Sandy Creek
4.49565 reviews114 Private Road 5045
Sandy Creek
$10.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season costs range from $10 for standard nonelectric sites to $45 for group shelters. Reservation fees are $8 online, $9 via the contact center,...
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Standard Site Fee$18.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$48.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider1 (877) 444-6777
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of B.A. Steinhagen Lake in southeast Texas, Sandy Creek Park offers an unforgettable escape into nature's embrace. This beloved Corps of Engineers campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning lakeside vistas and generously sized campsites that provide the perfect basecamp for adventure. Whether you're casting a line into the tranquil waters, exploring the lake by boat, or pedaling along scenic trails, Sandy Creek delivers the authentic East Texas camping experience that keeps families returning year after year.
Sandy Creek accommodates a variety of camping styles, including RV camping with water and electric hookups, tent camping, and group camping. Primitive camping options are limited, and there are no cabins or glamping facilities.
Historical SignificanceSandy Creek Park sits at the heart of a remarkable conservation story, where the boundaries of Martin Dies Jr. State Park and the vast Angelina-Neches/Dam B Wildlife Management Area converge. This strategic location places campers at the crossroads of some of East Texas's most treasured natural areas. The surrounding lands tell tales of conservation success, where carefully maintained hiking trails wind through recovered forests and paddling routes follow ancient waterways. This rich ecosystem serves as a living classroom, showcasing the delicate balance between recreation and preservation that defines modern outdoor spaces.
Weather and SeasonsSandy Creek Park showcases the best of Texas weather throughout the year. Summer brings that signature Southern warmth and humidity, perfect for lake activities and evening campfire gatherings. As autumn arrives, the temperatures mellow into camping perfection, with crisp mornings giving way to sun-drenched afternoons under brilliant blue skies. Winter offers a gentle respite with mild temperatures that make year-round camping a joy, while spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and ideal conditions for outdoor exploration. Though occasional rainfall refreshes the landscape, most days greet campers with the clear, expansive Texas sky that makes this region famous.
ElevationThe gentle topography of Sandy Creek Park creates an accessible camping experience where the landscape unfolds in subtle variations rather than dramatic changes in elevation.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into the enchanting world of the East Texas Pineywoods, where towering pines create a natural cathedral above your campsite. Sandy Creek Park immerses visitors in a thriving ecosystem where dense forests blend seamlessly with the lake's edge, creating a tapestry of pine-hardwood forests that shelter an impressive array of wildlife. Early risers are often rewarded with glimpses of white-tailed deer grazing in meadow clearings, while playful squirrels and cottontail rabbits provide endless entertainment throughout the day. The lake attracts magnificent waterfowl, turning each sunset into a spectacular show as birds return to their roosts across the shimmering water.
Geological RegionSandy Creek Park rests within the legendary East Texas Pineywoods, a geological wonderland where ancient pine uplands meet rich bottomland hardwoods. This unique region showcases nature's artistry through its distinctive pine-hardwood mixed forests, where stately loblolly pines stand shoulder-to-shoulder with mighty oaks and sweet gums. The landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where sandy soils and gentle rolling terrain create the perfect conditions for both the diverse forest ecosystem and exceptional camping experiences that define southeast Texas.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited. Some campers report difficulties due to uneven terrain and tall grass around campsites. Specific issues, such as a 12-inch drop-off at one site, were noted by reviewers.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, accommodating large RVs and multiple tents. Pull-through and back-in options are available.
Sites PrivacyCampsites provide varying levels of privacy, with some being densely spaced and others more secluded. Complaints included narrow spacing in certain loops, such as site #56 being only 10 feet from its neighbor.
Total Campsites71 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lakeside sites for sunset views. Avoid sites 8 and 56 due to proximity to neighboring sites or inadequate maintenance, as highlighted in user reviews.
Best CampsitesUsers frequently mention sites 21, 22, and 44 for their proximity to the lake and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is allowed after the reservation start date.
Check-out
Checkout must occur by 1:30 PM the day after the scheduled reservation.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy per site is 8 people, including adults and children.
