Davy Crockett National Forest

Nestled in the heart of East Texas, the Davy Crockett National Forest stands as a testament to the beauty and diversity of the region’s natural landscapes. 

The Davy Crockett National Forest is a 160,000-acres forested land, complete with sparkling waterways and abundant wildlife. The forest offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. 

Whether you’re seeking a scenic drive, a challenging hike, or a peaceful camping trip, this national forest offers something for everyone. 

Join us as we explore the wonders of this stunning national treasure and discover why it has captured the hearts of so many outdoor enthusiasts.

All About the Davy Crockett National Forest

The Davy Crockett National Forest is a natural treasure located in East Texas, covering more than 160,000 acres of land. As you explore the forest, you will be struck by its breathtaking beauty, an oasis of rich biodiversity and natural resources found within.

The forest is named after the legendary pioneer Davy Crockett, a true lover of nature who embodied the adventurous spirit of the American frontier. His legacy has inspired generations of Americans to explore the natural world and appreciate its many wonders.

Address	18551 Texas 7, Kennard, TX 75847, United States
Contact Information	+1 936-655-2299
Website	https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/texas/about-forest/districts/?cid=fswdev3_008441
Social Media	Facebook, Instagram

The forest is centrally located within the Neches and Trinity River basins, which are home to a variety of plant and animal species. 

The region is characterized by the Piney Woods ecoregion, a unique ecosystem that is home to a diverse array of wildlife and plant species.

It offers visitors a perfect spot for fishing, swimming, and picnicking, making it a great place to spend quality time with friends and family.

Land and Terrain 

The Davy Crockett National Forest is located in an area known for its dense forests, unique ecology, and varied wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

When you explore the forest, you’ll experience mostly flat to gently rolling terrain with pine-hardwood woodlands and streams that create a peaceful and serene atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

One of the forest’s main attractions is Ratcliff Lake, which covers 45 acres of land.

Don’t forget to take a stroll along the nature trails that wind through the forest, where you can observe the diverse wildlife that calls the forest home. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

Uses and Functions

The Davy Crockett National Forest is managed on a multiple-use philosophy, allowing it to be used for lumbering, grazing, oil production, hunting, and recreation. 

The forest is not only a beautiful natural destination but also an important source of income for the surrounding communities in Texas. It provides jobs and generates millions of dollars in revenue every year.

To give you an idea, in fiscal year 1994 alone, 93.8 million board feet of timber was harvested from the national forests in Texas, and 386 head of cattle grazed in the Davy Crockett National Forest.

So, when you visit the forest, you’re not only enjoying its natural beauty and recreational activities, but you’re also supporting the local economy and the people who call this area home.

Wildlife

With so much wildlife to discover, it’s no wonder that the Davy Crockett National Forest is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You can spot a variety of animals ranging from small squirrels and rabbits to large deer and wild hogs.

Speaking of deer, the white-tailed deer is one of the most popular animals you can find in the forest. They love to graze in open meadows and along the forest trails, so keep an eye out for them during your visit. Tip: make sure you keep quiet to not scare it away. 

Birdwatchers will also love exploring the forest as it is home to several species of birds, including quail, doves, turkeys, and waterfowl. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot the red-cockaded woodpecker, an endangered species that calls the forest home. 

Look out for its distinctive red patch on the side of its head!

But the wildlife doesn’t stop there! The forest is also home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians, such as snakes, lizards, frogs, and toads, that you can find in the streams and ponds throughout the forest.

How to Get to the Davy Crockett National Forest 

Davy Crockett National Forest is located in eastern Texas, and there are various ways to get there depending on your mode of transportation. Here’s how you can get to the Davy Crockett National Forest by car, public transportation, bike, and foot:

By Car

The most convenient way to get to Davy Crockett National Forest is by car. If you’re traveling from Houston, you can take US-290 West towards Austin and then take TX-21 East towards Bryan/College Station. 

From there, take TX-21 East towards Crockett and turn right on US-287 South. The park entrance is located on the right-hand side of the road.

Alternative Modes of Transportation

• Public Transportation: If you’re planning to use public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus from Houston to Crockett, which is the closest city to the Davy Crockett National Forest. Once you arrive in Crockett, you can take a taxi or rideshare service to the park entrance. Keep in mind that public transportation options may be limited in this area, so it’s important to plan ahead.

