Boles Field Campground - Sabine National Forest

As Texans, we know that finding an affordable, serene spot to set up camp while still having access to basic utilities can feel like striking oil. Nestled in the northern reaches of the Sabine National Forest, the Boles Field Campground is exactly that kind of hidden gem. Situated in the heart of the beautiful East Texas Piney Woods, this U.S. Forest Service site provides a refreshing escape from the hustle of city life, making it a favorite for weekend warriors, traveling RVers, and Texas families looking for a genuine outdoor experience without breaking the bank.

Boles Field offers a uniquely rustic camping atmosphere. The campsites are spread out beneath a towering canopy of pines and hardwoods, giving the whole area a comfortable, shaded feel. What truly sets this campground apart is its exceptional value: it provides the essential comforts of electric and water hookups at a price point that is almost unheard of across the state. While it embraces a simpler, more rugged style of camping—expect to unroll your rugs to manage the occasional mud puddle and bring your cash for the fee box—the peace, quiet, and beautiful surroundings make these minor inconveniences a worthwhile trade-off for a truly tranquil getaway.

Whether you're looking for a quiet overnight stop, a base camp for fishing Toledo Bend, or a secluded spot for some quality time in the national forest, Boles Field Campground delivers a genuine slice of the Texas outdoors.

Location and Accessibility

Boles Field Campground is perfectly positioned for East Texans, located deep within the Sabine National Forest, one of the state's most scenic forested areas. The campground is situated relatively close to the Texas-Louisiana border and the expansive Toledo Bend Reservoir, making it a prime spot for water enthusiasts and forest explorers alike.

The site's official address is:

FM2694, Shelbyville, TX 75973, USA

Access is generally straightforward, being located directly off Farm to Market Road (FM) 2694, approximately 8 miles east of the town of Shelbyville. For those traveling from the north or south, the campground is easily reached via State Highway 87, which leads directly to the FM road.

However, Texas travelers should note a few important accessibility considerations for their planning:

• Road Conditions: While the surrounding public roads are paved, the campground entrance road and some interior paths can become muddy and soft, particularly after rainfall. It is highly advisable to bring a 4-wheel drive vehicle, especially for larger RVs or trailers, to ensure easy entry and setup.
• Campsite Terrain: The camping areas are primarily grass and forest floor. Sites are often not perfectly level, so bring leveling blocks for your rig to ensure a comfortable stay.
• Traffic: The campground sits on both sides of the FM road, but traffic is typically minimal, so noise and safety are not generally a major concern.

Boles Field is designed for easy physical access from the main road, but requires a Texas-style preparedness for rustic, natural terrain.

Services Offered

Boles Field Campground is prized for offering essential utilities—the kind that greatly enhance a camping trip—at an incredibly budget-friendly price. The management operates on a self-service, first-come, first-served basis, meaning visitors should arrive prepared with all necessary supplies.

• Electric and Water Hookups: All 20 available campsites are equipped with both water and electric hookups, a significant benefit for RV and trailer campers. Note: Users should be aware that some power boxes, particularly on the north side, may be out of order and are sometimes unmarked.
• Affordable Fees: The standard fee is exceptionally low, typically around $6.00 per day for a site with utilities. Campers with an America the Beautiful/Interagency Pass often receive a 50% discount, lowering the fee to approximately $3.00 per night.
• Restrooms and Showers: The campground features a bathhouse with restrooms and shower facilities. A very important note: Customers frequently report that the hot water for the showers has been out of service for years, so campers without an on-board shower should plan to use cold water or travel to a nearby site like Ragtown Recreation Area for hot showers.
• Self-Service Fee Payment: As there is no camp host or staff present at all times, payment is made using a self-service fee box. Be sure to bring cash as the box typically does not accept cards, and there is no QR code for digital payment.
• Group Facilities: The campground includes a reservable shelter house and an amphitheater, which are available for day-use group gatherings, adding versatility for family reunions or organizational events.

Features / Highlights

The experience at Boles Field is defined by its serene environment and unique historical context, making it a compelling destination for Texans interested in both nature and local heritage.

• The National Foxhound Cemetery: This is a truly unique feature of the campground. The site centers around a historic cemetery established for champion foxhounds, preserving a fascinating piece of American sporting and hunting heritage right in the heart of East Texas.
• Quiet, Peaceful Camping: A consistent highlight reported by Texas visitors is the tranquility. Since the campground is less crowded than many larger state parks, it provides exceptional peace and quiet, ideal for relaxation and de-stressing.
• Gateway to Toledo Bend: Boles Field is just a short drive from the massive Toledo Bend Reservoir, one of the nation's premier freshwater fishing and boating destinations. Campers can use Boles Field as a budget-friendly base camp before heading out to the lake.
• Hiking and Hidden Trails: The surrounding Sabine National Forest offers opportunities for exploration. Campers have found small, unmarked trails that lead to beautiful natural spots, including a little hidden grotto—perfect for finding a peaceful moment in the woods.
• Excellent Value with Utilities: The combination of water and electric hookups for such a low nightly price is the single biggest operational highlight, providing essential comfort for RVs and trailers without the high cost typical of private campgrounds.

Contact Information

Boles Field Campground is managed by the USDA Forest Service as part of the Sabine National Forest. For the most reliable information on conditions, alerts, and facility status, it is best to contact the Sabine National Forest office directly.

• Address: FM2694, Shelbyville, TX 75973, USA (Physical Campground Location)
• Phone (Sabine National Forest Office): (409) 625-1940 (This is the primary contact for general information)
• Mobile Phone (Alternate/Direct Line): +1 409-625-1940
• Website/Reservations: Campsites are generally first-come, first-served, but reservations for the amphitheater and shelter house can be made via the official National Recreation Reservation System (Recreation.gov).

What is Worth Choosing Boles Field Campground

For the Texas outdoor enthusiast, choosing Boles Field Campground is worth it for three fundamental reasons: price, peace, and piney woods charm.

Firstly, the financial value is simply unbeatable. When you can secure a campsite with both electricity and water hookups for a fee that often hovers around $3 to $6 a night (especially with a pass), you’ve found the best camping deal in East Texas. This incredible affordability allows Texas families and travelers to spend their money on activities and supplies rather than just on a place to park.

Secondly, the quiet solitude is a premium feature. Located away from major highway noise and lacking the high density of more commercial parks, Boles Field delivers genuine tranquility. For those needing a break from crowded state parks, this is a sanctuary. It’s where you can truly hear the sounds of the national forest and enjoy starry Texas nights with minimal light pollution.

Finally, Boles Field offers a unique blend of history and recreation. Not only does it serve as a perfect launching point for fishing and water activities on the nearby Toledo Bend Reservoir, but it also provides the distinctive, intriguing feature of the National Foxhound Cemetery. This unique landmark adds a touch of local historical color to your camping trip, giving you something fascinating and unexpected to explore right in your temporary backyard.

While you need to come prepared for a few rustic conditions—bringing cash for the fee box, ensuring you can manage potentially muddy ground, and accepting the lack of hot water in the showers—these small preparations are well worth the effort for the quiet, utility-equipped, and exceptionally affordable East Texas camping experience that Boles Field Campground provides.