How much does camping cost at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area range from $15-$35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area 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 Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area before I book?

Yes! Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area has 6 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 Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area 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 Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Yes, Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Is there cell service at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Cell phone service at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area have?

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area has 56 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

Q: Can I have a campfire at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area: Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.33

426 reviews

18551 State Highway 7 East, KENNARD, TX 75487, USA

Top 16% in TXSummer

A-Report Card

Tent CampingSummer Destination

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Texas Tent Camping

Quick Facts

322 ft

Price

$15 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

56 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on U.S. Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

322 ft

Price

$15 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

56 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on U.S. Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

$15.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP SHELTER ELECTRIC: $35.00; GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC: $30.00; S and P Group tent: $30.00; S and P Standard: $20.00; S and P Tent: $15.00;...

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hookup Site Fee$20.00

Group Site Fee$30.00

Get Notified When Available

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Provider

936-655-2299

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

18551 State Highway 7 East, KENNARD, TX 75487, USA

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

18551 State Highway 7 East, KENNARD, TX 75487, USA

Nearby places

Kennard (approximately 5 miles), Ratcliff (approximately 7 miles), Lufkin (approximately 30 miles)

Weather at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

Current alerts(8)

ATVs or ORVs are not allowed on the ground in the recreation area or any other location on the Davy Crocket National Forest.
Amphitheater site has no tables or grills
Click here for information about National Forests and Grasslands in Texas
Limit one RV unit (fifth-wheel, motorhome, trailer or pop-up) or two tents per site; each extra vehicle is charged $5 and may need to parked in an additional parking area away from the camping loop.

Best Time to Camp at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

Best season: fall. Fall brings the most comfortable weather and the best mix of activities — daytime highs are typically in the mid-60s to low-80s°F (18–28°C) with crisp nights in the 40s–50s°F (4–12°C). This is prime time for hiking, mountain biking, fishing and paddling with fewer mosquitoes, lower humidity, and good water levels in Ratcliff Lake; foliage on oaks and understory plants adds subtle color without the summer crowds. Expect moderate weekend use (holidays busier) and be aware of deer hunting seasons — Peak months: October, November, April, May

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Top 16% in TX

Summer draws swimmers and lake activities though heat and higher crowds are noted.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area sits in the Davy Crockett National Forest near Kennard, operated by the U.S. Forest Service. This mid-sized campground offers electric and water hookups, flush toilets, and hot showers alongside a lake for swimming, fishing, and boating. Reviewers consistently praise the exceptionally clean facilities and well-maintained trails, though highway noise reaches some sites.

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area accommodates various camping styles, including tent camping, RV sites, and group shelters. Sites are spacious and equipped with amenities like electricity and water hookups.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall brings the most comfortable weather and the best mix of activities — daytime highs are typically in the mid-60s to low-80s°F (18–28°C) with crisp nights in the 40s–50s°F (4–12°C). This is prime time for hiking, mountain biking, fishing and paddling with fewer mosquitoes, lower humidity, and good water levels in Ratcliff Lake; foliage on oaks and understory plants adds subtle color without the summer crowds. Expect moderate weekend use (holidays busier) and be aware of deer hunting seasons — Peak months: October, November, April, May

Elevation322 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryLoblolly pines and oaks dominate the 160,000-acre forest, creating thick canopy cover over sandy soils formed by ancient river terraces. The campground sits at 322 feet elevation near the Neches and Trinity River basins. Ratcliff Lake anchors the recreation area, its 45 acres reflecting the surrounding pines and providing habitat for the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker. Reviewers consistently mention the natural beauty and peaceful environment, though the hum of Highway 7 is audible from some sites. Tree frogs and fish jumping at dusk add to the ambiance.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo large lodge or hotel-style accommodations are available at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area.

Programs & ActivitiesNo formal cultural or educational programs are offered at the campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Limit of one RV unit or two tents per site.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Limit of 8 guests per site.

Groups

The group shelter area can accommodate multiple tents or RV setups. User reviews noted the spaciousness and accessibility of group sites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityAccessibility features include spacious campsites, level driveways, and accessible picnic areas. User reviews noted, "Plenty of space between campsites" and "Driveways were level and easy to back into.

Site SizeSpacious sites accommodating RVs up to 50 feet with ample room for tents and vehicles.

PrivacyWell-spaced campsites offering privacy; users found the campground quiet and secluded. Reviews such as "Nicely spaced lots feels very private" highlight this aspect.