• Biking from Crockett

– Begin by heading north on US-287 N/N 4th St towards W Goliad Ave.

– Continue straight on US-287 N for about 10 miles until you reach FM 228.

– Turn left onto FM 228 and continue for about 15 miles until you reach FM 227.

– Turn right onto FM 227 and continue for about 4.5 miles until you reach FM 2022.

– Turn left onto FM 2022 and continue for about 4 miles until you reach the entrance to Davy Crockett National Forest.

• king from Grapeland 

– Begin by heading north on US-287 N/S Main St towards W Chestnut St.

– Continue straight on US-287 N for about 9 miles until you reach FM 227.

– Turn left onto FM 227 and continue for about 8 miles until you reach FM 2022.

– Turn left onto FM 2022 and continue for about 5 miles until you reach the entrance to Davy Crockett National Forest.

Things to Do at the Davy Crockett National Forest

The Davy Crockett National Forest offers a diverse range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, making it a popular destination for visitors. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The Davy Crockett National Forest offers a variety of activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, water activities, horse riding, picnicking, and nature viewing.

Camping and Cabins

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of this forest is by camping or staying in one of the cabins available throughout the park. 

Whether you prefer roughing it in a tent or having a cozy cabin to return to after a day of exploring, Davy Crockett National Forest has something for everyone. 

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area is a great option for those looking for a family-friendly camping experience with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area is a popular camping spot in Davy Crockett National Forest. The campground features 51 campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, and tent pads. There are also several group campsites available for larger groups. 

If you’re looking for RV camping options in Davy Crockett National Forest, Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area is a great choice. 

If you’re tech-dependent like most of us are, you’ll like it here as the campground offers 31 RV sites with electric and water hookups, as well as picnic tables and fire rings. So, you don’t have to say goodbye to modern marvels in exchange for a breath of fresh air.

The sites can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet in length, making it a great option for larger RVs.

Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area also offers several group camping options for larger groups. The campground features four group campsites that can accommodate up to 30 people each, with picnic tables, fire rings, and tent pads. 

Dispersed Camping at Neches Bluff Overlook

For those looking for a more primitive camping experience, dispersed camping is available at Neches Bluff Overlook in Davy Crockett National Forest. 

If you enjoy really losing yourself in nature and leaving all your worries behind in the city, then you should give dispersed camping a try. 

Dispersed camping allows you to camp outside of designated campgrounds and can offer a more secluded and wild experience. At Neches Bluff Overlook, there are several areas where dispersed camping is allowed, with no amenities or facilities provided. 

You’ll need to bring your own water and supplies, and be prepared to pack out all trash and waste. However, the views from the bluff are stunning, offering panoramic views of the forest and the Neches River.

Keep in mind that dispersed camping does require a permit, which can be obtained from the ranger station. Additionally, be sure to practice the Leave No Trace mindset and respect the natural environment while camping. 

This is a great option for those looking for a more rugged and isolated camping experience in the heart of Davy Crockett National Forest.

Water Activities

Whether you’re into boating, fishing, or just taking a dip, Ratcliff Lake is the place to be on a hot Texas day.

If you’re planning a trip to Davy Crockett National Forest, don’t miss out on the chance to cool off at Ratcliff Lake. It’s our go to place to escape the Texas heat.

You can rent kayaks and paddle around the lake for hours. The peaceful surroundings and scenic views were just what I needed to unwind and recharge. 

And if you’re into fishing, Ratcliff Lake won’t disappoint. I managed to catch a few catfish and even a bass!

But if you’re not into boating or fishing, don’t worry. Ratcliff Lake has a designated swimming area that’s perfect for families. The water is so refreshing and the lifeguards on duty during peak season definitely gave me peace of mind.

Hiking

If you’re planning to visit Davy Crockett National Forest, you should definitely check out the hiking trails. With over 160,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness, the park has something for every level of hiker.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s a trail that will suit you. Have you heard of the Four C National Recreation Trail? It’s a 20-mile trek that takes you through the forest and offers some breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

You can hike the trail in sections or go for the full 20 miles with backcountry camping options available along the way. 

Fun fact, it’s named after the Central Coal and Coke Company that once harvested timber in the area, and it follows the abandoned tramways established by the company.

