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95 campgrounds and RV Parks near Palestine, TX. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
95 campgrounds
3278 campsites
140 RVs available for delivery
From $15/night
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Best campgrounds near Palestine, TX
Purple Peacock RV Resort - Clothing Optional
Palestine, TX (2 miles away)
$$$$$
(29 sites)
+4
Texas Gold RV Ranch
Palestine, TX (3 miles away)
Palestine Campground - Texas State Railroad
Palestine, TX (4 miles away)
$$$$$
(12 sites)
+2
Palestine RV Park
Palestine, TX (4 miles away)
$$$$$
(27 sites)
Whippletree RV Resort
Palestine, TX (9 miles away)
Salmon Lake RV and Music Park
Grapeland, TX (20 miles away)
$$$$$
(375 sites)
+3
Jake's RV Park Frankston
Frankston, TX (21 miles away)
$$$$$
(15 sites)
+2
Frankston RV Resort
Frankston, TX (21 miles away)
Big Steves Resort RV Park and Marina
Frankston, TX (24 miles away)
$$$$$
(23 sites)
+7
Crockett Family Resort And Marina
Crockett, TX (24 miles away)
$$$$$
(95 sites)
+6
Springfield - Fairfield Lake State Park
Fairfield, TX (25 miles away)
$$$$$
(36 sites)
+5
Texas State Railroad Campground
Rusk, TX (26 miles away)
$$$$$
(32 sites)
+10
Most common amenities
Pet friendly Toilets Showers Laundry Internet Dump station Tables Grills Fishing General store
Camping near Palestine, Texas
Palestine sits in the Piney Woods of East Texas, roughly two hours southeast of Dallas and two hours north of Houston. The town is best known as the western terminus of the Texas State Railroad, a 25-mile heritage line that runs between Palestine and Rusk, and for its springtime Dogwood Trails. RV travelers use Palestine as a base for short loops through Anderson and Cherokee counties, with Lake Palestine, Mission Tejas State Park, and the Davy Crockett National Forest all within reach.
Most area campgrounds are private RV parks rather than public-land sites, which means full hookups, paved or gravel pads, and year-round access. Closest to town are Palestine RV Park and Texas Gold RV Ranch, both within a short drive of downtown. Whippletree RV Resort sits north of the city along US 79, while Palestine Campground - Texas State Railroad serves riders boarding the historic train. Purple Peacock RV Resort is an adults-only, clothing-optional property for travelers seeking that specific experience.
Things to do around Palestine
The Texas State Railroad runs vintage steam and diesel excursions between Palestine and Rusk through pine forest, and is the headline family activity in the area. Downtown Palestine's Main Street District has restored storefronts, the Museum for East Texas Culture, and the Howard House Museum. The Dogwood Trails Celebration in late March and early April draws visitors for blooms along marked driving routes. Lake Palestine, about 30 minutes north, offers bass fishing, boat ramps, and swimming. Mission Tejas State Park near Grapeland has short hiking trails and a reconstructed mission church. Davy Crockett National Forest, with Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area, adds longer trails and paddling within a one-hour drive.
Camping spots and RV parks near Palestine, TX
When to visit Palestine
- spring
March - May
75° / 55°F 120 mmDogwoods bloom; severe storm and tornado season
- summer
June - August
91° / 72°F 85 mmHot and humid; shaded sites with 50-amp preferred
- fall
September - November
77° / 55°F 95 mmCooling temps and lower humidity; crowds thin
- winter
December - February
59° / 37°F 90 mmMild days, cool nights; occasional hard freezes
Spring is the headline season. Dogwoods bloom from mid-March through early April, the Texas State Railroad runs a full schedule, and daytime highs sit in the comfortable upper 70s Fahrenheit. Spring is also a wet stretch, with thunderstorms common from April through May and an active severe-weather risk across East Texas. RV travelers should monitor National Weather Service alerts and choose sites with good drainage.
Summer brings heat and humidity, with afternoon highs frequently in the mid 90s and heat index values higher. Sites with shade and 50-amp service for air conditioning are worth prioritizing. Lake recreation peaks in June and July.
Fall is a strong second window. September can still be hot, but October and November cool steadily, humidity drops, and crowds thin. Winter is mild by national standards, with daytime highs typically in the upper 50s and 60s, occasional freezes, and rare brief snow. Most private RV parks operate year-round.
How to book a campsite
Private parks in the Palestine area, including Palestine RV Park, Texas Gold RV Ranch, Whippletree RV Resort, and Purple Peacock RV Resort, typically take reservations directly by phone or through their own websites. Many also list on third-party platforms. Palestine Campground - Texas State Railroad books through the railroad's reservation system and fills quickly on weekends tied to train excursions and seasonal events.
