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  7. 514-D White Rock Horse Camp

514-D White Rock Horse Camp

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514-D White Rock Horse Camp Overview

Rating

Phone (936) 655-2299

Address Forest Service Road 551, Kennard, TX 75847, USA

Website https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/texas/recreation/514-d-white-rock-horse-camp-936-655-2299

Hours

514-D White Rock Horse Camp Location & Map

TexasHouston CountyKennardForest Service Road 551

514-D White Rock Horse Camp About

If you're a Texan looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature, especially with your equine companions, then 514-D White Rock Horse Camp is a destination you absolutely need to know about. Nestled within the expansive and beautiful Davy Crockett National Forest, this horse camp offers a unique and tranquil experience for campers and horseback riders alike. It’s a true gem for those seeking quiet outdoor adventures and a chance to explore the stunning natural landscapes that East Texas is famous for.

This isn't just any campground; it's specifically designed to cater to equestrian enthusiasts, providing direct access to a network of well-maintained trails. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to horse camping, 514-D White Rock Horse Camp offers a welcoming environment where you can unwind, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories. Many local Texans have already discovered the peaceful ambiance and fantastic riding opportunities here, making it a beloved spot for a quick weekend getaway or a longer, more immersive outdoor experience.

Local users consistently praise 514-D White Rock Horse Camp for its serene atmosphere and the quality of its riding trails. As one happy camper noted, it’s a "nice peaceful quiet place to camp and ride horses on maintained trails." Another reviewer highlighted its family appeal, stating, "My children loved the horse camp." These testimonials underscore the camp's suitability for both individual adventurers and families looking for a unique outdoor experience in East Texas.

Location and Accessibility

514-D White Rock Horse Camp is strategically located in Kennard, Texas, deep within the Davy Crockett National Forest. This prime location places it within easy reach for many Texans, offering a convenient escape without requiring extensive travel across the state. The address is Forest Service Road 551, Kennard, TX 75847, USA.

For those driving from surrounding areas, the camp is accessible via well-maintained Forest Service roads. From Crockett, you'll take Highway 7 East for approximately 11 miles to Forest Service Road 514 South. Continue on FSR 514 for about 10 miles to reach 514-D White Rock Horse Camp. While the camp is somewhat remote, which contributes to its peaceful atmosphere, the roads leading to it are generally suitable for vehicles towing trailers, including horse trailers. It’s always a good idea to check local road conditions, especially after heavy rains, to ensure a smooth journey.

Being part of the Davy Crockett National Forest means campers have direct access to a vast natural playground. The surrounding forest provides a rich environment for various outdoor activities beyond horseback riding, including hiking and wildlife observation, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of East Texas.

Services Offered

514-D White Rock Horse Camp provides essential services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for its visitors, particularly those with horses. While it maintains a rustic and natural feel, key amenities are available to support your camping and riding adventures.

  • Camping: The campground offers an open camping area, meaning there are no delineated individual campsites. This provides flexibility for campers to find a suitable spot, whether they prefer more secluded areas or to camp closer to others. It accommodates tent camping and is suitable for smaller trailers, though RVs may need levelers due to the dispersed nature of the sites.
  • Horse/Pack Animal Access: As a dedicated horse camp, 514-D White Rock permits horse and pack animals on site, making it an ideal base for equestrian expeditions.
  • Piney Creek Horse Trail Access: The camp serves as a direct access point to the extensive Piney Creek Horse Trail system. This is a primary draw for horse riders, offering miles of well-maintained trails for exploration.
  • Vault Toilets: For visitor convenience, vault toilets are available at the camp. It's important to note that potable water is not available at this site, so campers should plan to bring their own drinking water. Similarly, there are no restrooms or facilities directly along the horse trail, only at the designated camp areas like 514-D White Rock and Piney Creek Horse Camp.
  • Year-Round Operation: 514-D White Rock Horse Camp is open year-round, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, allowing for flexible planning of your outdoor adventures, regardless of the season.

Features / Highlights

What truly sets 514-D White Rock Horse Camp apart are its unique features and highlights, especially for those seeking an authentic outdoor experience with their horses in Texas.

