Hanks Creek
4.19261 reviews7696 RR 255 WEST, JASPER, TX, 75951-9598, USA
Hanks Creek
$26.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$150.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Rates vary by site type and season, ranging from $26 to $150 per night.
About this campground
Tucked along the shores of Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Hanks Creek Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of water adventures and forest exploration. Whether you're launching your kayak at dawn, casting a line from the shoreline, or pedaling through pine-scented mountain bike trails, this hidden gem delivers authentic Texas outdoor experiences. Despite offering activities ranging from beach volleyball to wildlife photography, Hanks Creek maintains a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere that sets it apart from busier lakeside destinations.
The campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RV sites with electric and water hookups, and group camping areas. Screen shelters are also available for rent.
Historical SignificanceHanks Creek Park serves as a vital sanctuary for the endangered Red-cockaded woodpecker, whose distinctive drumming echoes through the old-growth pines. The area plays a crucial role in regional conservation efforts, sitting adjacent to historic Eastern Wild Turkey restoration sites that have helped bring these magnificent birds back from the brink. Every visit contributes to the preservation of these irreplaceable ecosystems.
Weather and SeasonsThe camping season at Hanks Creek truly comes alive from March through September, when warm Texas sunshine transforms the park into an outdoor playground. Spring brings wildflowers and perfect fishing conditions, while summer invites endless days of swimming and water sports. Early fall offers the sweet spot of comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, making it ideal for those seeking a more tranquil escape.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of Hanks Creek Park creates natural vantage points overlooking the reservoir, offering campers varied topography without challenging climbs.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to mist rising from 114,000 acres of pristine water, framed by the towering pines of Angelina National Forest. Hanks Creek Park sits at the heart of an outdoor paradise where three national forests converge - Angelina, Sabine, and Davy Crockett - creating endless horizons of green canopy. The rare sight of a Red-cockaded woodpecker flitting between ancient trees or the splash of a bass breaking the surface at sunset reminds visitors they've found something special in East Texas.
Geological RegionNestled where the vast Sam Rayburn Reservoir meets the piney woods of East Texas, Hanks Creek Park occupies a unique position within the Angelina National Forest. This convergence point of water and woodland, where the Sabine and Davy Crockett National Forests lie just beyond the horizon, creates a diverse ecosystem that showcases the best of Texas's eastern wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible playgrounds and paved areas. However, several reviews pointed out that crumbling asphalt pads at campsites pose challenges for accessibility.
Sites SizeSites range in size to accommodate tents, RVs, and group camping needs. Many users appreciated the spaciousness; one noted, 'Sites were large and well-maintained.' However, others highlighted the need for updating certain sites.
Sites PrivacyVaries by site. Some sites are described as 'spacious and private,' while others noted crowding during peak times.
Total Campsites47 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers recommend sites near water for privacy, such as 17, 35, and 33.
Best CampsitesSite 35 praised for its isolation and scenic location.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
- Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights during a visit
- 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Occupancy at each campsite is limited to ten persons.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate larger groups but exact numbers are not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites feature electric hookups, picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern posts.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen March 1 through December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov, phone, and mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not explicitly stated.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before scheduled arrival. Late cancellations (starting midnight 1 day prior to check-in) incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of 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.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of activities, including water sports, birding, mountain biking, hiking, and fishing. The large lake allows for jet skiing, water skiing, and swimming. Wildlife viewing is another highlight, with the rare Red-cockaded woodpecker found in the surrounding forest.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available but are better in nearby areas like the Bannister Wildlife Management Area, which has designated trails for exploring.Fishing
Fishing is excellent for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish. Frequent fishing tournaments enhance its appeal. One user described it as 'the best catfishing lake in the U.S.'Swimming
The lake offers swimming, and there is a designated swim area. However, one user noted that the swimming area is closed from October to March.Biking
Biking is available within the park, but some users reported loose dogs outside the park hindering biking activities.Boating
Boating is popular with a boat ramp available, but some users expressed concerns about the lack of a dock and facilities for boaters.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, including eagles, otters, and the endangered Red-cockaded woodpecker.Water Sports
Jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are common water activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be confined to fire rings.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsMention of dead trees that could fall on campers. Wildlife like raccoons pose minor nuisance.
Active alertsNo current alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4 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
Emergency services information is not explicitly provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but some users reported issues like overflowing garbage. One said, 'The trash had not been picked up in a while, and it smelled horrible.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to Sam Rayburn Reservoir, multiple waterfront sites available.
Common complaintsNegative reviews highlight power issues, deteriorating sites, and lack of amenities like docks and sewer hookups. Positive reviews praise cleanliness and peaceful ambiance. Some users report theft concerns.
HostCamp hosts generally described as friendly and helpful, though some reviews detail instances of rudeness and lack of support.
Campground Map
7696 RR 255 WEST, JASPER, TX, 75951-9598, USA
Driving directionsFrom Zavalla, TX, take State Hwy 147 northeast for 1/4 mile, then turn north on FM 2109, go 8 miles to FM 2801. Turn right (east) on FM 2801 and go 2 miles to the park entrance. Follow signs into the campground.
Access via paved roads. Seasonal road conditions and closures are not mentioned.Nearby places
Zavalla, TX is approximately 10 miles away.
Nearby supplies
The campground vicinity does not mention specific supply locations for groceries or camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.2
261 reviews
Hanks Creek is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Mixed reviews. Many campers praised the peaceful atmosphere and fishing opportunities, but others reported issues with outdated facilities, lack of maintenance, and challenges with refunds and booking.
Review Summaries
Based on 261 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciated the spacious sites, natural beauty, friendly hosts, and excellent fishing opportunities.
Based on 261 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent complaints include broken amenities such as docks and showers, poor cell reception, maintenance issues, and unresponsive customer service.
Based on 261 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood and bug spray. Check site conditions as some have crumbling pads or overgrown grass.
Based on 261 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter and spring saw positive reviews for quiet and peaceful stays. Summer complaints were about high grass and facilities issues.
Based on 261 reviewsCamper Quotes
'The fishing was great, and the park was quiet.' - User JIM H. 'Bathrooms were locked, and showers didn’t work.' - User ASHLEY L.
Based on 261 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Campsite 17 received praise for its lake view but had a sloped pad. Campsite 39 had electrical issues, and Campsite 35 was highlighted as spacious and private.
Based on 261 reviewsAccessibility Features
Crumbling asphalt pads were noted as problematic for campers with mobility issues.
Based on 261 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Frequent issues with loose dogs roaming the park. 'Intimidating, especially trying to walk my own leashed dogs.' - User ELLEN R.
Based on 261 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025