For nearby public lands, Texas State Parks such as Mission Tejas use the Texas Parks and Wildlife reservation system, which opens five months in advance. National forest sites in Davy Crockett, including Ratcliff Lake, book through Recreation.gov, generally six months ahead. Reserve well in advance for Dogwood Trails weekends in spring, holiday weekends, and any dates overlapping a Polar Express or special train run.
What to expect on arrival
Most Palestine-area RV parks are flat, gravel or concrete pad layouts with full hookups, 30 and 50-amp service, and Wi-Fi of varying reliability. Cell coverage is generally solid on major carriers in town and patchy in surrounding forest areas. Big-rig access is good along US 79, US 287, and State Highway 155, but some county-road parks have tight turns, so check site length limits before towing in.
Expect mature pine and hardwood canopy at many sites, which provides welcome shade but also pine needles, falling limbs after storms, and occasional satellite reception issues. Mosquitoes and chiggers are active from spring through fall. Stores, fuel, propane, and RV supplies are available in Palestine itself; stock up before heading deeper into the national forest, where services are limited.
Own an RV? Earn up to $24,738/year.
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Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near Palestine, TX
How much does an RV rental in Palestine, TX typically cost?
An RV rental in Palestine is one of the more affordable ways to explore East Texas. Motorhomes in the Palestine area average around $200 to $250 per night, while travel trailers and fifth wheels typically run $100 to $150 per night, and many hosts offer weekly or monthly discounts. To find a cheap RV rental Palestine travelers love, book midweek, avoid the Dogwood Trails Celebration weekends in late March, and consider a towable trailer with delivery included to a local park. Pro tip: bundling delivery with a longer stay at Palestine RV Park or a Lake Palestine site often beats nightly hotel rates downtown.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Palestine%2C%20TexasWhat do I need to rent an RV in Palestine, TX?
Renting an RV in Palestine is refreshingly simple. You just need to be 25 or older with a valid driver's license, no commercial driver's license (CDL) or special RV endorsement is required in Texas, even for larger Class A motorhomes. RVezy verifies your identity right through the platform, so there is no trip to a rental counter or DMV. Visiting from outside the United States? Bring your home country license plus an International Driving Permit (IDP), which you can get from your local auto association. Most first-time renters are approved quickly, often the same day they book.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsIs an RV rental in Palestine, TX protected if something goes wrong?
Yes, every RV rental in Palestine booked through RVezy includes a renter protection plan and 24/7 roadside assistance. The protection plan covers most physical damage to the RV so you can drive the Piney Woods and Loop 256 with peace of mind, and you choose your level of coverage during checkout (hosts do not set this, you do). It is not traditional auto insurance, but it provides significant financial protection for renters. Pro tip: select a higher-tier plan if you are heading onto Anderson County back roads or towing for the first time, the extra few dollars per night is worth the worry-free Palestine RV trip.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailWhat if I need to cancel my Palestine RV rental?
Booking is low-risk because RVezy, not the host, sets the cancellation policy for every Palestine RV reservation. There is a money-back grace period right after you book, plus structured refund windows that depend on how far out your trip is. If a host ever cancels on you, RVezy refunds you or provides travel credits so you are not left without a trip. Because the policy is handled centrally by RVezy, you get the same fair terms whether you are renting a campervan for a Dogwood Trails weekend or a fifth wheel for a week at Lake Palestine. Pro tip: book early to lock in the rig you want with the longest cancellation runway.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsCan I bring my dog on a pet-friendly RV rental in Palestine, TX?
Yes, pet-friendly RV rental Palestine options are easy to find. Just toggle the Pet-Friendly filter on RVezy and you will see plenty of hosts who welcome dogs and cats. Palestine is a great town for four-legged travelers: Davey Dogwood Park's scenic drives and trails are leash-friendly, and Reagan Park downtown has shaded lawns perfect for a stretch break. Many local RV parks also welcome pets with on-site space to roam. Pro tip: message the host before booking to confirm any breed or weight notes, and ask about their pet cleaning fee so you can budget accordingly.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Palestine%2C%20Texas&Filters=PetFriendlyCan the RV be delivered to my campground in Palestine?
