Ratcliff Campground

For Texans yearning to reconnect with nature, Ratcliff Campground, nestled within the expansive Davy Crockett National Forest, offers an idyllic escape to the heart of East Texas. Surrounding a picturesque 45-acre lake, this well-established recreation area provides a diverse range of camping options and outdoor activities, making it a beloved destination for families, anglers, hikers, and anyone seeking a serene retreat.

Ratcliff Campground, part of the larger Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area, stands as a testament to the Civilian Conservation Corps' legacy, built in 1936. It beautifully combines historic charm with modern conveniences, ensuring a comfortable and memorable camping experience. Whether you prefer the rustic appeal of tent camping under towering pines or the comfort of an RV with hookups, this campground caters to every preference, promising a refreshing break from the daily grind in our beautiful state.

Ratcliff Campground is situated within the Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area, located off State Highway 7 East, near the towns of Ratcliff and Kennard, in Houston and Trinity Counties, Texas. The general address provided, Texas 75847, corresponds to this area within the Davy Crockett National Forest. This puts it squarely in the heart of East Texas's Piney Woods, known for its lush forests and abundant wildlife.

Accessibility to Ratcliff Campground is straightforward. From Lufkin, travelers can take Highway 103 west for 16 miles, which merges with Highway 7, and then continue west for 12 miles before turning right at the recreation area entrance. For those coming from Crockett, it's a pleasant 15-mile drive east on Highway 7, with a left turn onto the entrance road. While the campground offers a sense of being "in the middle of nowhere" for a truly immersive nature experience, essential services are not far off. The town of Crockett is approximately 20 miles away, offering a small Walmart, an HEB grocery store, and various dining options for any last-minute needs or supplies. This convenient balance of secluded nature and nearby amenities makes Ratcliff Campground easily accessible for Texans looking to escape to the forest.

Ratcliff Campground, as part of the Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area, provides a comprehensive array of services to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay for all campers:

• Campsites: Offers a variety of sites including electrical (30 amp) and non-electrical options for both RVs and tents. Some sites have water hookups, while others require campers to utilize centrally located potable water spigots.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring or grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and campfires.
• Restroom Facilities: Clean flush toilets are available in five camping areas, along with hot showers, providing a welcome amenity for campers.
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available for RVs, making waste disposal convenient for those with self-contained units.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is accessible via centrally located faucets throughout the campground and day-use areas.
• Swimming Area: A designated swimming area in Ratcliff Lake offers a refreshing way to cool off (no lifeguard on duty).
• Boat Ramp: A launch ramp is available for non-motorized or electric-powered boats, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on the lake.
• Reservations: Some sites are reservable through recreation.gov or by phone, while others are available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering flexibility for planning.
• On-site Hosts: Reviews mention park hosts who are "very nice and helpful," indicating on-site assistance and management for guest needs.
• Day-Use Area: Separate day-use facilities with picnic tables and restrooms are available for visitors not staying overnight.
• Group Shelters and Amphitheater: These facilities are available by reservation for group gatherings and events.

Ratcliff Campground within the Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area boasts numerous features and highlights that make it a premier camping destination in East Texas:

• Picturesque 45-Acre Lake: The central feature, Ratcliff Lake, is ideal for fishing (stocked with bass, bream, and catfish), non-motorized boating, and swimming in a designated area.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: The campground serves as a trailhead for the 20-mile Four C National Recreation Trail, offering varying intensities from easy to more challenging sections. Shorter trails like the 1.5-mile Tall Pines and 0.75-mile Trail Tamers are also available.
• Heavily Wooded and Shaded Sites: The campground is surrounded by dense loblolly pine, oak, and other hardwoods, providing ample natural shade, which is especially appreciated during hot Texas summers.
• Spacious Campsites: Many reviews highlight the "very spacious campsites" that are "far between each other," offering more privacy than typically found in other campgrounds. Some sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 35 and 65 feet.
• Clean Bathhouses with Hot Showers: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of the restrooms and the availability of hot showers, enhancing the comfort of the camping experience.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The diverse forest environment supports a wide variety of wildlife, including the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker, making it excellent for birdwatching and nature observation.
• Year-Round Operation: The facility is open year-round, allowing Texans to enjoy its beauty across all seasons.
• Historic Significance: Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936, the area carries a rich history adding to its unique charm.
• Quiet and Relaxing Atmosphere: Despite being a popular spot, many visitors describe the campground as "peaceful and quiet," ideal for unwinding and enjoying nature.

As a campground operated by the U.S. Forest Service within the Davy Crockett National Forest, Ratcliff Campground offers standardized fees rather than traditional commercial "promotions" or "special offers." However, there are discounted rates available for qualifying individuals:

• Interagency Senior Pass Holders: U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62 or older are eligible for a 50% discount on standard amenity fees (like camping), though this discount typically applies to the base fee and not additional charges (e.g., for extra vehicles).
• Interagency Access Pass Holders: U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities are eligible for a 50% discount on standard amenity fees.
• Annual Passes: For frequent visitors to National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands, an annual pass may offer savings on day-use fees, but generally not on individual campsite fees directly.

Current camping fees are typically $15 per day for non-electrical sites and $20 per day for electrical sites (30 amp). Group sites are $30 per day for non-electrical. A day-use fee of $5 per vehicle, per day, applies to all non-camping visitors accessing the recreation area. For the most current fee schedule and to check eligibility for passes or discounts, it is always best to visit the official Recreation.gov website or contact the Davy Crockett National Forest directly. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance, with some sites also available on a first-come, first-served basis.

For inquiries about Ratcliff Campground, site availability, or to make reservations, please use the following contact details:

Address: 18551 State Highway 7 East, Kennard, TX 75847 (often associated with the Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area within Davy Crockett National Forest)

Primary Campground Information Phone: (936) 655-2299

Reservations can also be made online through the National Recreation Reservation System:

Website: www.recreation.gov

Reservation Phone: 1-877-444-6777

It's always recommended to check the Recreation.gov website for the most up-to-date information on site availability, current fees, and specific park alerts or closures, especially before making a long trip.

Ratcliff Campground is an unparalleled outdoor destination for Texans seeking an authentic and accessible nature experience within our state's beautiful Davy Crockett National Forest. For locals, its prime location offers a convenient escape to a tranquil environment, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure that’s not too far from home. Whether you're a seasoned camper or looking to introduce your family to the joys of the outdoors, Ratcliff delivers.

The array of activities – from excellent fishing and non-motorized boating on the serene Ratcliff Lake to extensive hiking opportunities on the Four C National Recreation Trail – caters to diverse interests, ensuring there's something for everyone. The well-maintained sites, complete with picnic tables, fire rings, and the luxury of clean bathhouses with hot showers, mean that even rustic camping can be enjoyed with comfort. The abundant natural shade from towering pines and the consistent praise for its quiet, peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal sanctuary to unwind and reconnect with nature. For Texans, Ratcliff Campground truly embodies the spirit of our state's natural beauty, offering a welcoming and memorable outdoor retreat right in our own backyard.