Groups
Group campsites include a shelter and can accommodate multiple families with ample space for activities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features loops with back-in and pull-through sites, many offering waterfront access.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak reservable season starts January 1 and ends December 31 each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityReserved campsites are held until checkout time the day after the scheduled arrival. Sites not occupied by then are considered no-shows and made available.
Cancellation PolicyReservations canceled within 14 days of arrival incur a $10 service fee and forfeit the first night’s fee. No refunds are given on-site.
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
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Sandy Creek Park offers diverse recreational activities such as boating, fishing, biking, and wildlife viewing. The park's location on Steinhagen Lake provides ample opportunities for water-based activities, while the trail system connects to nearby Martin Dies Jr. State Park, expanding options for hiking and paddling.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available and are especially scenic, connecting to nearby Martin Dies Jr. State Park. Trails vary in length and difficulty, making them suitable for families and casual walkers.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie being common catches. "Nice simple quiet pull away from the city or town life," one reviewer noted.Biking
Biking opportunities include 3-5 mile routes on the park's road system and trails connecting Martin Dies Jr. State Park. Campers frequently praise the biking options.Boating
The park provides access to Steinhagen Lake for boating, canoeing, and kayaking. Boat ramps are available, and rentals can be arranged.Wildlife viewing
White-tailed deer, squirrels, ducks, and other species are frequently spotted. "Great place to relax and view birds and other wildlife," a user commented.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular on Steinhagen Lake, with easy access from the park's boat ramps.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted at designated fire pits. Campers are advised to bring their own firewood due to restrictions on transporting wood across counties.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCampers should be cautious of fire ants, alligators, and mosquitoes. Fire ant stings can be dangerous for small children, and alligators have been spotted near the lake.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 63%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Jasper, Texas, approximately 10 miles away, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities need improvement. Some loops lack adequate bins, forcing campers to drive across the park to dispose of garbage.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated along B.A. Steinhagen Lake, offering easy access to fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include poor restroom cleanliness, lack of hot water in showers, and noise disturbances from nearby campers.
HostCampground hosts are typically described as helpful and friendly, although some reviews note inconsistent behavior.
Campground Map
114 Private Road 5045
Driving directionsFrom Jasper, Texas, take US-190 west for 10 miles. Turn south on FM 777 and travel 2 miles to County Road 155. Turn west and continue 2.5 miles, following signs into the campground.
Roads leading to the campground include paved sections; however, reviews frequently mention narrow and poorly maintained county roads with significant potholes. One user suggested using County Road 156 instead of FM 777 and County Road 155 for easier access.Nearby places
Woodville (~20 miles, 25 minutes), Jasper (~10 miles, 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, groceries, and fuel can be obtained in Jasper (~10 miles away), including a Walmart and other stores.
Camper Reviews
4.5
565 reviews
Sandy Creek is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Sandy Creek Park highlight its peaceful environment, scenic lake views, and spacious campsites. However, there are frequent complaints about restroom cleanliness and lack of maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 565 reviews
What Campers Love
Many campers praised the park's quiet atmosphere, beautiful sunsets, and the friendliness of park hosts. "The sites are large with paved, mostly level parking, and plenty of room," one review noted.
Based on 565 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include dirty restrooms, lukewarm showers, and unmaintained campsites. Issues such as unleashed dogs and noisy neighbors were also mentioned.
Based on 565 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood and a tablecloth for picnic tables. Be prepared for bugs and check your site assignment carefully to avoid proximity issues.
Based on 565 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are the most popular times to visit due to mild weather. Summer sees an increase in bugs and heat, while winter offers quieter camping but colder nights.
Based on 565 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The park itself is nice, and our weekend was enjoyable, however, when we were leaving the gate closed as we were driving through and scratched the side of our camper." - Shannon D. "Nice campsites...
Based on 565 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #56 is poorly spaced, only 10 feet from its neighbor. Site #14 is praised for its seclusion. Waterfront sites like #22 and #23 are highly recommended for their scenic views.
Based on 565 reviewsAccessibility Features
Some users with mobility issues found the park challenging due to uneven terrain and lack of paved paths.
Based on 565 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but unleashed dogs are a recurring issue. "We bring a dog and its on a leash always when outside, but there were 6-10 dogs running loose," one user commented.
Based on 565 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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