How much does camping cost at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area range from $15-$35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area before I book?

Yes! Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area has 6 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area is open January 1 through December 31.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Yes, Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area: Campfires are allowed except during burn bans. Firewood available for purchase nearby.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Is there cell service at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Cell phone service at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area have?

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area has 56 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

4.34

426 reviews

18551 State Highway 7 East, KENNARD, TX 75487, USA

SwimmingTent CampingSummer Destination

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Texas Tent Camping

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Compare availability across multiple campgrounds

Quick Facts

322 ft

Price

$15 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

56 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Book on U.S. Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Compare availability across multiple campgrounds

Quick Facts

322 ft

Price

$15 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

56 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Book on U.S. Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

$15.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Facility rates vary by season and site type. Standard Electric: $20/night plus $5 for electric hookup; Tent-Only Non-Electric: $15/night; Group...

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hookup Site Fee$20.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$30.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

936-655-2299

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.34

Recommended

Based on 426 reviews

104 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulcleanrestroomsspacious

Some mention

noise

"User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, spaciousness, and natural beauty. Positive sentiments dominate, with frequent praise for the well-maintained facilities and peaceful environment. Complaints include noise from nearby Highway 7, water hookup distances, and occasional restroom shortages."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

18551 State Highway 7 East, KENNARD, TX 75487, USA

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

18551 State Highway 7 East, KENNARD, TX 75487, USA

Nearby places

Kennard (approximately 5 miles), Ratcliff (approximately 7 miles), Lufkin (approximately 30 miles)

Nearby supplies

Supplies available in nearby towns such as Kennard and Crockett, including groceries, firewood, and camping essentials.

Best Time to Camp at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

Fall is the sweet spot here. Daytime highs settle in the mid-60s to low-80s°F with crisp nights in the 40s-50s°F. Mosquitoes retreat, humidity drops, and the lake stays at good levels for paddling and fishing. Oaks and understory plants add subtle color without the summer crowds. Summer brings heat and humidity, best handled with early morning activities and afternoon swims. Winter nights can frost the pine needles. East Texas gets generous rainfall year-round, keeping the forest lush but bringing occasional thunderstorms. Note that deer hunting seasons overlap with fall visits.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Top 24% in TX

Swimming and paddling are summer highlights; reviews call out lake activities despite heat.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 1 through December 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round. Peak season pricing applies from January 1 through December 31.
Current Alerts: Seasonal burn bans may apply.

About Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area sits in the Davy Crockett National Forest, an hour north of Lufkin. The campground has 56 sites around a 45-acre lake, with options for tents, RVs up to 50 feet, and groups. Sites run $15-35 per night and offer a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served availability. The forest feels quiet and private despite some highway noise from nearby Highway 7.

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area accommodates various camping styles, including tent camping, RV sites, and group shelters. Sites are spacious and equipped with amenities like electricity and water hookups.

Historical Significance

The Civilian Conservation Corps built Ratcliff Lake's infrastructure in 1936, and their stonework and structures still stand. Before that, a sawmill operated here from 1902 to 1920, floating massive logs across what would become the lake. The nearby Texas Forestry Museum in Lufkin covers this timber history in detail.

Weather and SeasonsFall is the sweet spot here. Daytime highs settle in the mid-60s to low-80s°F with crisp nights in the 40s-50s°F. Mosquitoes retreat, humidity drops, and the lake stays at good levels for paddling and fishing. Oaks and understory plants add subtle color without the summer crowds. Summer brings heat and humidity, best handled with early morning activities and afternoon swims. Winter nights can frost the pine needles. East Texas gets generous rainfall year-round, keeping the forest lush but bringing occasional thunderstorms. Note that deer hunting seasons overlap with fall visits.

ElevationSituated in the gently rolling terrain characteristic of East Texas woodlands, Ratcliff Lake rests at an elevation that perfectly captures the region's subtropical charm. This modest height above sea level creates an environment where morning mists dance across the water's surface and afternoon breezes whisper through the pine canopy, offering comfortable camping conditions throughout most of the year.

Natural Features and SceneryLoblolly pines and oaks dominate the 160,000-acre forest, creating thick canopy cover over sandy soils formed by ancient river terraces. The campground sits at 322 feet elevation near the Neches and Trinity River basins. Ratcliff Lake anchors the recreation area, its 45 acres reflecting the surrounding pines and providing habitat for the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker. Reviewers consistently mention the natural beauty and peaceful environment, though the hum of Highway 7 is audible from some sites. Tree frogs and fish jumping at dusk add to the ambiance.

