Recreation

The National Forests in Texas provide a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities! There are dozens of developed recreation areas and trailheads, offering camping experiences ranging from highly developed to primitive.  Camping is offered on a first-come, first-served basis in developed recreation areas, and some larger or more popular areas (Ratcliff Lake, Cagle, Double Lake), offer reservations through www.recreation.gov.  Forest visitors can now camp up to 28 days at selected recreation areas in the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas.  Click here to see this list of sites that offer the extended 28-day camping.

 

There is a day-use fee at highly developed areas with swimming or boating facilities. Campground facilities generally include tent pads, picnic tables, parking spurs for trailers, lantern posts, grills, potable water, and toilets.

View the  Recreation Matrix  to see the amenities that the campgrounds have to offer.

Other helpful information

Forest Visitor Map Finder | Outdoor Adventures tabloid  |  NFGT Hunting Guide tabloid  |  Hunting FAQs  |  Hunter Camp Maps | Annual Day-Use Pass Brochure | Outdoor Tips

Links of interest:

Recreation.gov | National Park Service | Texas Parks & Wildlife

Current Recreation Conditions

Spotlights

Ratcliff Lake: (936) 655-2299

USFS Volunteer Opportunity

The Davy Crockett National Forest is seeking interested candidates to volunteer as campground hosts at Ratcliff Lake Recreational Area. [Read more]

 

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Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area was built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It surrounds a picturesque 45-acre lake that was once a log pond and a source of water for the Central Coal and Coke Company sawmill which operated from 1902 to 1920. The area offers opportunities for camping, picnicking, swimming, fishing and hiking. The Four C National Recreation Trail is 20 miles and originates in the Ratcliff Recreation Area and goes to the Neches Bluff Overlook.

~ Recreation Area Map ~ 

Forest visitors can now camp up to 28 days at selected recreation areas in the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas.   Extended camping is offered at:

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area - Sites: 7, 9, 16, 20, 26, 32, 43, and 45

For more information call 936-655-2299.

Black Creek Lake: (940) 627-5475

Located on the north shore of the 35-acre Black Creek Lake, Black Creek Recreation Area has a picnic area and boat launch facility. The area also has walk-in camping sites available.