Yes, RV delivery in Palestine is one of the most popular options on RVezy, and it is a game changer if it is your first time renting an RV. Many local hosts will tow the RV straight to your site at a local Palestine RV park or a lakeside spot on Lake Palestine, level it, hook up water, sewer, and 30/50 amp power, and walk you through every system before they leave. Delivery fees are set by the host based on distance, typically a flat fee plus a per-mile rate. Pro tip: filter by Delivery on RVezy to see all the hosts willing to come to you.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Palestine%2C%20Texas&Filters=DeliveryHow far can I drive on an RV road trip from Palestine, TX?
Palestine is perfectly positioned for an RV road trip because you are within easy reach of some of Texas's best destinations. Dallas is about 110 miles northwest (roughly 2 hours), Houston is about 150 miles south (about 2.5 hours), Tyler and the East Texas wineries sit roughly 50 miles north, and Caddo Lake State Park is around 150 miles east. Most hosts include 100 to 150 free miles per night, with extra miles typically priced between $0.30 and $0.50. Some hosts offer RV rental with unlimited mileage. Pro tip: filter for unlimited mileage if you are chaining together Dallas, Tyler, and Lake Palestine in one trip.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Palestine%2C%20TexasWhere are the best campgrounds near Palestine, TX?
You have great options for RV camping near Palestine. Palestine RV Park, just outside downtown, offers full-hookup sites with 50/30/20 amp service and pull-throughs that fit larger rigs. Several private parks around Lake Palestine offer concrete pads, fishing access, and shaded sites. For a state park experience, Mission Tejas State Park near Grapeland (about 30 miles south) offers sites with water and 30-amp electric in a beautiful Piney Woods setting. Pro tip: book Palestine-area parks early for Dogwood Trails Celebration weekends in late March, they fill up fast.
tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/mission-tejasWhen is the best time to visit Palestine, TX in an RV?
The sweet spot for an RV rental in Palestine is mid-March through May, when dogwoods bloom and daytime highs sit in the comfortable 70s. Fall (October through mid-November) is the second favorite season, with crisp 60 to 75 degree days and brilliant foliage along the Texas State Railroad route. Summer brings 90 to 95 degree heat and humidity, so plan for early-morning drives and an RV with strong air conditioning. Winters are mild, mostly 40 to 60 degrees, which makes a Palestine RV trip a nice snowbird stop. Pro tip: time your visit to the Dogwood Trails Celebration in late March for the town's signature event.
weather.gov/fwd/I've never driven an RV. Is Palestine a good place to start?
Palestine is one of the easiest places in Texas to learn, which is why so many first-time RV renters choose it. Roads like US-79, US-287, and Loop 256 are wide, lightly trafficked, and mostly flat, with no significant hills, low bridges, or city congestion to navigate. Every RVezy host gives you a hands-on walkthrough at pickup covering driving, leveling, hookups, and dump procedures, so you are never figuring it out alone. If you would rather skip driving entirely, choose a host who offers delivery and setup right at your campground. Pro tip: practice a few right and left turns in a large parking lot on Loop 256 before heading out, an easy confidence builder.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsWhat happens if I have a breakdown during my Palestine RV trip?
You are covered. Every RVezy booking that includes a protection plan also includes 24/7 roadside assistance, so help is one phone call away whether you are parked at Davey Dogwood Park or rolling down US-287. The roadside team handles flat tires, jump starts, lockouts, fuel delivery, and towing to a qualified service center. Your host is also just a message away through the RVezy app for quick questions about how something works. Palestine has full mechanical and tire services along Loop 256, with additional truck stops on I-45 to the west. Pro tip: save the roadside number to your phone before you leave the driveway.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailCan I take my Palestine RV rental into Louisiana or Oklahoma?
Yes, most hosts on RVezy allow cross-state travel from Palestine into Louisiana, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and beyond, since the protection plan and roadside assistance work across the United States. Popular routes include Palestine to Shreveport, Louisiana (about 165 miles east), Palestine to Hot Springs, Arkansas (about 320 miles north), and Palestine to Broken Bow, Oklahoma (about 200 miles northeast). Travel into Mexico is not permitted on RVezy rentals because insurance coverage does not extend there. Pro tip: message the host before booking to confirm your route, especially for long multi-state trips, so they can confirm coverage and any added mileage allowance.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039340074-Insurance-coverage-validityWhat should I budget for fuel on a Palestine RV trip?
Texas typically has some of the lower gas prices in the country, which helps keep your Palestine RV trip budget-friendly. Class B campervans average 18 to 22 MPG, Class C motorhomes get 10 to 14 MPG, and large Class A rigs run 7 to 10 MPG. Travel trailers depend on your tow vehicle but typically drop your truck to 10 to 13 MPG. At current Texas pump prices, a 200-mile round trip from Palestine to Tyler and back in a Class C will run roughly $45 to $65 in fuel. Pro tip: fill up at Buc-ee's in Madisonville (about 70 miles south on I-45) for competitive prices and famously clean restrooms.
eia.gov/petroleum/gasdiesel/How far ahead should I reserve a campground near Palestine, TX?
