Angelina National Forest Map, Camping, Cabins, Hiking Trail

If you are looking for a place to enjoy nature and have some outdoor fun, you might want to check out the Angelina National Forest in Texas. This forest covers over 150,000 acres of land and offers a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on the Angelina National Forest map, camping, cabins, and hiking trails. You will learn about the best places to visit, the amenities and facilities available, the fees and regulations, and the tips and safety precautions to make your trip a memorable one.

Consider reading: Top 10 Best Things to Do in Angelina County

Angelina National Forest Map, Hours, and Price

Angelina National Forest is open year-round, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, some facilities and services may have different operating hours and seasons, depending on the weather and demand.

For example, the forest offices are open Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except on federal holidays.

The campgrounds, picnic areas, boat ramps, and trails may also have varying hours and seasons. It is advisable to check the forest website or call the forest offices before visiting to get the latest information on the availability and conditions of the facilities and services.

Use this Angelina National Forest Map for your visit.

There is no entrance fee to visit Angelina National Forest, but some activities and facilities may require a fee or a permit. For example, camping fees range from $5 to $20 per night, depending on the campground and the amenities.

Consider reading: Inks Lake State Park Texas Map, Camping, Cabins, Fishing, Activities, Amenities, Reviews

Angelina National Forest Camping

Angelina National Forest invites nature lovers to explore its diverse camping experiences, offering options that cater to everyone from adventure seekers to families looking for a comfortable outdoor stay.

The forest is home to four primary campgrounds: Boykin Springs, Caney Creek, Harvey Creek, and Sandy Creek. Each site boasts unique facilities and natural attractions, ensuring visitors find the perfect spot for their camping adventure.

Campground Amenities and Activities

• Amenities: Campers can expect a range of facilities including restrooms, showers, potable water, and electrical hookups, alongside picnic tables, fire rings, and grills.
• Recreational Features: Enjoy access to boat ramps, fishing piers, designated swimming areas, and family-friendly playgrounds.
• Accommodations: Whether you’re pitching a tent, towing a trailer, or driving an RV, there’s a spot for you. Note that size limitations may apply.

Reservations and Fees

• Booking: Secure your spot at the official website, with the majority of campgrounds welcoming guests on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Camping Fees: Rates are affordable, typically ranging from $5 to $20 per night, varying by campground and selected amenities.

Dispersed and Wilderness Camping

For those seeking solitude and a more primitive experience, Angelina National Forest offers dispersed camping areas along Forest Roads 303, 313, and 314, and within the Turkey Hill and Upland Island Wilderness areas.

These spots are ideal for self-sufficient campers ready to embrace the wilderness, with no services provided and a strong emphasis on the Leave No Trace principles to preserve natural beauty.

Consider reading: Longhorn Cavern State Park Hours, Tickets, Camping, Hiking Trails, Hotels

Angelina National Forest Cabins

For those seeking a blend of comfort and nature in Angelina National Forest, the forest’s cabin accommodations offer the perfect escape. Nestled within this scenic haven are two distinct cabin options: the historical CCC cabins and the contemporary modern cabins, each providing a unique way to experience the tranquility of the forest.

Historical CCC Cabins

• Location: Situated at Boykin Springs, these cabins are historical treasures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
• Features: Embrace the rustic charm with amenities like electricity, heating, air conditioning, a cozy fireplace, a fully-equipped kitchen, a bathroom, and a porch.
• Capacity: Designed to comfortably accommodate up to four guests.

Modern Cabins

• Location: Found at Caney Creek and Harvey Creek, these cabins offer a more contemporary stay amidst nature.
• Features: Enjoy modern comforts including electricity, heating, air conditioning, a kitchen, a bathroom, a living room, and a deck for outdoor relaxation.
• Capacity: Spacious enough to welcome up to six guests.

Booking and Fees

• Reservations: Easily book your cabin retreat online via Recreation.gov or by phone, ensuring your spot in this natural paradise.
• Rental Fees: Affordable luxury in nature, with rates ranging from $50 to $75 per night, varying by cabin type and season.

