park is a safe and fun place where families routinely come with small children to see the gators. On Saturdays, many overnight campers go to George Observatory to peer trough a telescope.
Brazos Bend State Park
21901 FM 762
Needville, TX 77461
979-553-5102
tpwd.state.tx.us
Galveston is familiar to Pasadena residents, but many may not know that the island contains a small but pretty state park with 24-hour access to clean beaches. The park is open seven days a week and provides beach-side camping that is about 10 degrees cooler in the summer than inland parks. The park has water, restroom and shower facilities but few services or activities besides a few trails through the dunes. Feel free to spend your day exploring the city of Galveston because the park is just a few minutes from the Strand.
Galveston Island State Park
14901 FM 3005
Galveston, TX 77554
409-737-1222
tpwd.state.tx.us
With more than 165,000 acres, the Sam Houston National Forest offers a big slice of East Texas Piney Woods that can be easily accessed by Houston-area residents. Huntsville State Park is located within the forest and provides camping and trail access to visitors. The park also includes Lake Raven and opportunities for fishing and restricted motor boating. Although hiking opportunities are plentiful, trails in the National Forest are not well-marked. Visitors who intend to hike or camp in the backcountry should acquire a map in advance or during open hours from the visitor's center.
Huntsville State Park
P.O. Box 508
Huntsville, TX 77342-0508
936-295-5644
tpwd.state.tx.us
Campers willing to travel a little further will find many freshwater recreation opportunities at Village Creek State Park in the heart of the Big Thicket. Canoeing is a very popular way to view the 200 species of birds native to the cypress swamps along the Neches River, and boats can be rented from outfitters in Lumberton. The area also draws anglers, who nab perch, bass and catfish. Although the marshes are highly susceptible to and have been damaged by hurricanes, the park remains a big draw, so campsites are reserved in advance.
Village Creek State Park
P.O. Box 8565
Lumberton, TX 77657
409-755-7322
tpwd.state.tx.us
