Mission Tejas State Park RV & Campground Guide
Texas
Experience the rich history of East Texas at Mission Tejas State Park. Located near Grapeland between Houston and Dallas, this site has been home to indigenous people, Spanish settlers, and European pioneers for centuries. As you hike or bike on the park’s trail network, keep an eye out for the remnants left by these historic inhabitants. The landscape is striking, dominated by towering pine trees and silent ponds. From your campsite under the trees, you’re never far from well-shaded paths and peaceful afternoons spent fishing in the forest. The changing leaves and pleasant weather make fall one of the most beautiful times to visit, but the park is open year-round.
Spring 50-75 F
Summer 72-95 F
Fall 55-85 F
Winter 42-62 F
Grapeland, TX
RV Resorts & Campsites in Mission Tejas State Park
An RV is one of the best ways to enjoy a camping trip to Mission Tejas State Park. Bringing a shelter on wheels provides a convenient escape from the sweltering summer weather and cold winter wind. If you aren’t ready to make the commitment to buy an RV, an RV rental is an affordable alternative. Pick a luxury model to add a glamping twist to your vacation, or use your trip as an opportunity to check out the RV you’ve had your eye on.
Mission Tejas State Park Campground
Sleep under the trees at Mission Tejas State Park Campground. With fewer than 20 sites, it makes for a peaceful base camp. Twelve of the sites offer water and electricity; two others come with water. Enjoy dinner outdoors on your picnic table, and make a campfire in your site's fire ring. There’s even a grill for preparing classic camp meals. Close by, you’ll find restrooms with hot showers. Sites range from $10 to $15 per night, plus the park’s entrance fee.
Salmon Lake Park
Located in rustic Grapeland, Salmon Lake Park is a beautiful and historic place to make camp. This family-owned facility includes an RV park and an event center. The grounds are beautiful and impeccably maintained. Fall asleep to the sound of the waves on the small lake, and enjoy quiet strolls around the green lawns. When it’s warm, hop in the lake for a swim. The pull-through and back-in RV sites come with full hookups and your choice of 30-amp or 50-amp electricity. Rates start at $25 per night, with discounts for longer stays.
Crockett Family Resort
Your crew will be delighted with the Crockett Family Resort—it’s packed with activities for adults and kids. After you park your RV in the well-shaded, full-hookup sites, take the short walk down to Houston County Lake for a swim or an afternoon of bass fishing. You can also check out the pool and splash pad, bring the kids to the playground, or take out a paddleboat from the marina. Be sure to keep an eye out for the deer and bald eagles that frequent the area. With the resort's on-site laundry and showers, you can feel fresh after a day in the sun. When the sun starts to set, head to the water for one of the park’s legendary sunsets. RV sites range from $34-$37 per night for two people, with an added $3 per additional person.
What to Do at
Mission Tejas State Park
Inside Mission Tejas State Park
Watch history come alive at Mission Tejas State Park. Check out the wheel ruts on the fabled El Camino Real on the Nabedache Loop Trail and examine the 1800s-era Rice Family Log Home. Walk through a re-creation of the Spanish San Francisco de Los Tejas mission that’s rumored to have stood on the site. With more than 8.5 miles of trails, it’s easy to get out into the wilderness. Paths are wide, well-maintained, and mostly level. If you’re bringing little ones, get your fishing gear and cast into the small pond within the park’s boundaries. The park office loans out fishing poles and geocaching gear to visitors.
Outside Mission Tejas State Park
Mission Tejas State Park is located at the northern tip of Davy Crockett National Forest. From your campsite, it’s a quick drive to some of Texas’ most fascinating historic sites and lovely outdoor recreation areas. A variety of small towns sit within a 30-minute drive, ensuring a steady supply of entertainment and dining.
Restaurants
Taqueria Cindy
Small and informal, this Mexican restaurant is a fun option for quick meals or takeout. Try the burritos or tacos.
Type: Mexican
Location: 166 San Antonio Rd, Alto, TX 75925
Lindsey’s Lazy “L” BBQ
Just 20 minutes from Mission Tejas State Park, this classic barbecue spot offers hearty meat portions and filling sides. You can also select from a variety of sandwich options.