For the best campgrounds near Palestine, book three to four weeks ahead for normal weekends, and three to five months ahead for Dogwood Trails Celebration weekends (late March), Polar Express season at the Texas State Railroad (November and December), and any major railroad special event. Texas state parks like Mission Tejas use the Texas Parks and Wildlife reservation system, which opens bookings five months in advance, and weekend sites can fill quickly. Private parks around Palestine typically book directly through their websites or by phone. Pro tip: weekday arrivals (Sunday through Wednesday) almost always have openings even in peak season, and rates are often lower too.
tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/park-information/reservationsWhat are driving conditions like around Palestine, TX?
Driving an RV around Palestine is genuinely relaxed compared to larger Texas cities. Loop 256 circles the town with wide lanes and easy gas station access, and main highways like US-79, US-287, and TX-155 are mostly flat with gentle curves through the Piney Woods. Watch for occasional deer at dawn and dusk on rural Anderson County roads, sudden thunderstorms in spring and early summer, and the occasional slow-moving train at downtown crossings. There are no mountain grades or tunnels to worry about. Pro tip: skip narrow historic streets in Old Town Palestine with a big rig and park at the Texas State Railroad Palestine Depot lot instead, which is RV-friendly.
drivetexas.org/What amenities will I find at campgrounds near Palestine?
Most campgrounds around Palestine offer full hookups (water, sewer, and 30/50 amp electric), which means you can run AC, fill fresh water, and dump grey and black tanks right at your site. Many local parks also offer laundry, showers, Wi-Fi, and fishing access, with shaded sites that are welcome on hot summer days. For free dump stations and water fills between stops, many Texas travel centers and county parks offer service. Pro tip: confirm 50-amp availability when booking if you are in a large Class A, as some older parks are 30-amp only.
tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/park-information/facilitiesWhat features will my Palestine RV rental include?
Just about everything you need for a comfortable Palestine RV trip comes standard. Expect a real bed (or two or three), a kitchen with fridge, stove, microwave, sink, and cookware, a bathroom with toilet and shower, dinette seating, AC and furnace, and seatbelted seats for travel. Most motorhome rental Palestine listings also include a TV, and many add a generator, Wi-Fi hotspot, or solar setup. Campervans are nimble for couples, while Class C motorhomes and travel trailers comfortably sleep families of four to eight. Pro tip: check the listing photos and the included amenities list carefully, and message the host if anything is unclear.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Palestine%2C%20TexasWhat add-ons and options can I get with my RVezy rental in Palestine?
Hosts make it easy to customize your campervan rental Palestine or motorhome experience. Common add-ons include camping chairs and tables, BBQ grills, bedding and linen packages, kitchen kits, generators, bike racks, and even kayaks, which are perfect for Lake Palestine. Pickup is usually at the host's home or a meeting point near Loop 256, and many hosts offer delivery and pickup straight to your campground for a flat fee plus mileage. Mileage policies vary by listing, most include 100 to 150 free miles per night with extra miles at $0.30 to $0.50. Pro tip: book the linen and kitchen kits, it saves a Walmart run and means you are ready to roll the moment you arrive.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Palestine%2C%20TexasHow does payment and the security deposit work on RVezy?
Payment is straightforward and secure. You pay through the RVezy platform with a credit or debit card, never in cash to the host. Your total is split between an upfront amount at booking and the remainder before your trip begins. A refundable security deposit is held separately on your card (typically $500 to $1,500 depending on the RV) and released after the trip once the host confirms no damage and the RV is returned per the listing terms. Pro tip: take quick photos and a short video of the RV inside and out at pickup and drop-off, it makes any deposit questions extremely fast to resolve.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038106214-How-the-security-deposit-worksIs Palestine a good base for a family RV trip?
Palestine is a fantastic family RV trip destination because almost everything is family-friendly and within 15 minutes of your campsite. Ride the Texas State Railroad's round-trip steam train to Rusk, splash at Reagan Park downtown, explore local family attractions, and drive the scenic trails at Davey Dogwood Park. Most RVezy rentals sleep four to eight with seatbelted travel seats, so loading up the whole crew is easy. Pro tip: grab a kolache or pie from Eilenberger's Bakery (a Palestine institution since the 1800s) on your way out of town, it is a tradition the kids will remember.
visitpalestine.com/things-to-do