Mission Tejas State Park
00 review19343 State Highway 21 East, GRAPELAND, Texas, 75844, United States
Mission Tejas State Park
$1.00 - $3.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Day use fee is $3 per person aged 13 and older. Group School-Sponsored Trip Tour Fee is $1 per person. Additional fees for campsites not detailed.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of East Texas's enchanting Piney Woods, Mission Tejas State Park offers an intimate escape where centuries of history whisper through towering pines. This compact treasure invites you to walk in the footsteps of Spanish missionaries and early Texas pioneers, exploring the meticulously preserved Mission San Francisco de Los Tejas and the weathered timbers of the Rice Family Log Home. Winding trails lead through cathedral-like forests, where morning mist dances between ancient trees and the stories of Texas's earliest days come alive with every step.
The park offers multiple camping options, including sites for tents, RVs, and primitive camping. Some sites have electrical and water hookups.
Historical SignificanceStep back to 1690 and discover where Texas history truly began at the site of Mission San Francisco de Los Tejas, the first Spanish mission in the region that would become the Lone Star State. The park preserves not just buildings but entire chapters of early Texas life, including portions of the legendary El Camino Real - the 'Royal Road' that connected Spanish missions and became a vital lifeline for settlers, traders, and adventurers crossing this wild frontier.
Weather and SeasonsThe park transforms with each season, offering year-round adventures for those who know when to visit. Summer brings the full symphony of East Texas heat and humidity, with cicadas singing in the canopy and afternoon thunderstorms providing dramatic relief. Winter offers a gentler experience, with crisp mornings perfect for hiking and occasional rainfall that brings out the earthy scents of the forest floor. For the ultimate camping experience, plan your visit during the magical months of spring or fall, when mild temperatures create perfect conditions for outdoor exploration and the forest showcases either fresh green growth or stunning autumn colors.
ElevationThe park's gently rolling terrain creates an ever-changing landscape of valleys and ridges, offering varied perspectives of the surrounding forest canopy and creating natural amphitheaters where wildlife gathers and history seems to echo through the trees.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where majestic pine-covered hills roll like green waves toward the horizon, broken by babbling streams that have carved their paths for centuries. A serene pond reflects the surrounding forest like nature's mirror, while the historic El Camino Real trail winds through the property, its ancient path now shaded by towering trees. This is where Texas's natural beauty and human heritage intertwine, creating scenes that change with every season and light.
Geological RegionExperience the authentic Piney Woods of East Texas, where magnificent loblolly and shortleaf pines stretch skyward, creating a living cathedral of green. This rich forestland, carved by time into gentle rolling hills, represents one of Texas's most distinctive ecological regions. The fertile soil that once attracted early settlers now nurtures a diverse ecosystem where wildflowers bloom beneath the pine canopy and the terrain tells the geological story of ancient seas and centuries of forest growth.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features were not explicitly highlighted, but some reviews noted stairs leading to bathroom facilities and benches along trails.
Sites SizeCampsite sizes are varied, with some described as small and others spacious. Site 15, specifically, was noted as very spacious.
Sites PrivacyReviews indicate mixed privacy levels, with some campsites offering good spacing and others being close together.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 15 is described as spacious and enjoyable by reviewers. Sites for RVs may require caution due to uneven terrain.
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe camping area is small, with campsites described by users as "close together" and "compact."
Open and Closed SeasonThe park is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNot explicitly mentioned; reservations may typically be handled through Texas State Park systems.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific details provided; user reviews suggest limited availability due to the small number of campsites (15).
Cancellation PolicyVisitors are advised to modify or cancel reservations as soon as possible to allow others to enjoy the park.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Mission Tejas State Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, bird-watching, and exploring historic sites. There are also opportunities for guided tours and educational programs.
