Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area
Open year-round. Both first-come-first-served and reservable sites available. No current alerts or closures.
National Forests and Grasslands Burn Ban Information
The National Forests and Grasslands in Texas would like to remind all our visitors to check with their local, county or city authorities for any ordinances on outdoor burning and to follow any restrictions which may be in place while visiting the national forests and grasslands. These counties…
National Forests and Grasslands in Texas -Occupancy and Use
This Forest and Grasslands Order is in regard to prohibitions while occupying or using the national forests and grasslands in Texas.
Davy Crockett National Forest, Holly Bluff Boat Ramp
Forest Order regarding Holly Bluff Boat Ramp located in Davy Crockett National Forest.
Sabine National Forest-Trail Between the Lakes
CAUTION: ACTIVE TIMBER OPERATIONBeginning Monday August 4, 2025, near the Trail Between the LakesActive timber cutting operation may be occurring in the vicinity of the trail.Timber operations can be dangerous, USE EXTREME CAUTION.Dangers include heavy machinery, broken trees, limbs and other…
Davy Crockett National Forest
The Wilderness section (Big Slough) of the 4C trail is impassable due to flood damage. Visitors may encounter large, downed trees, washed-out trail markers, making the trail difficult to navigate. At this time, we strongly recommend avoiding the Wilderness portion of the trail for your safety. The…
Sam Houston National Forest Closure Order
Forest Closure Order regarding the Sam Houston National Forest.
Forest order NFGT Fire Closure 2022
Forest Order regarding fire related activity on the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas.
About
Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area surrounds a 45-acre lake in the heart of Davy Crockett National Forest. The lake originated as a log pond for the Central Coal and Coke Company sawmill that operated from 1902 to 1920. In 1936, the Civilian Conservation Corps transformed the area into a public recreation site, and much of that historic infrastructure remains today. The campground offers 56 campsites spread across multiple loops, with the Dogwood Loop providing 30-amp electric hookups and accommodating vehicles up to 50 feet. Sites include centralized drinking water, flush toilets, and hot showers. A designated swimming beach with playground, two wooden fishing piers, an earthen pier, fishing platform, and boat ramp provide water-based recreation. Only electric motors are permitted on the lake. Three hiking trails depart from the recreation area: the 1.5-mile Tall Pines Trail, the 0.75-mile Trail Tamers, and the 20-mile Four C Trail that traverses diverse forest types to a scenic overlook. The nearby Big Slough Wilderness Area offers additional opportunities for solitude and primitive backcountry experiences.
Directions
From Crockett, take State Highway 7 east for 15 miles. The recreation area is on the left between the towns of Ratcliff and Kennard.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $15 - $35 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 60ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 60ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | Yes |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (936) 655-2299 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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