About HANKS CREEK
Overview 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.Recreation 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.Facilities The park features 47 campsites with electric hookups. Additional amenities include group camping, a playground, boat ramp and hot showers.Natural Features 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. Nearby Attractions 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.
How to Get There
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.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to HANKS CREEK
Heading to HANKS CREEK? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for HANKS CREEK?
No central reservation system listed for HANKS CREEK. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232594) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to HANKS CREEK?
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.
How do I contact HANKS CREEK?
You can reach the park at phone: 409-384-5716.
References & Official Resources