Hiking
The park has approximately 8.5 to 10 miles of trails with varying difficulty levels, including challenging trails like the Steep Ravine trail and easier paths. Trails are well-marked, though some users noted occasional signage issues.Fishing
Fishing is available at the park's pond, with some anglers reporting catches such as 15–20-inch catfish. However, the pond has been described as small by some visitors.Biking
Surfaced biking trails are available within the park.Wildlife viewing
The park offers opportunities for viewing deer, birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. Some visitors noted seeing little wildlife during their hikes.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers guided tours and opportunities to learn about Texas history, including the Mission San Francisco de Los Tejas and El Camino Real Trail. Visitors have praised the educational value of these programs.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically highlighted, but the park’s trails remain accessible year-round.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as available activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed; grills are provided at campsites.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated; visitors describe the park as "quiet" and "peaceful."
Hazards
General hazardsTicks and mosquitoes are mentioned frequently by reviewers. Some site reviews warn of uneven or compacted ground.
Weather forecast
93
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Emergency Services
Emergency services are likely found in the nearby town of Grapeland or Crockett. Specific facilities are not detailed.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot specified explicitly in the authoritative content or reviews.
Trash and recyclingDetails on trash and recycling facilities were not provided, but the park offers general maintenance services, suggesting waste management systems are in place.
Proximity to water featuresIncludes a pond noted for peaceful fishing and occasional sightings of wildlife like turtles.
Common complaints"Campsites are close together," "electric and water hookups are inconveniently placed," and "some RV sites are uneven." Maintenance issues include outdated infrastructure like pipes and delayed trail upkeep.
HostCamp hosts are praised for being respectful and helpful. "Behind the gate for the maintenance area, which means guests rarely come and knock on the door." Hosts actively participate in trail maintenance and burn prep.
Campground Map
19343 State Highway 21 East, GRAPELAND, Texas, 75844, United States
Driving directionsFrom Houston: Take I 45 North to Huntsville. Take Hwy 19 North to Crockett. Take Hwy 21 East for 21 miles to the park. Or Hwy 59 to Lufkin, then 69 North to Alto, then Hwy 21 West for 12 miles to park. From Dallas: Take I 45 South to Centerville. Take Hwy 7 East to Crockett take Hwy 21 East for 21 miles to the park. OR take Hwy 175 South to Jacksonville. Take Hwy 69 South to Alto. Take Hwy 21 West for 12 miles to the park.
Access involves driving on paved roads, with highways leading directly to the park. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain were explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Crockett (approximately 21 miles), Alto (approximately 12 miles), Lufkin (distance not specified in authoritative materials).
Nearby supplies
The park store offers limited supplies such as firewood and ice. For groceries and other essentials, Alto and Crockett are approximately 12 and 21 miles away respectively.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Mission Tejas State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Mission Tejas State Park is widely praised for its historical significance, well-maintained trails, and peaceful atmosphere. However, some users raised concerns about maintenance issues, campsite design, and the availability of cell service.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
- 'Trails are amazing. They range in difficulty.' - Doug Cline. - 'The park is small but beautiful, with 8.5 miles of well-marked trails.' - Miranda D. - 'Restrooms and showers are clean and...
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Common Concerns
- Campsites are too close together in certain areas, limiting privacy. - Some sites, such as Site 8, were noted as uneven and poorly designed. - Limited or no cell phone service within the park. -...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring mosquito repellent; several visitors noted issues with mosquitoes. - Download the park map in advance, as signage can be unclear on certain trails. - Check campsite designs carefully before...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer months are described as hot and humid, with limited wind due to dense tree cover. Fall is noted for beautiful foliage, and winter offers quieter trails but could be influenced by maintenance...
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Camper Quotes
- 'Small but beautiful park with 8.5 miles worth of trails.' - Miranda D. - 'Great park. Campsites are nice. Trails are amazing.' - Doug Cline. - 'My hiking partner and I drove down... This park did...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 8: Noted as very uneven and poorly designed, with safety concerns. Site 15: Described as spacious and highly satisfactory. General comment: Tent campsites are better spaced than some RV sites,...
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Accessibility Features
Reviews do not provide specific details on accessibility features beyond general mentions of stairs and benches along trails.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Some users noted confusion about pet policies due to contradictory guidance from staff and park signage.
Last updated August 10, 2025