Houston Campground
Closed — The campground is currently closed to the public. The day-use area and swim beach bathhouse remain open. Typically operates seasonally April through October.
Conecuh National Forest Oil and Gas Leasing Availability Analysis
The Decision Notice and Finding of No Significant Impact for the Conecuh National Forest Oil and Gas Leasing Availability Analysis EA was signed by Forest Supervisor Linwood Butler on February 25, 2026. All documents related to this project can be found here:…
Alabama's National Forests begin prescribed fires
Fire managers have begun prescribed fire operations on the National Forests in Alabama, pending all required approvals. We estimate this work to continue through Spring as weather conditions allow. We use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities,…
2026 Fee Free Dates
In Alabama, national forests are great escapes! There’s something for everyone who enjoys the great outdoors, and the fee-free days provide a great opportunity to visit a new place or an old favorite. All standard amenity sites, such as day-use and picnic areas, are waived during fee-free days.…
Rules for Forest Visitors
In the case of an emergency or road side assistance is needed, please call 911.
Leon Brook Hines Lake Closure
The Leon Brook Hines Lake (Escambia County Lake) on the Conecuh National Forest is closed for restocking and dam inspection. A reopening date will be announced at a later time. Additional information can be found…
Shooting Range Prohibitions
ALERT! National Forests in Alabama (Bankhead, Conecuh, Talladega, Tuskegee) Shooting Ranges Restrictions - Alcohol Use, Range Area, Target and Ammunition.
Public Notice Regarding ATVs
PUBLIC NOTICE REGARDING ATVs: All-terrain vehicles and off-highway vehicles are only allowed on two designated trails in Alabama’s national forests. The Kentuck ORV Trail in the Talladega National Forest -Talladega District and Flint Creek Multiple Use Trail in the Bankhead National Forest are…
Rules for Camping
Camping in developed recreation areas is limited to 14 consecutive days and there is a 24 hour waiting period to return. Camping in dispersed areas (hunt camps) is limited to 21 consecutive days. There is a 10 day waiting period before returning to the same area/location. Don't forget:Leaving…
About
Houston Campground is part of the Houston Recreation Area, located in the scenic William B. Bankhead National Forest along the shores of Smith Lake. The recreation area offers a comprehensive outdoor experience with 14 picnic sites, a group shelter accommodating up to 50 people, and various water-based activities centered around the beautiful sand swimming beach. The campground provides modern amenities including a bathhouse with showers, flush toilets, and drinking water from faucets. Day users can enjoy the swimming beach and bathhouse, while overnight campers have access to hiking trails and a boat launch. The recreation area typically operates seasonally from April through October. The surrounding Bankhead National Forest offers opportunities for further exploration with over 90 miles of trails throughout the forest, diverse wildlife habitats, and access to the Sipsey Fork river system. The location provides a peaceful setting with scenic natural beauty characteristic of northwestern Alabama's forested landscape.
Directions
From Houston, AL turn west on Winston County Road 61. Travel 1.5 miles and turn right on Winston County Road 3124 (Forest Service Road 118). Houston Recreation Area is at the end of the road.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | — |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| Houston Recreation Area |
Community Posts
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