If you’re looking for something shorter and easier, Neches Bluff Overlook has a quick scenic hike that’s less than a mile round-trip. The trail leads to an amazing overlook of the Neches River, and it’s perfect for families.

But, if you want to combine hiking with swimming and other water activities, then Ratcliff Lake is the place for you. There are several trails that meander through the forest and around the lake, offering stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape.

Fishing

If, like us, fishing is your way to be one with nature, you have to check out Ratcliff Lake in Davy Crockett National Forest. This 45-acre lake has got tons of fish like catfish, crappie, sunfish, and bass, making it a great spot to fish all year round.

You can fish from the shore or rent non-motorized boats like canoes and kayaks to explore the lake. Plus, there are two fishing piers, one of which is accessible for people with disabilities.

Our secret spot is just beyond the first clump of trees by the older pier. Throw some live bait in and the catfish swim up to the surface right away, especially during the early hours of the day!

The best part? You don’t even need a fishing license to fish here. Just make sure to follow the fishing regulations set by the park officials.

Horse Riding

The Piney Creek Horse Trail in Davy Crockett National Forest offers an incredible experience for those who enjoy horseback riding. The trail spans over 53 miles and offers a network of trails through the lush East Texas piney woods.

During our visit, we stayed at one of the two main horse campsites along the trail: the 514-D White Rock Horse Camp and the 566 Piney Creek Horse Camp. 

Both of these campsites provide overnight accommodations for riders and their horses, complete with water, corrals, and picnic tables.

The Piney Creek Horse Trail offers various terrains, including forests, creeks, and rolling hills, providing an exciting and challenging experience for horseback riders. 

The trail’s stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere make it a popular destination for horseback riding enthusiasts.

If you go, bring your own gear, supplies and of course horses! There are no horses available for rent on the trail. You must also adhere to specific trail etiquette and regulations to ensure the safety and preservation of the trail and its surroundings.

Nature Viewing

If you’re a nature lover seeking to experience the wonders of the great outdoors, you won’t want to miss the Davy Crockett National Forest. For some of the most breathtaking views in the area, head over to the Neches Bluff Overlook.

Located at the northern end of the Four C National Recreation Trail, this overlook boasts panoramic vistas of the forest’s pine-hardwood forests in the Neches River bottomlands. 

Just make sure you don’t wear green if you don’t want to blend in with the trees! This area is perfect for taking in the beauty of nature or getting a quick pictorial session in with friends and family. 

With its pristine views and convenient picnic and camping facilities, Neches Bluff Overlook is a favorite among nature enthusiasts visiting the Davy Crockett National Forest.

Whether you’re a birding enthusiast or just seeking some tranquility in the midst of nature’s majesty, a visit to Neches Bluff Overlook is an experience that will take your breath away.

Picnicking 

Whether you’re planning a romantic picnic date or a family gathering, the Davy Crockett National Forest offers a range of options to suit your needs.

The forest has a lot of awesome spots with designated picnic areas. Kickapoo and Ratcliff Lake are our top picks for a relaxing picnic surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Both areas have everything you need, with picnic tables and grills readily available to cook up a delicious meal with your loved ones. 

If you’re in a big group, Ratcliff Lake has some sweet group picnic spots where you can enjoy each other’s company while basking in the forest’s tranquility.

Tips for Visiting the Davy Crockett National Forest 

If you are planning a visit to the Davy Crockett National Forest, here are some helpful tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and memorable visit to the Davy Crockett National Forest:

1. Do Your Homework: Before you hit up the forest, do a little research to find out all the cool stuff you can do and places you can go. That way, you won’t miss out on any of the fun!
2. Check the Weather: Texas weather is cray-cray, so make sure you’re prepared for anything. Check the forecast before you head out, and bring some extra layers just in case.
3. Gear Up: Whatever you’re planning to do – hike, camp, chill – don’t forget to bring the right gear. Make sure you’ve got comfy shoes, snacks, water, and a first aid kit just in case.
4. Respect the Animals: There are all kinds of critters living in the Davy Crockett National Forest, from deer to bears. Be cool and don’t feed or mess with them, and be sure to throw your trash away properly so they don’t come snooping around.
5. Keep it Clean: When you’re hanging out in the forest, leave it better than you found it. That means packing out all your trash and making sure the place stays beautiful for everyone to enjoy.