By:
Submission
Hanks Creek Park has something for everyone, with plenty of water sports on Sam Rayburn Reservoir and volleyball, mountain biking, wild life viewing and birding for those who want to stay on shore.
The Red-cockaded woodpecker, an endangered species, is found throughout the forest surrounding the reservoir. The bird makes its home by pecking cavities in large, living pine trees.
Fishing is excellent for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish and sunfish, with frequent fishing tournaments. The lake is also popular for jet skiing, water skiing and swimming.
The park features 47 campsites with electric hookups. Additional amenities include group camping, a playground, boat ramp and hot showers.
Sam Rayburn Reservoir, also called Lake Sam Rayburn, boasts over 114,000 surface acres, making it the largest man-made lake completely in Texas. It's surrounded by the Angelina National Forest, and is within short proximity to the Sabine and Davy Crockett National Forests.
The 20,700-acre Bannister Wildlife Management Area is on the northern peninsula of the lake. Hikers and bikers can come here to explore the designated Eastern Wild Turkey restoration site.
From Zavalla, TX, take State Hwy 147 northeast for 1/4 mile, then turn north on FM 2109, go 8 miles to FM 2801. Turn right (east) on FM 2801 and go 2 miles to the park entrance. Follow signs into the campground.
Nice place love the price big sites some on water but they go fast
Our site 1B not a water site but it definitely worked
Great camping, primitive, tent with elec and water or RV. Most sites near the lake and boat ramps. Spacious and serene, but absolutely no wifi service...which made it even better for me. Owned by Corp. Of Engineers near the Angelina National Forest.
Love my camp site. So peaceful. Park is clean My dogs locked me out of my car, during my stay. Park attendant went out of his way to help me. Very nice.
I had previously rated Hank's 5 star. However, after our May 2023 stay, I was happy to see some progress. Dock still laying on ramp making it difficult to launch without damaging the boat. Hope they don't prematurely end the season early. Some of the best camping and fishing are October and November.
Great place for a quick disconnect from the busy world!
I stayed on a site that included a shelter, water and electricity included. Ladies at the front desk were friendly and helpful.
A few details:
*restrooms were clean and close to site
*we had little to no cell service (which wasn’t a bad thing)
*one of the quietest campsites I’ve been too, even at night
*swim area was closed off due to COVID restrictions
*quite a few boat ramps
