Martin Dies, Jr. State Park

Introduction of Martin Dies, Jr. State Park

Martin Dies Jr. State Park in eastern Texas is a scenic riverside RV getaway located at the confluence of two rivers. Over seven miles of hiking and biking trails wind through the Big Thicket, an ecosystem home to hundreds of bird, mammal, and plant species. Armadillos are common in the park, as are white-tailed deer, foxes, and the occasional bobcat.

Anglers will have plenty to do when they visit the park. You can catch catfish, bluegill, largemouth and spotted bass, and crappie on the Angelina and Neches rivers, as well as the B.A. Steinhagen Reservoir. Hunters can also visit the Angelina-Neches Wildlife Management Area, which has a large population of deer, hogs, and squirrels.

Two main RV campgrounds are located on the reservoir’s shores, providing stunning views of the water. Every site has electrical hookups, and some also have water and sewer hookups for your RV. The campgrounds are pet-friendly and conveniently located near the park’s boat launches and day use areas.

Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Camping

These campsites are just south of the Walnut Ridge Unit. All of the campsites have electrical hookups, fire pits, and picnic tables, and some have water and sewer hookups as well. The campground is also pet-friendly, as long as dogs are kept on a leash. The campground has a boat launch, and you’ll be just minutes from the park’s day use area and a number of hiking trails.

Both campgrounds accept advance reservations online or by phone and are open all year. Sites must be reserved at least a day in advance and can be reserved up to five months in advance. Save your spot as soon as possible because the campground fills up quickly, especially in late spring and early fall.

This campground has 65 campsites, each with electrical hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits. The campground welcomes pets, but all dogs must be kept on a leash. You’ll be close to swimming areas and boat launches that will take you out onto the reservoir. The Island Trail in the park is located just north of the campground.

Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Activities

Hunting

If you want to go hunting while staying at the park, go to the Angelina-Neches Wildlife Management Area, which is right next to it. There are plenty of deer, hogs, and squirrels to be found. Duck hunters can launch their boats from the North and South Cherokee Unit boat ramps.

Most areas of the park are off-limits to hunting, so check with park officials to ensure you aren’t hunting in a prohibited area. For all game, you’ll also need proper Texas state hunting licences and must follow any state regulations.

Fishing

The waters of B.A. Steinhagen Reservoir are home to a diverse array of fish species. Almost any time of year, you can catch largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappie, and catfish. Catfish are the most common catch due to the lake’s shallow waters being a fertile breeding ground for them. You can also go to the Angelina River, which has a large crappie population.

Most species of fish can be caught all year, but white bass are most abundant in the spring. There are several boat ramps throughout the park, and you can fish from the shores or pier without a Texas state fishing licence.

Biking

Because the park’s trails are multi-purpose, you can bring a bike and explore the park’s natural wonders at a faster pace. The Big Thicket, a diverse ecosystem of birds, plants, and mammals supported by the park’s two rivers, can be explored.

You can rent a bike from the park office if you don’t have your own. Not all trails are accessible by bike, so consult the park’s trail map to determine which trails are only accessible by foot.

Hiking

Martin Dies Jr. State Park has a variety of hiking opportunities for RV campers. The trails wind through the deep woods surrounding the lake and along the banks of the Angelina and Neches rivers. The park has over seven miles of trails in total.

Explore the nearly one-mile Island Trail in the heart of B.A. Steinhagen Reservoir. Trail maps are available at park headquarters, and an interactive trail map is available on their website.

Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Location

The park is in eastern Texas, near the Louisiana border. It’s a short drive from both Houston and New Orleans, and it’s easily accessible from US-190. If you’re coming from Houston, take I-69 east to US-190 and you’ll be there in less than two hours. Take I-10 west out of town from New Orleans and you’ll be at the park in under five hours.

The park only has one road that leads directly to the two campgrounds. The road is wide enough to accommodate large trucks with ease. Because the park is located directly on the banks of two rivers, it occasionally floods.

Parking

Parking is available

Public Transport

Public Transport is not available