Pine Trees and Wildflowers

Lose yourself among the majestic trees and natural beauty of the East Texas Pineywoods. Rent a canoe, explore our trails or just relax by the lake. We are a short drive north of Houston, in the Sam Houston National Forest.

Things to Do

At Huntsville State Park, you can camp, hike, bike, picnic, fish, swim, paddle, geocache and study nature. We have 21 miles of trails, playgrounds, a bird blind and nature center. Alligators live in the park; read our alligator safety tips.

On the lake

Enjoy water activities on the 210-acre Lake Raven:

• Fish for crappie, perch, catfish and bass. We have a boat ramp, fishing piers and fish cleaning stations. We allow motor boats, but at idle speed only.
• Swim in our designated area from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. (no lifeguards). Read our swimming safety tips before you swim.
• Rent a kayak. Self-service kayak rentals are available near Raven Lodge. 

Stay overnight

Rent one of our screened shelters or shelters with amenities, or choose from 160 campsites. Rent our group pavilion or hall for your next gathering.

Shop

Gator Junction sells camping and fishing supplies, groceries, ice cream, cold drinks, ice, souvenirs and more!

Karsan's Kona Ice of Huntsville sells shaved ice with a variety of flavors throughout the park on weekends. Email karsan@kona-ice.com or call (903) 388-6649, about catering options.

Get involved

We need your help. Friends of Huntsville State Park give programs, help maintain the park, and raise funds. Call the park to learn more.

Support state parks by donating to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation.

Civilian Conservation Corps

The CCC built many of the park’s facilities, including the group recreation hall and boat house. To learn more, visit our History page.

Ranger Programs

Check our Events page for upcoming programs on the plants, animals and history of this park. We also give programs for groups; please call to schedule a program at least two weeks in advance.

Download our Bird Checklist.

Nature Center

Our Nature Center has something for everyone:  exhibits, bird nests and other collections, and animals. Hours vary; call the park for information.

Kids

Become a Junior Ranger!

• Borrow an Explorer Pack loaded with tools for exploring the park.
• Pick up a free Junior Ranger Activity Journal at the Nature Center or park headquarters. Complete tasks to earn a badge.

Teachers

Bring students for field trips using TEKS-aligned curriculum (call the park to arrange trips).

• This is a Texas Aquatic Science Certified Field Site.
• The Junior Ranger Activity Journal is TEKS-aligned.

Area Attractions

• Huntsville:  Visit the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, the Sam Houston Statue, and more.
• Sam Houston National Forest
• Lone Star Hiking Trail – This 129-mile National Recreation Trail crosses the Sam Houston National Forest. You can access the hiking-only trail from the park.
• Great Texas Wildlife Trails:  Big Sandy Loop: This loop leads you to the best wildlife viewing spots in the area.