Geological RegionRatcliff Lake lies within the vast embrace of the Davy Crockett National Forest, a 160,000-acre testament to the enduring beauty of East Texas woodlands. Carved by the ancient waters of the Neches and Trinity River basins, this landscape tells a geological story millions of years in the making. The sandy soils support magnificent forests dominated by loblolly pine and various oak species, creating a classic Southern forest ecosystem where prehistoric river terraces meet modern recreational paradise. This unique geological setting provides not just scenic beauty, but a living classroom where visitors can witness the intricate dance between water, soil, and forest that defines East Texas.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

15:00

Check-out

11:00

Stay Limit

Limit of one RV unit or two tents per site.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Limit of 8 guests per site.

Groups

The group shelter area can accommodate multiple tents or RV setups. User reviews noted the spaciousness and accessibility of group sites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThree loops: Dogwood, Lakeside, and Loblolly. Sites are well-spaced with good privacy between neighbors. RV sites accommodate rigs up to 50 feet. Some water hookups require long hoses, a complaint that shows up in multiple reviews. Tent sites have ample room.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available, including Dogwood Loop.

Cancellation PolicyScan and Pay system: no refunds or modifications allowed for payments. Standard reservations canceled on the day before arrival incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's fee.

AccessibilityAccessibility features include spacious campsites, level driveways, and accessible picnic areas. User reviews noted, "Plenty of space between campsites" and "Driveways were level and easy to back into.

Site SizeSpacious sites accommodating RVs up to 50 feet with ample room for tents and vehicles.

PrivacyWell-spaced campsites offering privacy; users found the campground quiet and secluded. Reviews such as "Nicely spaced lots feels very private" highlight this aspect.

Total Campsites56 campsites

Recommended SitesFor privacy and lake views, choose tent sites in Lakeside Loop. Sites in Dogwood Loop are ideal for RVs with water and electricity hookups. Long hoses may be needed.

Need help booking Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area provides various recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife observation. The campground features a designated swimming area, three hiking trails, and fishing piers. Visitors can also engage in hunting within the Davy Crockett National Forest. User reviews highlight the enjoyable hiking trails and lake activities, with direct quotes such as "Great trails and beautiful forest" and "Fishing in the lake was relaxing."

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsHighway noise is a common complaint. Some fish consumption advisories exist for the lake. Wildlife includes squirrels and deer.

Active AlertsSeasonal burn bans may apply.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed except during burn bans. Firewood available for purchase nearby.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours enforced but specific timeframes not provided.

Emergency ServicesNearest hospital located in Lufkin, TX, about 30 miles away. Police services available in Kennard.

Trash & RecyclingTrash bins are provided throughout the campground. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.

Water FeaturesLocated near Ratcliff Lake with fishing piers and a boat ramp. Swimming allowed in designated areas with no lifeguards.

Camp HostHosts are frequently praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. Reviewers mention park hosts Pat and Eileen Wright.

Weather at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.3

426 reviews

Recommended

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, spaciousness, and natural beauty. Positive sentiments dominate, with frequent praise for the well-maintained facilities and peaceful environment. Complaints include noise from nearby Highway 7, water hookup distances, and occasional restroom shortages.

Review Summaries

Based on 426 reviews

What Campers Love

Key positive aspects include clean and spacious campsites, friendly staff, well-maintained trails, and a peaceful environment. User quotes such as "Extremely clean facilities" and "Restrooms are the...

Based on 426 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints involve noise from Highway 7, overcrowding in RV areas by tent campers, shared water hookups necessitating long hoses, and occasional shortages of toilet paper. Reviews include comments...

Based on 426 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips for visitors include bringing long water hoses for RVs, arriving early to secure first-come, first-served sites, and preparing for noise from Highway 7. Visitors also recommend exploring the...

Based on 426 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter reviews praise the quiet and less crowded conditions, while summer reviews highlight the swimming area and lake activities despite higher temperatures. Spring and fall are popular for hiking...

Based on 426 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Restrooms are the cleanest we've ever seen." 2. "The trails were well-marked and covered in soft pine needles." 3. "Kayak fishing was very relaxing." 4. "Campsites are large with plenty of room...

Based on 426 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews indicate that Dogwood Loop is popular for RVs and offers electricity, while Lakeside Loop provides proximity to the lake but fewer restrooms. Site 36 was praised for its...

Based on 426 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility reviews emphasize well-spaced campsites and level driveways suitable for individuals with mobility concerns. Comments include "Driveways were level and easy to back into."

Based on 426 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Reviews from pet owners praise the spacious sites and shaded areas, suitable for dogs. One user noted, "Plenty of space for animals if you have a dog."

Based on 426 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Last updated April 4, 2026

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