Buckhorn Creek

4.47

880 reviews

2669 FM 726, Jefferson, TX 75657

Family FriendlyScenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Winter Camping Texas Best Campgrounds Texas RV Camping Texas +3 more

Quick Facts

253 ft

Price

$18 - $44/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

95 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

253 ft

Price

$18 - $44/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

95 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Buckhorn Creek

$18.00 - $44.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range from $18 (Tent-Only Nonelectric) to $44 (RV Electric or Standard Electric). Additional reservation service fees may apply ($8 online, $9...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$44.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

903-665-8261

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What Campers Say

4.47

Recommended

Based on 880 reviews

201 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietlakestaff

"Reviews for Buckhorn Creek are mixed, with many praising the scenic beauty, spacious campsites, and friendly staff. Common complaints include outdated and unclean restroom facilities and the presence of litter or maintenance issues. The park is highly rated for its peaceful setting and recreational opportunities."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

2669 FM 726, Jefferson, TX 75657

Buckhorn Creek

2669 FM 726, Jefferson, TX 75657

Driving directionsFrom Jefferson, TX, travel 3.8 miles northwest on Highway 49. Turn left onto FM 729 and continue for 3.5 miles, then turn left again onto FM 726. Travel 2.5 miles. The park entrance is on the right.

Access via paved roads, suitable for RVs and vehicles. The entrance is clearly marked; however, some reviews suggest that signage could be improved.

Nearby places

Jefferson (approx. 3.8 miles, 10-minute drive)

Marshall (approx. 25 miles, 30-minute drive)

Longview (approx. 45 miles, 50-minute drive).

Nearby supplies

Groceries available at Brookshire’s in Jefferson

fuel stations along Highway 49 near FM 729

camping supplies may need to be procured in nearby cities like Marshall.

Best Time to Camp at Buckhorn Creek

Experience the gentle rhythm of East Texas seasons at Buckhorn Creek, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Winter brings crisp, dry days with refreshing breezes that make evening campfires especially inviting. As summer arrives, the warm Texas sun bathes the campground in golden light, though recent tree management has opened up the canopy for those who enjoy basking in the sunshine. The true magic happens during spring and fall, when mild temperatures create perfect camping weather – imagine waking to misty mornings over the lake in autumn or watching wildflowers bloom along the shoreline in spring.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Summer offers water activities but can be hot and reviews note loss of shade in places.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 14% in TX

Fall favored for mild temps and wildlife; strong eagle viewing in fall/winter.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 24% in TX

Spring favored for mild temperatures and vibrant wildlife activity.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Top 24% in TX

Open year-round; winter campers praised quiet, crisp dry days and eagle sightings.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round, reservations available during peak season (January 1 - December 31).
Current Alerts: Boil water notice affecting potable water in specific areas; ongoing maintenance reported.

About Buckhorn Creek

Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake O' the Pines, Buckhorn Creek Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of modern amenities and natural beauty. Whether you're pulling in with your RV to one of 57 fully-equipped hookup sites or pitching your tent at one of 38 secluded spots beneath the canopy, you'll find yourself immersed in the tranquil East Texas wilderness. The campground's thoughtfully varied site layouts ensure every camper finds their ideal spot, from waterfront locations with sweeping lake views to cozy forest hideaways. Modern restrooms with hot showers, convenient trash facilities, and lake access via the boat ramp and courtesy dock make this a comfortable basecamp for your adventures.

Buckhorn Creek accommodates various camping styles, including RV camping, standard tent sites, and primitive options.

Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure sits at the heart of a region rich with Texas history. Lake O' the Pines itself tells a story of human ingenuity, born from the construction of Ferrell's Bridge Dam as part of an ambitious flood control project for the Red River Basin. Just a short drive away, the historic towns of Jefferson and Marshall invite exploration with their preserved antebellum architecture, vibrant festivals, and tales of the Old South. These charming communities offer a perfect day trip opportunity, where you can stroll through living history before returning to your peaceful lakeside retreat.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of East Texas seasons at Buckhorn Creek, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Winter brings crisp, dry days with refreshing breezes that make evening campfires especially inviting. As summer arrives, the warm Texas sun bathes the campground in golden light, though recent tree management has opened up the canopy for those who enjoy basking in the sunshine. The true magic happens during spring and fall, when mild temperatures create perfect camping weather – imagine waking to misty mornings over the lake in autumn or watching wildflowers bloom along the shoreline in spring.

ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of East Texas creates natural amphitheaters and varied topography throughout the campground, offering sites at different levels for diverse camping experiences.

Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be captivated by the stunning natural tapestry of Lake O' the Pines, where 18,700 acres of sparkling water are embraced by 9,000 acres of protected land. Towering pine forests mingle with sturdy hardwoods to create a lush, emerald sanctuary that changes with the seasons. Morning mist rises from the lake's surface while herons wade in the shallows, and the rustling canopy overhead provides nature's soundtrack. This verdant landscape offers endless opportunities for photography, wildlife watching, and simply losing yourself in the beauty of the East Texas wilderness.

Geological RegionBuckhorn Creek Campground sits in the heart of the legendary Pineywoods, where East Texas reveals its most enchanting face. This unique ecological crossroads in the Ark-La-Tex region blends influences from Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana, creating a biodiversity hotspot unlike anywhere else in Texas. The Lake O' the Pines reservoir has transformed the ancient forest landscape into a water wonderland, where dense woodlands meet expansive waterways. Here, the geography tells the story of an ancient sea floor lifted into rolling hills, now clothed in pine and hardwood forests that shelter an abundance of wildlife and offer endless exploration opportunities.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Exact guest limit not stated.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutMultiple loops; RV sites primarily in R1 and R2, tent sites in T1 and T2. Loops vary in amenities and proximity to water.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov online, via mobile app, or contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability may vary based on occupancy; specific details not provided.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made at any time before arrival. Late cancellations will forfeit the first night's fee and incur a $10 penalty. Reservation fees are non-refundable.

AccessibilityThe campground includes paved roads and parking areas that improve accessibility. However, reviews do not provide specific details about ADA-compliant features.

Site SizeCampsites for RVs and tents are spacious, with standard and larger options available. Some sites include extra features like wooden decks.

PrivacyThe level of privacy varies by site. Some campers noted sites were 'too close together,' while others appreciated the spacious layouts.

Total Campsites95 campsites

Recommended SitesSites in R1 loop offer proximity to restrooms and scenic lake views; T1 loop tent sites recommended for access to primitive camping areas.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Buckhorn Creek offers a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and water sports. Birdwatchers are encouraged to bring binoculars to spot bald eagles and other species.

FishingFishing opportunities abound, with anglers targeting largemouth, spotted, and white bass, as well as crappie, catfish, and sunfish. Both boat fishing and shoreline options are available. A reviewer praised the 'excellent fishing and beautiful lake views.'

BoatingBoating is a popular activity, supported by the boat ramp and courtesy dock. The lake accommodates a variety of watercraft. One camper highlighted the 'nice and wide boat ramp for easy launching.'

Wildlife viewingPopular for birdwatching, including sightings of bald eagles, especially in fall and winter. A reviewer remarked, 'Bald eagles flying right over our camp were a highlight.'

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsAnt infestations reported at some sites (e.g., E123). Boil water notice ongoing for over a year in parts of the campground.

Active AlertsBoil water notice affecting potable water in specific areas; ongoing maintenance reported.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed in designated fire rings; firewood must be purchased locally.

Emergency ServicesClosest hospital is in Marshall, approximately 25 miles away. Emergency services and ranger station available on-site.

Trash & RecyclingTrash receptacles are located throughout the park. However, there are no specific mentions of recycling facilities.

Water FeaturesDirect access to Lake O' the Pines, including a boat ramp and courtesy docks.

Camp HostHosts frequently praised for friendliness and quick problem resolution, though some reviews noted inconsistent attitudes.

Weather at Buckhorn Creek

Reviews

4.5

880 reviews

Recommended

Buckhorn Creek is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews for Buckhorn Creek are mixed, with many praising the scenic beauty, spacious campsites, and friendly staff. Common complaints include outdated and unclean restroom facilities and the presence of litter or maintenance issues. The park is highly rated for its peaceful setting and recreational opportunities.

Review Summaries

Based on 880 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently mention the campground's quiet atmosphere, beautiful lake views, and well-maintained campsites. Many reviews also highlight the friendliness of the staff and the abundance of...

Based on 880 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback often centers around the maintenance of restrooms and showers, as well as issues like ants or tall grass on campsites. Some users also noted uneven or poorly marked sites and the...

Based on 880 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring insect repellent due to ants and other bugs. Consider camping in cooler seasons for ideal weather. Campers recommend sites with lake views, such as E140, which features a large wooden deck and...

Based on 880 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are favored for their mild temperatures and vibrant wildlife. Summer can be hot, and some reviews note a lack of shade due to tree removal. Winter campers appreciated the quiet...

Based on 880 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Beautiful park and well-maintained facilities.' 'Loved our site with a deck and lake view.' 'Bathrooms need work, but the park itself is great for camping.'

Based on 880 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site E140 is highlighted for its large wooden deck and lake views. Site E121 is popular for its waterfront location. Avoid E123 due to ant issues as noted by a user.

Based on 880 reviews