Huntsville State Park
00 review565 Park Road 40 W, Huntsville, Texas, 77340, United States
Huntsville State Park
$7.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
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: $7 per person (13 and older). Group entrance fee: $2 per person for group rentals. Campsites: $30 per night. Activity fee: $2 for non-campers arriving after hours to obtain gate code.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of East Texas, Huntsville State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Whether you're casting a line into the calm waters at dawn, exploring winding forest trails, or watching your children splash in designated swimming areas, this beloved destination offers something for every member of the family. Well-maintained picnic areas dot the landscape, providing ideal spots for afternoon gatherings, while an extensive trail system invites hikers and bird watchers to discover the park's hidden treasures.
The park provides options for primitive, RV, and tent camping, as well as group sites and cabins.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the park's ever-changing personality through the seasons, where mild winters give way to vibrant springs filled with wildflowers and perfect camping temperatures. While summer brings the warmth that makes lake activities irresistible, savvy visitors seek out the coveted shaded campsites to escape the Texas heat. Fall emerges as a crowd favorite, painting the forest in golden hues while offering crisp mornings and comfortable afternoons. Spring and fall shine as the premier seasons, when moderate temperatures combine with minimal mosquito activity to create ideal outdoor conditions.
ElevationSet within the gently rolling terrain of East Texas's Piney Woods, the park's forested landscape creates a natural amphitheater of towering trees and subtle elevation changes that add character to every trail and campsite.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Sam Houston National Forest, where towering pine trees create a cathedral-like canopy overhead. The park's centerpiece, a pristine lake, mirrors the sky and surrounding forest, offering moments of pure serenity. This rich ecosystem supports an impressive array of wildlife – from prehistoric alligators gliding silently through the water to the rhythmic drumming of woodpeckers echoing through the pines. Lucky visitors might spot elegant snowy egrets wading in the shallows, their white plumage a striking contrast against the deep green waters.
Geological RegionSituated in the majestic expanse of Sam Houston National Forest, this natural wonderland showcases the best of East Texas geography. Gentle elevation changes create diverse microclimates throughout the park, while ancient pine forests stand sentinel around a sprawling lake that serves as the lifeblood of this thriving ecosystem.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility options include wide camping spaces and varying site types, although there was no specific mention of ADA-compliant features in the reviews.
Sites SizeSites range from water-only to full RV hookups and include both spacious and compact options.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy between sites varies, with some reviewers mentioning closely spaced sites, while others noted ample room between campers.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRV users should bring stabilizer leveling pads. Tent campers advised to select flatter sites.
Best CampsitesHighlighted site: 39. Scenic but facing concerns over nearby vehicle traffic.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 AM
Check-out
10:00 PM
Stay Limit
- Stay limits vary
- modify or cancel reservations if plans change.
Groups
Group sites are large and spacious but specific details about capacity or vehicle limits are unavailable.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites vary in layout including pull-through and back-in options. Some with sewer connections.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; high visitor volume during weekends, holidays, and school breaks.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via state parks reservation system with Save the Day passes up to 30 days in advance.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites available but fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be modified or canceled to allow others to access sites.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Picnic tables
Dump station
WiFi
Cell phone service
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Huntsville State Park offers a wide variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, boating, swimming, wildlife viewing, and cultural programs.
Hiking
The park features several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, including the Prairie Branch and Dogwood trails. Some trails connect to the Sam Houston National Forest. Several reviews praise the trails for their beauty, clear markings, and opportunities for bird watching.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, especially on the two fishing piers and Lake Raven. Multiple users reported seeing or catching fish, including bass. Visitors are advised to be cautious of alligators in the lake.Swimming
A designated swimming area in Lake Raven is available, complete with platforms. However, some visitors chose to avoid swimming due to the presence of alligators, which are noted to keep their distance as long as left undisturbed.Biking
The park offers trails suitable for both novice and experienced bikers. Some trails have elevation changes that can make biking challenging.Boating
Boating activities include kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boating. Kayaks and paddleboats can be rented for $20 and $15 per hour, respectively, with refundable deposits. There is a pristine boat ramp and dock as well.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include birds such as woodpeckers, salamanders, and alligators. A bird blind is available for observing migrating species like snowy egrets and great blue herons.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park hosts educational programs such as 'gator talks' at the nature center, where visitors can pet small alligators and learn about local wildlife.Winter Activities
Hiking and camping during winter are common, with some visitors mentioning cold snaps and the need for extra preparation.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are available on Lake Raven, with rental options on-site.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated areas. Follow park rules.
- Quiet hours enforced during nighttime.
Hazards
General hazardsSome sites uneven and require leveling equipment. Presence of alligators in water necessitates caution.
Active alertsControlled forest burning noted during some visits.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Walker County Dispatch: (936) 435-8001, Huntsville Police Dept.: (936) 291-5480, Walker County Sheriff's Dept.: (936) 435-2400.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak seasons include holidays, weekends, and school breaks.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but some users noted trash along the lake banks, which detracted from their experience.
Proximity to water featuresLake Raven within park boundaries provides boating, fishing, and swimming.
Common complaintsUneven campsites, dated restrooms, and occasional trash issues. High-speed traffic reported by some visitors.
HostHosts helpful and patrol grounds frequently; friendly and accommodating.
Campground Map
565 Park Road 40 W, Huntsville, Texas, 77340, United States
Driving directionsFrom Houston: Take IH-45 North to exit 109. Turn left on Park Road 40 to the park. The park is 6 miles South of Huntsville. From Dallas: Take IH-45 South, for 6 miles South of Huntsville, to exit 109. Turn right on Park Road 40 to the park.
Accessible via paved roads from major highways. Park Road 40 is relatively straightforward to navigate, but some concerns about site slopes and uneven terrain for RVs.Nearby places
Huntsville (6 miles, approx. 10 minutes), Houston (approx. 75 minutes), Dallas (approx. 3 hours).
Nearby supplies
Park store offers basic supplies for campers. Huntsville, 6 miles away, provides full access to groceries, fuel, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Huntsville State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Huntsville State Park is well-loved for its range of activities and natural beauty. Common themes in user feedback include abundant recreational opportunities, clean facilities, and friendly park staff. However, issues such as uneven campsites, dated infrastructure, and trash in some areas were noted.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users frequently mentioned the park's scenic beauty, well-marked trails, and diverse recreational activities. Highlights include the lake's designated swimming area, fishing piers, and opportunities...
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Common Concerns
Complaints often focused on the unevenness of campsites, cleanliness issues in some restrooms, and trash along the lake's banks. RV users also mentioned difficulties with leveling due to slopes.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing extra leveling equipment for RVs, arriving early on weekends to secure good sites, and preparing for potentially uneven ground. Some users suggest avoiding swimming areas...
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Seasonal Insights
The park is busiest during weekends and holidays, with spring and fall being particularly popular for their pleasant weather. Summer can be hot, and winter camping requires adequate preparation for...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Scenic park with an enormous number of picnic tables!' - Zachary Roberts
2. 'At dawn and dusk, try spotting one of the 60+ alligators.' - Zachary Roberts
3. 'Fantastic state park with lots of...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #39 was noted for being near a road with speeding vehicles, causing concern for safety. Site #5 had issues with crumbling asphalt and extreme unevenness. Site #2, while featuring full hookups,...
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Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews were provided, though wide spaces and varying site types were noted.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and many visitors brought their dogs, noting that the park is very pet-friendly.
Last updated August 10, 2025