One Of Texas' Best-Kept Secrets Is A National Forest Where Outdoor Activities Are Endless

Right where the sprawling Piney Woods region begins in East Texas, there's a massive national forest that you could drive right through on your way to Houston and never be the wiser. Straddling I-45 just about 60 miles north of Houston is Sam Houston National Forest. But because the city is so large — locals like to say "Houston is an hour away from Houston," — it's worth noting it's specifically located about an hour north of downtown.

One of just four national forests in Texas, Sam Houston National Forest contains over 163,000 acres of lush wilderness spread out over Montgomery, San Jacinto, and Walker counties, and it includes parts of both Lake Conroe and Lake Livingston. Between water recreation areas, three developed campgrounds, deer hunting, bass fishing, birding, and stargazing along with over 100 miles of hiking trails (check out our ultimate guide to the best hiking gear), it's tough to get bored in this colossal suburban oasis. Plus, with the mild Texas winters that typically last about five minutes, you can visit all year round.

Sam Houston National Forest is home to the Lone Star Hiking Trail. This famous 129-mile trail is the longest continuous hiking trail in the state. The terrain is fairly level and easy to navigate, but be aware that parts of the trail pass through private property. If you'd rather bring your bike, your off-highway vehicle (50 inches or less), or even your horse, Sam Houston offers 85 miles of multi-use trails. Be sure to call ahead and verify the trails are open as they sometimes close due to excessive soil moisture.

Anglers can enjoy year-round fishing in either the 22,000 acres of Lake Conroe or the 82,600 acres of Lake Livingston. Both lakes are teeming with black bass, bluegill, and catfish. There's a public boat ramp at Scott's Ridge Day Use area on Lake Conroe as well as a dirt ramp at Stubblefield Lake picnic area and two concrete ramps at Cagle Recreation Area. A one-day pass is just $5 or $25 for an annual pass for areas where day-use fees are charged.

Being so close to civilization, Sam Houston National Forest can certainly be done as part of a day trip. But if you want to spend some time reconnecting with nature, this national forest offers plenty of great camping options (check out the best way to find free camping in the most beautiful national forests). 

Cagle Recreation Area is located along the western shoreline of Lake Conroe just off FM 1375. Reservations are required by calling or booking through recreation.gov, but you can book up to six months in advance. You can choose from 47 RV sites with full hookups and lake views for $30 a night. Double Lake Recreation Area sits on the north shore of Double Lake near Coldspring. This campground is popular with families thanks to its group camping options and proximity to a swimming area and beach. Plus, it features canoe and paddleboat rentals, Lone Star Hiking Trail access, and a concession stand with a bath house. Like Cagle, this campground requires reservations through recreation.gov. Standard electric sites start at $32 a night while non-electric sites start at $20 a night. RV electric sites start at $30 a night. 

Seasoned campers might prefer one of the 28 the first-come, first-served basic tent and RV campsites at Stubblefield Lake campground near the far north shore of Lake Conroe (be sure to study up on choosing the best campsite at your campground). This campground has Lone Star Hiking Trail access, hot showers and restroom facilities, and it's far enough from the light pollution of the big city to offer some quality stargazing.