Houston Shelter
Closed — Closed for the season. The pavilion is available for day-use May 1 through October 31. Day-use parking operates May through September. The boat ramp is open year-round.
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 Shelter is a group picnic pavilion located on the scenic shoreline of Lake Lewis Smith within the William B. Bankhead National Forest. This day-use facility accommodates up to 50 people and operates on a first-come, first-served basis during the recreation season. The shelter is part of the Houston Recreation Area, which features a sandy swimming beach, modern bathhouse, boat launch, and access to hiking trails including the High Rock Loop and Fox Run Loop. Bankhead National Forest is known as the Land of a Thousand Waterfalls and encompasses the Sipsey Wilderness with its limestone bluffs, old-growth forests, and abundant streams. Lake Lewis Smith offers over 500 miles of shoreline with clear, deep water ideal for fishing Kentucky Spotted Bass and Hybrid Striped Bass, as well as motorized and non-motorized boating and water skiing. Note that Houston Campground (a separate facility in the recreation area) remains closed to the public, but the day-use areas, pavilion, and boat ramp are operational during their respective seasons.
Directions
From Double Springs, take Highway 278 east for 8 miles. Turn south on County Road 63 and continue for 4 miles. Turn right onto Forest Service Road 118 and travel 1 mile to the recreation area.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $20 - $24 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (205) 489-5111 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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