Angelina National Forest Trail

Angelina National Forest has several trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and OHV riding. The trails vary in length, difficulty, and scenery, and offer different experiences for visitors. Some of the trails are:

• Sawmill Hiking Trail: This is a 5.5-mile loop trail that takes you through the forest and to the historic Aldridge Sawmill site, where you can see the remains of a once-thriving timber industry. The trail also offers scenic views of the river and the lake. The trail is rated as moderate and is open to hikers and bikers.
• Bouton Lake Trail: This is a 2.8-mile loop trail that circles around Bouton Lake, a 20-acre lake that was created by the CCC in the 1930s. The trail is rated as easy and is open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. The trail offers views of the lake and the surrounding forest.
• Turkey Hill Wilderness Trail: This is a 9.6-mile loop trail that traverses the Turkey Hill Wilderness, a 5,614-acre area that is designated for primitive recreation. The trail is rated as difficult and is open to hikers and horseback riders.
• East Texas Multiple Use Trail: This is a 50-mile network of trails that is open to hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and OHV riders. The trails are located in the Bannister Wildlife Management Area and have different difficulty levels and terrain types.

These are just some of the trails in Angelina National Forest. There are many more trails to discover and enjoy in the forest. For more information on the trails, visit the forest website or contact the forest offices.

Consider reading: Stephen F Austin State Park Map, Hours, Price, Camping, Cabin, Trails, Review

What to Expect at Angelina National Forest

Angelina National Forest is a sanctuary of natural beauty, rich history, and diverse ecosystems, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Here’s what visitors can anticipate during their journey through this majestic forest:

Diverse Landscapes

• Pine and Hardwood Forests: Wander through towering pines and dense hardwood areas, showcasing the forest’s ecological variety.
• Wetlands and Grasslands: Discover the vital ecosystems that provide habitat for numerous species and contribute to the forest’s biodiversity.
• Lakes: Enjoy the serene beauty of the forest’s lakes, perfect for fishing, boating, or simply relaxing by the water.

Wildlife Encounters

Expect to encounter a wide array of wildlife, from the skies above to the forest floor. The area is home to:

• Birds: From migratory species to local inhabitants, birdwatchers can delight in the rich avian diversity.
• Mammals and Reptiles: Keep an eye out for the forest’s mammal and reptile residents, each playing a crucial role in the ecosystem.
• Amphibians and Insects: Discover the smaller, yet equally fascinating, creatures that thrive in the forest’s varied habitats.

Cultural and Historical Insights

Angelina National Forest’s history is as rich as its landscapes, offering insights into:

• Native American Heritage: Learn about the tribes that once roamed these lands, their culture, and their legacy.
• Spanish Explorers: Trace the paths of early explorers who ventured through the region.
• Timber Industry and CCC: Delve into the forest’s pivotal role in the timber industry and the contributions of the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

Activities and Recreation

The forest caters to a wide range of interests and activity levels, offering:

• Outdoor Adventures: From hiking and biking trails to water-based activities, there’s no shortage of ways to explore the forest’s natural beauty.
• Relaxation and Leisure: Find tranquility among nature, whether it’s picnicking in a serene setting or stargazing under the clear night sky.

How to Reach Angelina National Forest

Nestled in East Texas, Angelina National Forest is an accessible getaway from major cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin. Here’s a streamlined guide to help you plan your journey to this natural retreat:

By Car

• Main Routes: Utilize major highways including US Highway 69, US Highway 96, State Highway 63, State Highway 147, and State Highway 103 for direct access.
• Forest Roads: For closer exploration, Forest Road 313, Forest Road 303, and Forest Road 314 lead to various forest areas. Be mindful of road conditions, which can vary with weather and seasons. Checking the forest’s official website or contacting forest offices for current road statuses is advised.

By Bus

• Nearest Towns: Lufkin, Jasper, Nacogdoches, and San Augustine serve as gateways to the forest, with bus services provided by Greyhound, Trailways, and local providers. Upon arrival, local taxis, shuttles, or buses can be utilized for final transit to the forest. It’s important to review bus schedules and local transport options in advance due to potential limitations.

By Plane

• Airports: Angelina County Airport (Lufkin), Jasper County Airport (Jasper), and East Texas Regional Airport (Longview) are the nearest, supported by airlines like American, United, and Southwest. Car rental or local transport services from these airports can facilitate the remainder of your journey to the forest. Confirm flight schedules and transport availability ahead of time to ensure a smooth trip.