Type: BBQ
Location: 12157 U.S. 69, Alto, TX 75925
Pop and Glamma's Diner and Pie Shack
Known for its super-friendly staff and home-cooked food, this welcoming spot is a must-visit eatery. Try the ribs, and be sure to leave room for a slice of pie or cobbler.
Type: Home cooked food
Location: 6676, Grapeland, TX 75844
Grapeland Cafe
Come hungry to Grapeland Cafe—it specializes in hearty, rich comfort food. The lunch buffet, in particular, is worth the trip.
Type: Comfort food
Location: 12946 U.S. 287, Grapeland, TX 75844
Wildwood Grill
Offering some of the best fried chicken in the area, Wildwood Grill is ideal for lunch or dinner. Go for a breast with a side of macaroni and cheese, or try the hearty chicken sandwich.
Type: Chicken
Location: U.S. 287, Crockett, TX 75835
Shopping
Bella
If you make it out to Crockett while you’re visiting Mission Tejas State Park, be sure to stop at this lovely gift store. With products ranging from handcrafted souvenirs to comical gifts, it’s a fun place to browse.
Location: 406 E Houston Ave, Crockett, TX 75835
Hearts Desire Ladies Apparel
Grab a Texas-themed T-shirt or another piece of clothing at this women’s clothing store.
Location: 518 E Houston Ave, Crockett, TX 75835
Brookshire Brothers
Located about 20 minutes from Mission Tejas State Park, this friendly grocery store is a great place to restock your RV kitchen.
Location: 272 Marcus St, Alto, TX 75835
Christy & Co.
Browse an eclectic selection of women’s clothing at this small boutique, which sits about 20 miles from the park.
Location: 908 U.S. 287 N, Grapeland, TX 75844
Zackery Farms
With its selection of farm supplies and handmade goods, Zackery Farms makes a fascinating stop.
Location: 518 County Rd 2250, Grapeland, TX 75844
Sightseeing
The Town of Weeping Mary
This tiny town, which is located 8 miles from Mission Tejas State Park, was originally settled by freed slaves after the Civil War. You won’t find many businesses, but it’s worth the trip to appreciate the long and storied history.
Location: Cherokee County, TX
Four C National Recreation Trail
Stretching for 20 miles through the Davy Crockett National Forest, this beautiful trail is perfect for a leisurely day hike. The trip takes you through hardwood forests and sloughs and up to beautiful viewpoints. Plus, since there are no bikes, horses, or ORVs allowed, you’re guaranteed a peaceful hike.
Location: Kennard, TX
Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area
Cool off on a hot Texas summer day at this beautiful lake, which offers a swimming area and a picnic spot. On cold days, try fishing or go for a hike around the beautiful shoreline.
Location: Ratcliff, TX
Houston County Lake
Fish for bass, sunfish, and bluegill in this lake, which is known for its largemouth bass and spotted bass population. You’ll find a boat ramp at the western end of the lake.
Location: West-central Houston County, TX
Grapeland Safari
If you’re camping with little ones, be sure to visit this unusual spot. Drive through the park and watch animals enjoying the great outdoors; you’ll see kangaroos, buffalo, deer, camels, zebras, and more. Then, stop by the petting zoo and get up close to smaller animals.
Location: Grapeland, TX
How to Get to
Mission Tejas State Park
Mission Tejas State Park is located just off Highway 21, between the towns of Alto and Crockett. From Interstate 45, you can reach Highway 21 easily via Highway 19, Highway 84, or Highway 287, among others.
Entering Mission Tejas State Park
Mission Tejas State Park is open all year; daily hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The park's entrance is located in Weches.
Adult : $3
Children 12 and under are free
Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or both, Mission Tejas State Park is well worth a visit. If you agree, the team at RVshare would love to hear about your trip. When you post about the park on social media, feel free to tag RVshare to let the staff and fans follow along. Not a social media user? No problem—email your pictures, stories, and RVing tips to memories@rvshare.com.