Camping at PRAIRIE BRANCH

Introduction

Huntsville State Park is a 2,083.2-acre recreational area located six miles southwest of Huntsville, Texas, in Walker County. It is a part of the Texas State Parks system and provides a range of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, and boating. The park surrounds the 210-acre Lake Raven and provides a scenic getaway with a beautiful pine forest backdrop.

Prairie Branch Camping Area

The Prairie Branch is one of the several camping areas within Huntsville State Park. When planning a camping trip to Prairie Branch, there are several essential pieces of information that you should be aware of.

Reservation Information

Book in Advance: To guarantee a camping spot at Prairie Branch, it is highly recommended that you make a reservation well in advance of your trip. The Texas State Parks reservations system allows you to book campsites up to five months in advance.

Reservation Methods:

• Online through the Texas State Parks reservation website.
• By calling the Texas State Parks Customer Service Center.

Campsites Information

Types of Campsites: Prairie Branch may have the following types of campsites, though specifics can vary:

• Tent sites with water nearby
• Sites with water and electricity hookups
• Full hookup sites (water, electricity, and sewer)

Amenities:

• Each site usually comes with a picnic table, a fire ring or a grill, and nearby restrooms with showers.
• There may be shared facilities such as a playground, boat rentals, and a dump station.

Park Access

Entrance Fees:

• Daily entrance fees are required for all visitors to Huntsville State Park, in addition to the camping fees.
• Fees vary for adults, children, and seniors, and annual park passes are available for frequent visitors.

Park Hours:

• Huntsville State Park has specific hours for check-in and check-out, typically from early morning to late evening.
• Make sure to arrive during the operational hours to ensure your spot is secure.

Activities and Amenities

Outdoor Recreation:

• You can engage in activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and bird-watching.
• Lake Raven offers opportunities for boating and paddling.

Facility Amenities:

• Huntsville State Park has a park store where you can buy supplies and souvenirs.
• Group facilities such as pavilions or halls may be available for rent.

Rules and Regulations

Wildlife Precautions:

• As with any natural area, it's essential to be mindful of wildlife. Store food properly and maintain a safe distance from animals.

Campfire Safety:

• Observe any fire bans and use designated fire rings for campfires. Never leave a fire unattended.

Respect the Natural Environment:

• Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the park's ecosystem.

Considerate Camping:

• Keep noise levels down, especially during quiet hours.
• Respect the privacy and enjoyment of fellow campers.

Weather Considerations

Be Prepared:

• Texas weather can be unpredictable, so check the forecast ahead of time and prepare for sudden changes.
• Bring suitable gear for hot summers or chilly winters, and always have rain gear on hand.

Conclusion

Camping at Prairie Branch in Huntsville State Park can be a delightful experience if you come well-prepared. By making reservations in advance, respecting park rules, and being mindful of the natural environment, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable visit. Always contact the park or visit the Texas State Parks website for the most current information and any alerts or updates that may impact your stay.