U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

For those of us living in Texas, the call of the great outdoors often leads us to our incredible state parks and campgrounds. Nestled in the heart of the Pineywoods region of East Texas, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campground, specifically Brushy Creek at Lake O' the Pines, stands out as a prime destination. This isn't just any camping spot; it's a meticulously maintained natural haven managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, offering a quintessential East Texas outdoor experience right here in our backyard. Whether you're an avid angler, a family looking for a serene getaway, or an RVer seeking spacious sites with beautiful views, Brushy Creek has something special for everyone.

As Texans, we cherish our wide-open spaces and the diverse landscapes our state offers. Lake O' the Pines, with its sprawling waters and surrounding lush pine forests, perfectly embodies this spirit. Brushy Creek Campground, situated along the banks of this magnificent lake, provides an accessible and affordable way to immerse ourselves in this beauty. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with nature, all within a reasonable drive for many residents of Northeast Texas.

While recent customer feedback mentions some issues with administrative contact and personal property, it's important for locals to understand the overall picture of this campground. Such feedback, while valuable for ongoing improvement, does not reflect the overwhelming positive experiences related to the natural beauty, well-maintained sites, and recreational opportunities that thousands of visitors enjoy annually at Brushy Creek. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages numerous facilities, and specific issues can arise, but the core experience of camping at Brushy Creek remains highly regarded.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive and factual overview of Brushy Creek Campground at Lake O' the Pines, from the perspective of a local Texan. We'll explore its strategic location, the array of services and amenities it provides, and the unique features that make it a cherished spot for outdoor enthusiasts across our state. Our goal is to give you all the information you need to confidently plan your next East Texas adventure, ensuring you can make the most of this fantastic natural resource.

Get ready to discover why Brushy Creek Campground continues to be a go-to destination for Texans seeking a peaceful, picturesque, and activity-rich outdoor experience. It's more than just a place to stay; it's a piece of Texas paradise.

Brushy Creek Campground, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is ideally located at 2669 FM 726, Jefferson, TX 75657, USA. This prime location places it directly on the shores of the expansive Lake O' the Pines, deep within the scenic Pineywoods region of Northeast Texas. For many Texans, particularly those in the eastern and northern parts of the state, this campground is remarkably accessible, offering a convenient escape into nature without requiring extensive travel.

The address places you near the charming, historic town of Jefferson, which adds an extra layer of appeal to your camping trip. After a day of enjoying the lake and forest, you can easily venture into Jefferson to explore its antique shops, historic sites, and local eateries. The drive to Brushy Creek is generally straightforward, with well-maintained FM roads leading directly to the park entrance. Specific directions often involve traveling a few miles northwest on Highway 49 from Jefferson, then turning onto FM 729, and finally onto FM 726. This ease of access makes it a popular choice for weekend getaways and longer vacations for Texas families.

Its position within the Ark-La-Tex portion of East Texas means it's also a convenient hub for exploring not just local Texas attractions, but also nearby areas in Arkansas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma. This makes Brushy Creek Campground an excellent basecamp for those wanting to experience the unique cultural and natural blend of this tri-state area. The campground’s design and layout, with sites offering ample space, also contribute to its accessibility for various types of vehicles, including larger RVs and trailers.

The beauty of Brushy Creek's location lies in its ability to offer a truly secluded feeling amidst the tall pines and lake views, while still being comfortably connected to civilization. This balance is key for Texans who appreciate the serenity of the wilderness but also value proximity to amenities and attractions, making it a truly practical and desirable camping destination.

• RV Campsites with Hookups: Brushy Creek Campground features a significant number of RV campsites, many equipped with essential water and electric hookups (50/30 AMP options available). This ensures a comfortable stay for RVers, allowing for power, fresh water, and the convenience of modern amenities in a natural setting.
• Tent Campsites: In addition to RV sites, the campground offers dedicated tent campsites. Some of these tent sites also have electricity available, providing a hybrid camping experience, while others are more primitive for those seeking a traditional tenting adventure.
• Restrooms with Showers: Well-maintained restroom facilities with showers are located in each section of the park. These individual shower rooms offer privacy and convenience, a highly valued amenity for campers after a day of outdoor activities.
• Sewer Dump Station: A convenient sewer dump station is provided within the park, allowing RVers to easily empty their wastewater tanks before departure, ensuring a clean and hassle-free end to their trip.
• Boat Ramp and Courtesy Dock: For water enthusiasts, a multi-lane boat ramp and courtesy dock are available, making it easy to launch boats, kayaks, and canoes directly onto Lake O' the Pines. This is a significant draw for fishing and boating activities.
• Swimming Beach: The campground includes a designated swimming beach area, offering a safe and enjoyable spot for families and individuals to cool off and play in the lake, especially during the warmer Texas months.
• Playground: A playground is on-site, providing a dedicated space for children to play and expend energy, making the campground very family-friendly.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite, whether for RV or tent, comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring/grill, facilitating outdoor dining and traditional campfire experiences.
• Day Use Area: Brushy Creek also has a day-use area with picnic sites, a basketball court, and a swim beach, offering amenities for visitors who are not staying overnight but wish to enjoy the park for the day.

