Campsite #35

🌲 Welcome to Campsite #35: Your Perfect East Texas Escape at Hanks Creek Campground

For Texans seeking the ultimate blend of natural beauty, privacy, and convenient amenities, look no further than Campsite #35 at the popular Hanks Creek Campground. Located on the stunning Sam Rayburn Reservoir—the largest man-made lake entirely within Texas—Hanks Creek Park, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), offers a premier outdoor experience. Campsite #35 stands out among the park's offerings, frequently praised by local users for its exceptional seclusion and direct access to the water, making it a highly desirable spot for fishing, swimming, and simply unwinding in the great Texas Piney Woods.

While the broader Hanks Creek Park features 47 total sites, Campsite #35 provides a unique experience that combines the creature comforts of modern camping with the peaceful solitude of a true wilderness getaway. Whether you're planning a weekend fishing trip, a family vacation, or a quiet retreat to nature, this particular site promises an unforgettable stay by the water's edge, all within the beautiful surroundings of the Angelina National Forest.

📍 Location and Accessibility: Nestled in the Heart of the Piney Woods

Campsite #35 is situated within Hanks Creek Campground near the small community of Zavalla, Texas. This prime location places you directly on the shores of the massive Sam Rayburn Reservoir, surrounded by the lush, towering pines of the Angelina National Forest. The campground's address is associated with the general area of Hanks Creek Park, but the coordinates for this specific location are deep enough within the park to ensure a tranquil, private setting.

The journey to Campsite #35 is part of the charm, as customers frequently note the "long curved driveway leads to a secluded campsite." This natural approach enhances the feeling of having truly escaped the hustle of city life. Accessibility is well-managed; the park utilizes a gate system, which is a common feature in COE parks to enhance security and manage reservations. Visitors are reminded that the entrance code is typically included in your email confirmation, a smooth process exemplified by the helpful camp host: one visitor noted, "Just about the time I found it, camp host was driving up on her golf cart to see if I needed help…very nice."

The park is typically accessible by vehicle (Drive-In) and is within reasonable driving distance for many Texans, located approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from Beaumont, 1 hour 45 minutes from Longview, and 1 hour 49 minutes from Tyler, TX. Its proximity to key East Texas population centers makes it an ideal spot for a quick escape or a longer, more immersive stay.

🛠️ Services Offered at Campsite #35 and Hanks Creek Park

Campsite #35 itself is designed to accommodate various types of camping equipment, including RVs, motorhomes, trailers, and tents, all while providing essential hookups. The larger Hanks Creek Park offers a comprehensive suite of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for all visitors.

• **Electric Hookup (30 Amp):** Dedicated 30-amp electric service is provided directly at Campsite #35, suitable for most RVs and motorhomes.
• **Water Hookup:** Potable water is available at the site, offering a critical convenience for cooking, drinking, and cleaning.
• **Maximum Capacity:** The site is generously sized to accommodate up to 10 people, perfect for larger families or a group of friends.
• **Generous Driveway Length:** The back-in driveway boasts a maximum length of 120 feet, comfortably fitting large RVs and trailers, as well as two allowed vehicles.
• **Picnic Table and Fire Pit/Grill:** Each site, including #35, is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring or grill, perfect for cooking meals and enjoying traditional campfire experiences.
• **Restrooms and Showers:** Modern, clean restroom and hot shower facilities are conveniently located within the Hanks Creek Campground.
• **Sanitary Dump Station:** A dump station is provided within the park for RV waste disposal.
• **Pet-Friendly:** Pets are allowed, provided they are kept on a leash and owners adhere to all clean-up guidelines.
• **Camp Host on Duty:** A dedicated camp host is available to assist with arrivals, provide local knowledge, and address any immediate concerns.

✨ Features and Highlights: Why Campsite #35 is a Texas Gem

While the entire Hanks Creek Park area is beautiful, Campsite #35 consistently earns high marks from Texas campers due to several distinct features that set it apart.

• **Ultimate Seclusion and Privacy:** This is arguably the most defining feature. One satisfied customer called it "definitely the coolest campsite in my opinion at Hanks Creek Campground, reason being its privacy... and distance from the road." The long, curved driveway contributes to a profound sense of isolation and tranquility.
• **Direct Water Access:** The site offers **"great view and access to the water"** and to the lake for fishing or swimming. For boat-in access, the site is perfectly situated for easy launching of non-motorized craft like kayaks or immediate access to cast a line.
• **Lakeside Activities:** Sam Rayburn Reservoir is renowned for excellent fishing, particularly for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. The proximity of Campsite #35 to the shoreline means you can literally walk mere feet from your campsite to fish. The broader park also features a boat ramp, a swim beach, and opportunities for jet skiing and water skiing.
• **Natural Piney Woods Ambiance:** Surrounded by the towering pines of the Angelina National Forest, the site provides ample natural shade and a rich backdrop for birding and wildlife viewing, including the presence of the endangered Red-cockaded woodpecker in the surrounding forest.
• **Back-In Parking Convenience:** The large, 120-foot back-in site is designed for ease of use, providing a dedicated space for your RV or trailer setup.

📞 Contact Information

For reservations, general park information, and to obtain your essential gate code, you should use the centralized reservation system for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) parks.

Address: 7JC2+R8, Zavalla, TX 75949, USA (General Area of Hanks Creek Campground)

Official Contact Phone: +1 877-444-6777 (Recreation.gov, for reservations)

Hanks Creek Office Phone: 409-384-5716 (For non-reservation specific park inquiries)

🌟 What is Worth Choosing Campsite #35

Campsite #35 isn't just a number on a map; it's a specific, highly-rated destination for those who prioritize privacy and direct connection to Sam Rayburn Reservoir. You should choose this specific site if you value a truly secluded camping experience that is rare in a developed COE park. The long driveway, the lush natural screening, and the immediate access to the water for fishing or enjoying a quick dip make it an unparalleled spot at Hanks Creek. Texas campers who want to be close to the water yet away from the general traffic of the main campground will find this site to be a worthwhile reservation. It delivers the perfect combination of convenience—with 30-amp electric and water hookups, picnic area, and nearby hot showers—and the rugged, quiet beauty that defines the East Texas Piney Woods.

For Texans searching for the "coolest campsite" at Hanks Creek, as noted by local reviews, Campsite #35 offers a unique, private retreat that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural tranquility of Sam Rayburn Reservoir.