Double Lake Recreation Area
4.47312 reviews301 FM 2025, Coldspring, TX, USA
Double Lake Recreation Area
$20.00 - $140.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$66.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$140.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $20 for tent-only non-electric sites to $140 for Shelter Electric group sites. Extra fees include $7 per vehicle per day for day use, $1 for walk-in or bicycle day use, and $5 for dump station use. Interagency passes may provide discounts for individual campsites.
About this campground
Nestled within the verdant embrace of East Texas pine forests, Double Lake Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its tranquil 23-acre lake and diverse camping options. Whether you're seeking a peaceful tent site beneath towering pines, a full-service RV spot, or a gathering place for your group adventure, this woodland retreat delivers. Days here unfold with endless possibilities: cast a line into the mirror-like waters, take a refreshing swim, explore winding forest trails on foot or bike, or simply spread a blanket for an afternoon picnic as birdsong fills the air.
The campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences, from primitive to tent sites, RV camping, and group sites.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at this Depression-era treasure, lovingly crafted by the skilled hands of the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1937. Young men of the CCC transformed this corner of Sam Houston National Forest into a recreational haven, leaving behind a legacy of sturdy craftsmanship and thoughtful design that continues to welcome visitors nearly a century later. Their vision of accessible outdoor recreation lives on in every carefully placed stone and trail they carved through the wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of East Texas seasons at Double Lake, where autumn through spring brings crisp mornings and comfortable afternoons perfect for outdoor exploration. Summer transforms the forest into a lush, humid sanctuary from June through August, ideal for cooling off with a swim in the lake. Winter visitors enjoy mild, occasionally wet weather that keeps the forest green and the crowds at bay, creating an intimate camping experience.
Natural Features and SceneryThe gentle topography of rolling hills creates an enchanting backdrop where towering loblolly pines mingle with stately hardwoods, their canopy filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. At the heart of it all lies the jewel of Double Lake—23 acres of pristine water that mirrors the sky and surrounding forest. Visitors often find themselves pausing mid-activity, captivated by the lake's serene beauty as morning mist rises from its surface or evening light paints the water in shades of gold and amber.
Geological RegionDiscover the natural splendor of Sam Houston National Forest, where ancient geological forces sculpted a landscape of gentle hills now cloaked in a tapestry of pine and hardwood forests. This 163,000-acre wonderland cradles Double Lake in its rolling terrain, creating a perfect sanctuary where the Piney Woods ecosystem thrives. The interplay of elevation changes and diverse forest habitats supports an abundance of wildlife and creates ever-changing vistas around each bend in the trail.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome campsites and facilities are ADA-accessible. However, issues such as unmaintained trails and uneven paths were noted.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating both small tents and large RVs. Specific sites allow up to 8 people per site.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies. Some campers praised the spaciness and seclusion of sites, while others mentioned close proximity in some areas.
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with waterfront access for better views. Tent-only sites on the west side of the lake are recommended for peace and quiet.
Best CampsitesSites 062 and 007 received positive reviews for lake views and serenity. Group sites such as J and D were described as spacious and well-maintained.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No access for new campers from 10 PM-6 AM.
Check-out
Unknown.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Only two tents and up to eight people are allowed at a single occupancy campsite.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate up to 50 people. Specific rules apply, including vehicle limits and additional fees.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIncludes tent sites, RV sites, and group camping areas. Sites are described as spacious and heavily wooded.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with peak season pricing from January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThere appears to be a mix of reservable and walk-up sites. Walk-up sites are first-come-first-serve; no detailed fill pattern is mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (for individual campsites) will additionally forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Double Lake Recreation Area offers a variety of activities for nature enthusiasts, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, swimming, and mountain biking.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include a 5-mile trail leading to Big Creek Scenic Area and access to the 128-mile Lone Star Hiking Trail. Trails are described as 'ideal for beginners or experienced hikers.'Fishing
Fishing is available year-round, with bass, bream, and catfish commonly stocked. However, some users reported limited success due to lake conditions.Swimming
The swimming area includes a sandy beach, but some user reviews indicated that leeches had been spotted in the water.Biking
Mountain biking trails span 20 miles around the lake, and many users praised their condition, describing them as well-maintained and suitable for various skill levels.Boating
Boating is allowed with small electric motors. Canoe and boat rentals are available seasonally.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is common, with reports of birds such as the Pileated Woodpecker and various other species.Beach activities
Beach activities include sunbathing and swimming. The sandy beach is a highlight for many visitors, although there are occasional reports of leeches.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited, but cool weather makes the area favorable for hiking and camping.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities in the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Firewood is available for purchase for $5 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM-6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include leeches in the lake and coral snakes, as noted in user reviews. Lack of enforcement on DOG leash policies was also cited.
Active alertsSome bathrooms and showers are currently out of order. Lake levels have been low recently, affecting fishing and scenic views.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Nearest emergency services are not explicitly mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but some users mentioned that they were not well-marked, and the dump station was confusing to find.
Proximity to water featuresLocated around Double Lake with opportunities for fishing and swimming. Several fishing piers are available.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include maintenance delays, closed restrooms, leeches in the lake, unclean facilities, and lack of privacy between campsites.
HostHosts described as friendly and accommodating in numerous reviews. "The hosts were superior, attentive, and seriously committed to their roles," according to one visitor.
Campground Map
301 FM 2025, Coldspring, TX, USA
Driving directionsFrom New Waverly, Texas, go 22 miles east on Highway 150 to FM 2025. Turn and drive south 0.25 miles to the campground.
Accessible via paved roads. The campground is located 0.25 miles from FM 2025, making it easy to reach. No seasonal closures or terrain challenges are mentioned.Nearby places
New Waverly (22 miles, approximate travel time unknown), Cleveland (18 miles, approximate travel time unknown).
Nearby supplies
Brookshire Brothers and Dollar General are located five minutes away. Other larger stores are in Cleveland (18 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.5
312 reviews
Double Lake Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Mixed reviews highlight the campground's beautiful natural setting, spacious sites, and excellent biking trails, but frequent complaints about maintenance issues such as broken showers and unclean restrooms.
Review Summaries
Based on 312 reviews
What Campers Love
Users enjoyed the spacious campsites, proximity to hiking trails, and helpful camp hosts. Many reviews praised the peaceful atmosphere and family-friendly environment.
Based on 312 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include poor maintenance of restrooms and showers, inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours, and the condition of roads and trails.
Based on 312 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood, as the on-site firewood is not highly rated. Plan for potentially long walks to functional restrooms. Consider visiting during the off-peak season for a quieter experience.
Based on 312 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest in summer, with some complaints about noise levels. Fall and winter offer cooler, quieter experiences with fewer maintenance issues.
Based on 312 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The park hosts were fantastic, helpful, and accommodating." "The lake trail is almost impassable in spots." "Bathrooms right across from our site were out of order."
Based on 312 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #60: Unlevel terrain but great privacy. Site #7: Spacious and near lake, but noisy neighbors at night. Site #59: Excellent access to trails, clean.
Based on 312 reviewsAccessibility Features
Facilities are not consistently accessible due to uneven trails and maintenance issues.
Based on 312 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some users noted that leash rules are not strongly enforced, leading to issues with unsupervised dogs.
Based on 312 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025