Total Campsites56 campsites

Recommended SitesFor privacy and lake views, choose tent sites in Lakeside Loop. Sites in Dogwood Loop are ideal for RVs with water and electricity hookups. Long hoses may be needed.

Best CampsitesSites 040 and 036 get mentioned for lake views. The Lakeside Loop puts you closest to the water. Arrive early for first-come, first-served spots on busy weekends.

Need help booking Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area offers a range of amenities suitable for family camping and outdoor recreation. The campground provides 56 campsites, including first-come, first-served and reservable options. Campsites in Dogwood Loop feature electrical hookups and can accommodate vehicles up to 50 feet. Flush toilets, hot and cold showers, and trash bins are available throughout the campground. Two picnic shelters and an amphitheater are reservable. The day-use area includes 17 single-family picnicking units, a swimming area, flush toilets, two wooden fishing piers, one earthen pier, one fishing platform, and a boat ramp. User reviews emphasize the cleanliness and maintenance of the facilities, with statements such as "Clean bathrooms and hot showers" and "Well-spaced campsites offering privacy."

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area provides various recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife observation. The campground features a designated swimming area, three hiking trails, and fishing piers. Visitors can also engage in hunting within the Davy Crockett National Forest. User reviews highlight the enjoyable hiking trails and lake activities, with direct quotes such as "Great trails and beautiful forest" and "Fishing in the lake was relaxing."

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.

Trash & RecyclingTrash bins are provided throughout the campground. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.

Cell CoverageCell phone service quality varies depending on the provider. AT&T users generally reported decent connectivity, while T-Mobile users experienced weaker signals. One review mentioned, "Cell signal for AT&T was okay, T-Mobile had very weak signal."

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

426 reviews

Recommended

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, spaciousness, and natural beauty. Positive sentiments dominate, with frequent praise for the well-maintained facilities and peaceful environment. Complaints include noise from nearby Highway 7, water hookup distances, and occasional restroom shortages.

Review Summaries

Based on 426 reviews

What Campers Love

Key positive aspects include clean and spacious campsites, friendly staff, well-maintained trails, and a peaceful environment. User quotes such as "Extremely clean facilities" and "Restrooms are the...

Based on 426 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints involve noise from Highway 7, overcrowding in RV areas by tent campers, shared water hookups necessitating long hoses, and occasional shortages of toilet paper. Reviews include comments...

Based on 426 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews indicate that Dogwood Loop is popular for RVs and offers electricity, while Lakeside Loop provides proximity to the lake but fewer restrooms. Site 36 was praised for its...

Based on 426 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips for visitors include bringing long water hoses for RVs, arriving early to secure first-come, first-served sites, and preparing for noise from Highway 7. Visitors also recommend exploring the...

Based on 426 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter reviews praise the quiet and less crowded conditions, while summer reviews highlight the swimming area and lake activities despite higher temperatures. Spring and fall are popular for hiking...

Based on 426 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Restrooms are the cleanest we've ever seen." 2. "The trails were well-marked and covered in soft pine needles." 3. "Kayak fishing was very relaxing." 4. "Campsites are large with plenty of room...

Based on 426 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility reviews emphasize well-spaced campsites and level driveways suitable for individuals with mobility concerns. Comments include "Driveways were level and easy to back into."

Based on 426 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Reviews from pet owners praise the spacious sites and shaded areas, suitable for dogs. One user noted, "Plenty of space for animals if you have a dog."

Based on 426 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

$15.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP SHELTER ELECTRIC: $35.00; GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC: $30.00; S and P Group tent: $30.00; S and P Standard: $20.00; S and P Tent: $15.00;...

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hookup Site Fee$20.00

Group Site Fee$30.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

936-655-2299

Go if

You want Forest Service camping with full hookups, swimming access, and spotless restrooms in East Texas piney woods.

Skip if

Highway noise bothers you or you need dedicated water hookups without sharing between sites.

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Campgrounds

National Forests and Grasslands in Texas

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

A-

Camper Report Card

How campers graded it

Rated higher than 93% of graded campgrounds

Graded on what 335 campers actually wrote - graded on 14 things that make or break a trip. Each topic is graded against every other campground on it - A is among the best, C about average. No star ratings.

Strengths

Grade A.Belonging
Grade A-.Cleanliness
Grade B+.Campsites

Watch-outs

Grade C.Rules & policies
Grade B-.Safety
Grade B-.Getting there

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Each topic is graded against every other campground on it; a topic campers liked never grades below C−. ± shows the 95% confidence range from the sample size.

How we grade →See how Texas grades overall

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