How much does camping cost at Townsend?

Camping fees at Townsend range from $3/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Townsend first-come first-served or reservation?

Townsend accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Townsend before I book?

Yes! Townsend has 1 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Townsend?

Townsend is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Townsend?

Townsend does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Townsend have?

Townsend has 10 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Townsend?

Pets are not allowed at Townsend. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

Townsend

3.67

6 reviews

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Summer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping

Real-Time Availability

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Quick Facts

197 ft

Price

$3/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Open from January 1,...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on null Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

197 ft

Price

$3/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Open from January 1,...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on null Official Website

Get Directions

Townsend

$3.00 - $3.00 / night

Campsite Fees

ScanPay 1: $3.00; ScanPay 2: $3.00; ScanPay 3: $3.00; ScanPay 4: $3.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in...

No paid fee categories listed.

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Campground Map

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Townsend

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Weather at Townsend

Best Time to Camp at Townsend

Best season: summer. Summer offers the best access to Sam Rayburn Reservoir for peak fishing and boating when water temperatures are warm and fish are active; expect daytime highs typically in the mid-80s to mid-90s°F with muggy humidity and nighttime lows in the mid-60s to low 70s°F. This is when the lake is most usable for long days on the water, bank fishing, and paddling, though afternoons can bring short, pop-up thunderstorms and occasional tropical storm impacts. Plan for moderate crowds on weekends (weekdays/ Peak months: June, July, May, September

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.5 / 5

Peak season for fishing/boating; warm, humid summers but primitive comforts lacking.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025. First-come, first-served availability begins on June 20, 2025.

About Townsend

Townsend is a free primitive campground in the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas, set at low elevation near Sam Rayburn Reservoir. This very small site offers basic amenities like fire rings and picnic tables, operating seasonally during peak summer months when the lake is most active for fishing and boating. Campers value the seclusion and direct water access, though maintenance can be inconsistent and some loops may be closed.

Townsend Campground caters to tent camping and offers basic facilities. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not require reservations for many sites.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the best access to Sam Rayburn Reservoir for peak fishing and boating when water temperatures are warm and fish are active; expect daytime highs typically in the mid-80s to mid-90s°F with muggy humidity and nighttime lows in the mid-60s to low 70s°F. This is when the lake is most usable for long days on the water, bank fishing, and paddling, though afternoons can bring short, pop-up thunderstorms and occasional tropical storm impacts. Plan for moderate crowds on weekends (weekdays/ Peak months: June, July, May, September

Elevation197 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits under a canopy of pines and hardwoods at 197 feet elevation, close to the 114,500-acre Sam Rayburn Reservoir. The Neches River Basin shapes the surrounding landscape, creating a mix of rolling hills and water access. The forest itself covers 153,179 acres across four counties, with the reservoir's shoreline defining much of the area's character. It's quiet and secluded, though reviews note the trade-off is limited infrastructure and upkeep.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or cabins are available at Townsend Campground.

Programs & ActivitiesThere are no mentions of cultural or educational programs at the campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

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Guests Allowed Per Site

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Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsPayments may be made on-site using the Scan and Pay feature available via the Recreation.gov mobile app.

AccessibilityAccessible boat ramps and parking areas are available. Other accessibility features are not explicitly described.

Site SizeCampsites are generally standard in size, but further details are missing.

PrivacyCampsites offer limited privacy. User reviews describe the campground as "secluded and peaceful," but also mention the limited number of campsites (fewer than 10).

Total Campsites10 campsites

Recommended SitesConsider checking the condition of picnic tables and campsites upon arrival, as maintenance is inconsistent. Sites closer to the lake may offer better views but be prepared for a lack of amenities.

Need help booking Townsend?

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Recreation.gov Guide

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Townsend Campground offers a minimalist camping experience with basic amenities. The campground includes picnic tables, parking areas, accessible boat ramps, campfire rings, grills, and lantern posts. "Trash collection" facilities are also available on-site. However, amenities like showers, flush toilets, and potable water are absent, which is corroborated by user reviews. For instance, one user commented, "No water, no restrooms or porta potties." This lack of maintenance and facilities seems to have been a long-standing issue as another user noted, "All maintenance has ceased years ago, showers and bathrooms removed."

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Campers at Townsend can engage in activities such as boating, fishing, and tent camping. The campground features a boat ramp and picnic areas, making it suitable for outdoor leisure. Wildlife viewing opportunities are not explicitly mentioned, but the serene and wooded location in Angelina National Forest naturally supports such activities.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. User reviews confirm the absence of restroom facilities: "No water, no restrooms or porta potties."

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

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Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

3.7

6 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Townsend has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, the reviews suggest that Townsend Campground offers a peaceful and secluded experience but suffers from neglect and lack of maintenance. Many users appreciate the natural beauty and access to fishing and boating, but lament the absence of basic amenities such as water, restrooms, and electricity.

Review Summaries

Based on 6 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers praised the campground's seclusion and peacefulness. One user mentioned, "I like going here because it's secluded and peaceful." The proximity to Lake Sam Rayburn for fishing and boating is...

Based on 6 reviews

Common Concerns

Recurring complaints include the lack of maintenance, as highlighted by "All maintenance has ceased years ago," and the absence of essential amenities like water and restrooms: "No water, no...

Based on 6 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific site reviews are limited, but the campground reportedly has less than 10 campsites. Users mentioned varying conditions, with some sites being littered or poorly maintained.

Based on 6 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to bring their own water and electricity sources. One user suggested, "No water or electricity hookups so take your own."

Based on 6 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground's year-round availability makes it usable in different seasons, but its lack of amenities may make it less comfortable during extreme weather conditions.

Based on 6 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Our family's have camped and fished at Townsend Park for around 35 years." 2. "The park needs a lot of TLC, but it is really a beautiful place to camp." 3. "Made us wonder what we were paying...

Based on 6 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is generally supported through boat ramps and parking areas, but the lack of restroom facilities may pose challenges for individuals with disabilities.

Based on 6 reviews

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Go if

You want secluded, no-cost camping with easy lake access for fishing and don't need hookups or services.

Skip if

You need water, electricity, reliable maintenance, or guaranteed open camping loops.

Nearby Campgrounds

7696 RR 255 WEST, JASPER, TX, 75951-9598, USA

Hanks Creek sits on Sam Rayburn Reservoir near Jasper, offering electric and water hookups for tent and RV campers who come for bass and crappie fishing. The mid-sized park operates seasonally during peak months with showers, flush toilets, and a dump station. Spacious sites and quiet hours make it popular with anglers and families looking for a peaceful lakeside stay.