• Beautiful Lake O' the Pines Views: Many campsites offer "beautiful views of the lake" and are often situated right along the water, providing picturesque scenery and direct access for water activities like kayaking or canoeing.
• Spacious & Shaded Sites: Campers praise the "spacious sites that allow for plenty of room to roam" and note the abundance of "beautiful pine trees that provide plenty of shade," creating a comfortable and non-crowded atmosphere.
• Pineywoods Environment: Immerse yourself in the lush East Texas Pineywoods, known for its tall trees and rich biodiversity, offering a serene and visually appealing backdrop for your camping experience.
• Abundant Recreational Opportunities: Lake O' the Pines is a hub for activities, including excellent fishing (largemouth, spotted, white bass, crappie, catfish, sunfish), boating, water sports, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Bald eagle sightings are common in fall and winter.
• Clean Facilities: Despite its rustic setting, the campground is noted for "clean facilities," including "decent bathrooms" and well-maintained grounds, enhancing the overall comfort of your stay.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With a playground, designated swimming areas, and ample space for kids to ride bikes, Brushy Creek is an ideal destination for families looking for an engaging outdoor adventure.
• Proximity to Historic Jefferson: The campground's close location to Jefferson, TX, allows campers to easily explore the town's rich history, antique shops, and local attractions, blending outdoor adventure with cultural exploration.
• Managed by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: As a COE-managed property, the campground generally adheres to high standards of maintenance and offers reliable facilities, although guests should be aware of procedures for any issues that may arise.

Address: 2669 FM 726, Jefferson, TX 75657, USA

Phone: (903) 665-2336 (For campground inquiries, Recreation.gov also lists 903-777-3491 and 903-777-3383 for Brushy Creek Day Use/Park Office.)

Mobile Phone: +1 903-665-2336

For Texans seeking a quintessential outdoor experience, Brushy Creek Campground at Lake O' the Pines, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is an outstanding choice that truly caters to our local needs and preferences. Its strategic location in the heart of the East Texas Pineywoods, just a stone's throw from the historic charm of Jefferson, offers the perfect blend of natural seclusion and convenient accessibility. We don't have to venture far to find ourselves immersed in breathtaking lake views and towering pine forests, making it ideal for everything from a spur-of-the-moment weekend escape to a longer, more relaxing vacation.

The campground’s robust offerings, including numerous RV and tent sites with essential hookups, clean restrooms with showers, and convenient dump stations, ensure a comfortable and hassle-free stay. For families, the presence of a playground and a dedicated swimming beach means there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. And for the avid outdoorsman, the excellent fishing and boating opportunities on Lake O' the Pines are simply unparalleled in the region. The readily available boat ramps make launching your craft incredibly easy, inviting you to explore the vast waters.

While a few past concerns have been raised regarding administrative communication for specific issues, it’s important for fellow Texans to recognize that the vast majority of visitors consistently praise the park for its "beautiful views," "spacious sites," and "quiet place to unwind." The overall experience at Brushy Creek reflects the dedication to maintaining a high-quality outdoor environment, a standard often seen in U.S. Army Corps of Engineers properties. It’s a testament to the fact that our state offers top-tier recreational opportunities that are both affordable and genuinely enjoyable.

In essence, Brushy Creek Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s a vibrant hub for outdoor recreation and a peaceful sanctuary for those looking to reconnect with nature. It embodies the adventurous spirit of Texas, providing diverse activities from fishing and boating to wildlife viewing and simply relaxing by the water. For any Texan looking to experience the beauty of Lake O' the Pines and the serenity of the Pineywoods, Brushy Creek Campground is an undeniable local favorite and a highly recommended destination for your next outdoor adventure.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

2669 FM 726, Jefferson, TX 75657, USA