Things to Do at Angelina National Forest

Angelina National Forest is a place where you can do many things to have fun and enjoy nature. Here are some of the things you can do at the forest:

• Camping: You can camp at one of the several campgrounds or dispersed camping areas in the forest, where you can sleep under the stars and enjoy the sounds of nature. You can also rent one of the cabins in the forest, where you can have a more comfortable and cozy stay. Camping is a great way to experience the forest and connect with nature.
• Hiking: You can hike on one of the several trails in the forest, where you can explore the different landscapes, wildlife, and historical sites of the forest. You can also hike in the two wilderness areas in the forest, where you can have a more primitive and adventurous experience. Hiking is a great way to exercise and discover the forest.
• Fishing: You can fish in the Angelina River or the Sam Rayburn Reservoir, where you can catch many species of fish, such as largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish. You can also enjoy boating, kayaking, canoeing, or swimming in the clear water. Fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy the water.
• Hunting: You can hunt for deer, squirrel, turkey, duck, and other game animals in the forest, especially in the Bannister Wildlife Management Area, where you can also hunt for feral hogs and bullfrogs. You can also enjoy birdwatching and wildlife viewing in the forest, where you can spot many species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Hunting is a great way to challenge yourself and appreciate the wildlife.
• Other activities: You can also do other activities in the forest, such as biking, horseback riding, OHV riding, picnicking, geocaching, photography, and more. You can also visit the nearby attractions, such as the Sam Rayburn House Museum, the Texas Forestry Museum, the Ellen Trout Zoo, and the Nacogdoches Historic District. There are many things to do at Angelina National Forest to suit your interests and needs.

Angelina National Forest Nearby Places to Visit

Angelina National Forest is not only a destination in itself, but also a gateway to other places to visit in the region. Here are some of the nearby places to visit from the forest:

• Sam Rayburn House Museum: This is the historic home of Sam Rayburn, one of the most influential and longest-serving speakers of the U.S. House of Representatives. The museum showcases his life and legacy, as well as the history and culture of the region. The museum is located in Bonham, about 20 miles west of the forest.
• Texas Forestry Museum: This is a museum that tells the story of the forest industry in Texas, from the early days of logging to the present day of conservation and management. The museum features exhibits, artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that illustrate the history and importance of the forest industry. The museum is located in Lufkin, about 30 miles south of the forest.
• Ellen Trout Zoo: This is a zoo that houses over 700 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, giraffes, and more. The zoo also has a miniature train that takes visitors around the zoo and the adjacent park. The zoo is located in Lufkin, about 30 miles south of the forest.
• Nacogdoches Historic District: This is a historic district that preserves the oldest town in Texas, dating back to the 18th century. The district features over 50 historic buildings and sites, such as the Old Stone Fort, the Sterne-Hoya House, the Durst-Taylor House, and the Oak Grove Cemetery. The district also has shops, restaurants, and museums that showcase the history and culture of the town. The district is located in Nacogdoches, about 40 miles north of the forest.

These are some of the nearby places to visit from Angelina National Forest. There are many more places to explore and enjoy in the region. You can use the forest as a base to visit these places, or you can make a day trip or a weekend getaway from the forest.

Consider reading: Ellen Trout Zoo Hours, Tickets, Price, Things to Do, Reviews

Final Thoughts on Angelina National Forest

Angelina National Forest is a national forest in East Texas that offers a variety of recreational opportunities for nature lovers. It was established in 1936 and is named after a Native American woman who guided a Spanish explorer. The forest is home to diverse ecosystems and wildlife, including some endangered and threatened species.

The forest has several facilities and services, such as campgrounds, cabins, trails, boat ramps, fishing piers, and more. The forest also has several rules and regulations, as well as potential hazards and risks, that visitors should be aware of and follow. The forest is also close to other places to visit in the region, such as museums, zoos, and historic sites.

Angelina National Forest is a place where you can have fun and enjoy the beauty and diversity of nature, as well as the history and culture of the region. It is a place that you should visit at least once in your lifetime.

Thank you for reading this blog post. I hope you learned something new and interesting about Angelina National Forest. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me. Have a great day! 

FAQs on Angelina National Forest

Can you hunt Angelina National Forest?

Yes, hunting is permitted in Angelina National Forest. However, during deer hunting season, all campers and hunters are required to stay in designated campsites or developed recreation areas for safety and to abide by forest regulations. Ensure you follow all local hunting guidelines and obtain necessary permits.

What are the 4 National Forests in Texas?

The four National Forests in Texas are Angelina, Davy Crockett, Sabine, and Sam Houston. Located in East Texas, they form a significant part of the region’s public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service, offering diverse ecosystems and recreational opportunities.

How many acres is Angelina National Forest?

Angelina National Forest encompasses 153,180 acres in East Texas. This vast area of natural beauty spans several counties, offering visitors an extensive space for outdoor activities and wildlife exploration.

What is the largest forest in Texas?

Sam Houston National Forest holds the title as the largest forest in Texas, enveloping over 163,000 acres. Stretching across three counties, it is a haven for outdoor activities and diverse wildlife, representing Texas’s rich forest ecosystem at its grandest scale.