Brushy Creek
4.51347 reviews189 Brushy Creek Park Rd, Jefferson, TX 75657
Brushy Creek
$18.00 - $44.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
Hookup Site Fee$44.00
Premium Site Fee$44.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $18 for non-electric tent sites to $44 for premium RV sites. Other options include $20 for tent sites with electricity and $28-$32 for RV sites. Seasonal rates apply during peak season (March 1 - November 30).
About this campground
Nestled among towering pines on the shores of Lake O' the Pines, Brushy Creek Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of forest serenity and aquatic adventure. This beloved East Texas destination invites you to cast a line into crystal-clear waters, glide across 18,700 acres of pristine lake, or simply relax under a canopy of fragrant pine boughs while watching herons fish along the shoreline.
Brushy Creek Campground caters to a variety of camping styles. It offers options for tent camping, RVs, and group accommodations.
Historical SignificanceYour gateway to East Texas heritage awaits just beyond the campground, where the historic towns of Jefferson and Marshall tell stories of steamboat commerce and Civil War history. Follow the famous Texas Wildflower Trail routes that wind through the countryside, or discover how Lake O' the Pines emerged from ambitious flood control efforts that transformed the Red River Basin into today's recreational paradise.
Weather and SeasonsFrom March through November, warm Texas sunshine filters through the pine canopy, creating ideal conditions for swimming and water sports. The humid subtropical climate brings refreshing afternoon thunderstorms that cool the forest floor and release the sweet scent of pine. Winter visitors should pack layers, as cooler temperatures and occasional wet weather transform the campground into a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain creates natural amphitheaters of camping spots, each offering its own unique perspective of the surrounding landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic loblolly and shortleaf pines create a living cathedral overhead, their straight trunks reaching skyward like nature's columns. The expansive lake stretches to the horizon, its waters reflecting cotton-candy sunsets and early morning mists. Surrounding the aquatic jewel, 9,000 acres of protected land showcase the biodiversity of East Texas, where wildflowers carpet forest clearings and wildlife thrives among the rolling hills.
Geological RegionExperience the authentic Pineywoods of East Texas, where the landscape tells an ancient story of forests and waterways. Positioned in the heart of the Ark-La-Tex region, Brushy Creek sits at the crossroads of four states' natural heritage, where southern pine forests meet hardwood bottoms and create a unique ecosystem found nowhere else in Texas.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground accommodates accessibility needs with accessible showers and restrooms. However, some users suggested improvements to trails and pathways.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating tents, RVs, and group setups. Several reviews mention 'spacious pads' and 'large, level sites.'
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer varying levels of privacy, with some users reporting close proximity to neighbors ('Sites are very close together') and others highlighting 'secluded and spacious spots.'
Total Campsites99 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lakeside sites like E109 for views. Avoid tent sites near RVs due to noise complaints.
Best CampsitesE109 (lakefront), E101 (spacious and scenic), E122 (large paved site with accessibility).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Officially begins at 10:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out by 2:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Varies by campsite
- exact maximum not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFeatures three loops: R1, R2, and T1 (tent-only). Sites include spacious RV pads and tent areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen March 1 through November 30. Reservations accepted on a 6-month rolling basis.
Reservation PlatformsAvailable via Recreation.gov website and app, or by contacting customer service.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-serve sites available when not reserved; details on daily fill patterns not specified.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of first night's use fee for late cancellations. Changes cost $10 if dates are completely altered. Refunds available in emergencies.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a diverse range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, wildlife viewing, hiking, and more. Lake O' The Pines is a centerpiece for water-based activities.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, though some users noted that the trails could be better marked and maintained ('Trails could be marked better'). Other reviews highlight the scenic quality of the trails, particularly those near the lake.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw at Brushy Creek, with opportunities to catch largemouth bass, catfish, sunfish, and more. Users recommend bringing fishing gear for both bank and boat fishing ('The fishing is great and Lake O’ The Pines is gorgeous').Swimming
A designated swimming beach is available, offering a sandy beach area that users describe as 'nice and clean.'Biking
Campground loops and nearby areas are suitable for biking, with some users specifically mentioning bike-friendly paths.Boating
The campground offers boating facilities, including a boat ramp and courtesy dock. User reviews highlight the convenience of these facilities for activities like kayaking and jet skiing.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is popular, especially birdwatching. Bald eagles are frequently sighted in the area, particularly in fall and winter.Beach activities
The swimming beach is a hub for beach-related activities. Some reviews specifically mention the sandy beach as a highlight of the campground.Winter Activities
Winter activities focus on wildlife viewing, especially bald eagle spotting.Water Sports
Water-based activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are popular at Lake O’ The Pines.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Subject to burn bans during dry periods; otherwise campfires are allowed.