  • Extensive Horse Trails: The primary highlight is its direct connection to the Piney Creek Horse Trail. This trail system spans a significant distance, offering diverse terrain and scenic views for riders of all experience levels. The trails are maintained, ensuring a safe and enjoyable riding experience through the forested landscape.
  • Peaceful and Quiet Environment: Many visitors praise the camp for its tranquility. Away from city noise and light pollution, it’s an ideal spot for stargazing and enjoying the natural sounds of the forest. This quietude contributes significantly to the relaxing atmosphere, allowing campers to truly de-stress and unwind.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Customer reviews indicate that the camp is well-suited for families. The opportunity to camp and ride horses together provides a unique bonding experience, and children often enjoy the immersive outdoor setting. It's a fantastic way to introduce younger generations to the joys of equestrian activities and nature.
  • Dispersed Camping: The open camping area allows for a more natural and less structured camping experience compared to campgrounds with designated, numbered sites. This can appeal to those who prefer more space and flexibility in setting up their camp, though it also means amenities are more basic.
  • Proximity to Nature: Being in the heart of the Davy Crockett National Forest, the camp offers ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural beauty of East Texas. The changing seasons bring different facets of beauty to the forest, from vibrant spring foliage to crisp autumn colors.
  • Affordable Access: The camp operates on a fee system that covers both camping and trail use, making it an economical option for outdoor recreation. A $10-per-day fee covers camping and/or use of the entire horse trail system, and an annual permit for the Piney Creek Horse Trail is available for $50 per vehicle, valid from January to December.

Promotions or Special Offers

While specific, ongoing promotional offers directly from 514-D White Rock Horse Camp are not widely publicized, there are a few important considerations regarding permits and fees that can be seen as beneficial for regular users. The fee structure is designed to be affordable, making it an attractive option for repeated visits.

The key "special offer" for frequent visitors is the Piney Creek Horse Trail Pass. An annual permit for the Piney Creek Horse Trail costs $50 per vehicle and is valid from January to December. This annual pass is a significant value for those who plan to visit the camp and use the horse trails multiple times throughout the year, as it offers unlimited access to the trail system for a single annual fee, rather than paying the $10 daily fee each time. Permits can be purchased at the Davy Crockett District Office, located at 18551 State Highway 7 East, Kennard, Texas 75847.

Additionally, as part of the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas system, visitors should always check the official USDA Forest Service website for any alerts, warnings, or seasonal information that might impact their visit, including potential fee changes or temporary closures. While direct discount codes or seasonal sales are not typically offered for Forest Service campgrounds, the consistent and low daily and annual fees make 514-D White Rock Horse Camp a continuously appealing and budget-friendly choice for Texans.

Contact Information

For any inquiries or to obtain permits, you can contact the relevant administrative office for 514-D White Rock Horse Camp.

  • Address: Forest Service Road 551, Kennard, TX 75847, USA
  • Phone: (936) 655-2299
  • Mobile Phone: +1 936-655-2299

It's important to remember that while the camp itself is open 24/7, the phone line will likely connect you to the Davy Crockett District Office, which has specific operational hours. The Davy Crockett District Office is typically open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and is closed on federal holidays. It's advisable to call during these hours for the most direct assistance regarding permits, current conditions, or any specific questions you might have about the camp or trails.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For Texans seeking an authentic outdoor experience, especially those with a passion for horseback riding, 514-D White Rock Horse Camp in the Davy Crockett National Forest is an outstanding choice. Its suitability for locals stems from several key aspects that resonate with the desire for accessible, natural, and enjoyable getaways within the state.

Firstly, its location in East Texas makes it a relatively convenient drive for a significant portion of the Texas population, particularly those in the eastern and central regions. It offers a true escape into the wilderness without requiring a cross-state journey, making weekend trips or even longer stays practical and less stressful.

Secondly, the camp directly addresses the needs of the equestrian community. With its specialized facilities and direct access to miles of well-maintained horse trails, it provides an unparalleled opportunity for horse owners to enjoy their passion in a dedicated environment. The peace and quiet, as highlighted by visitors, mean you can genuinely relax and connect with your horse and the surrounding nature, free from the distractions of more crowded recreational areas.

Furthermore, the family-friendly nature of 514-D White Rock Horse Camp makes it an excellent option for creating cherished memories with loved ones. It offers a unique alternative to more commercialized destinations, allowing families to bond over shared outdoor adventures, whether it's riding the trails or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of camping under the Texas sky.

Finally, the affordability of the camp, with its reasonable daily fees and an economical annual pass for frequent users, means that regular visits are sustainable. This encourages locals to return again and again, further fostering a connection to this beautiful corner of their home state. In essence, 514-D White Rock Horse Camp isn't just a place to camp; it's a sanctuary for Texas equestrians and nature lovers, offering a consistent blend of outdoor adventure, tranquility, and natural beauty right in their backyard.

Customer Reviews

4.0
3 reviews
C
Calsi Aycock
Oct 08, 2022

Nice peaceful quiet place to camp and ride horses on maintained trails

B
Bea Hernandez
Jun 26, 2017

My children loved the horse camp

K
Kat Mosshammer
Oct 24, 2021