Angelina National Forest

The Sam Rayburn Reservoir, viewed from the Sandy Creek boat ramp.

Tucked in the heart of east Texas, the 153,179-acre Angelina National Forest spans the Neches River Basin and straddles the Sam Rayburn Reservoir.

The reservoir, a 114,500-acre lake on the Angelina River, is noted for its fishing, boating and water skiing.

Fishing and semi-primitive camp sites are available at Bouton Springs. The nine-acre spring-fed, man-made Boykin Lake has a swimming area. Caney Creek and Sandy Creek Recreation Areas have campgrounds with boat ramps to the Sam Rayburn Reservoir. There is additional lake access at Harvey Creek and bayou boat ramps.

The Sawmill Hiking Trail links two recreation areas and passes an abandoned, historic sawmill site.

Boykin Springs, the Sawmill Hiking Trail and the sawmill site are currently closed due to severe damage from Hurricane Rita. Call for additional information.

The Upland Island and Turkey Hill wildernesses, both situated on the Gulf Coastal Plain and covered by dense pine and hardwood forests, offer plenty of backcountry recreation opportunities, including hiking, wilderness camping, horseback riding and hunting.

The Townsend boat ramp and campground is operated by San Augustine County.

Access to the forest is free, however fees are charged to recreation areas.