- Quiet hours begin at 10:00 PM but enforcement is inconsistent.
Hazards
General hazards"Fire ants an issue around the camp." Occasional storm-related damages such as downed trees and power outages.
Active alertsSome sites are under reconstruction due to storm damage. Playground is occasionally closed for updates.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Light drizzle
Precipitation: 0.4%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 11.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (0.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Light drizzle
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
Marion County Sheriff’s Office and Jefferson Fire Department located approx. 9 miles away in Jefferson; nearest hospital is Good Shepherd Medical Center in Longview (~45 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1 to November 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are placed throughout the park. Recycling facilities are not mentioned. Some users noted issues with overflowing trash bins during peak times.
Proximity to water featuresLake O' the Pines provides ample access to fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities.
Common complaints"Bathrooms not cleaned properly," "Campsites too close together," "Noise levels high at times."
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful in multiple reviews.
Campground Map
189 Brushy Creek Park Rd, Jefferson, TX 75657
Driving directionsFrom Jefferson, TX, travel 3.8 miles northwest on Highway 49. Turn left onto FM 729 and continue for approximately 3.5 miles, then turn left again onto FM 726. Travel 5.0 miles, turn right at the stop sign and follow signs to the park entrance.
Accessible year-round via paved roads; no mention of seasonal closures. Challenges may arise due to incorrect GPS directions. "Recreation.gov app direction for Brushy Creek is wrong."Nearby places
Jefferson (approx. 9 miles
20 minutes), Marshall (approx. 27 miles
40 minutes), Longview (approx. 45 miles
1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Brushy Landing store/restaurant near park entrance provides fishing equipment and essentials. Jefferson (~9 miles) offers grocery and dining options. Marshall (~27 miles) has larger retail stores.
Camper Reviews
4.5
347 reviews
Brushy Creek is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, with an overall sentiment of 4.36 out of 5. Highlights include well-maintained facilities, scenic views, and friendly staff. However, some recurring complaints include bathroom cleanliness and lack of rule enforcement.
Review Summaries
Based on 347 reviews
What Campers Love
Commonly praised aspects include the scenic beauty of the campground ('Beautiful park with spacious RV sites'), friendly and helpful staff ('Staff was very friendly and helpful'), and well-maintained...
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Common Concerns
The most frequent issues mentioned include bathroom cleanliness ('Bathrooms were dirty and not stocked with toilet paper'), proximity of campsites ('Sites are very close together'), and enforcement...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users suggest bringing extra firewood, checking the gate hours for late arrivals, and opting for waterfront sites for the best views. Some also advise visiting nearby Jefferson for additional...
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Seasonal Insights
Fall and winter are particularly popular due to bald eagle sightings and cooler weather. Summers are busy, with users enjoying water activities but noting overcrowding and occasional maintenance...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'We LOVE this campground and are sad for the trees lost in the storm. We will be back many more times in the future.' 2. 'The staff continued all day Saturday and Sunday with cleanup of the park...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews for specific sites vary. For example, E109 receives high praise for its beautiful lake views, while E111 is noted for spaciousness but has issues with stray dogs. Sites near the lake are...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility is generally praised, though some users mention that trails and pathways could be improved for better navigation.
Based on 347 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, but some users complain about barking and loose dogs. A leash policy is in place, but enforcement appears inconsistent.
Based on 347 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025