Boykin Springs, Angelina National Forest, Zavalla, Texas

## Overview Boykin Springs is one of the most striking natural spring sites in East Texas, tucked within the 153,000-acre Angelina National Forest near Zavalla. Multiple pipes channel flowing spring water that feeds a small creek winding through the surrounding forest. Some of the springs bubble up with enough force to break apart rocks, while others cascade down drops of six to eight feet. The water has been reported to carry a slight sulfur character, which is common in springs of this region and often associated with the underlying geological formations of the East Texas Piney Woods. The Boykin Springs Recreation Area is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and offers far more than just the springs. A scenic nine-acre fishing lake (no additional fee; motorboats are permitted) sits within the recreation area, along with a small pavilion, a sluiceway, and charming stepping-stone bridges made of rocks. The campground can accommodate up to 74 people across a variety of individual and group campsites — many of which are beautifully situated, and some even feature their own small spring seeps. Visitors consistently describe the area as quiet, well-maintained, and welcoming, with fellow campers who help keep the grounds tidy and in great shape. The broader Angelina National Forest provides an impressive network of trails: roughly 200 miles of hiking trails, 85 miles of ATV/off-road trails, 145 miles of horse trails, and 11 miles of bicycle trails — making Boykin Springs an excellent base camp for extended outdoor adventures. ### Fees & Access - **Day Use:** FREE - **Camping:** $6 per night (includes parking for up to 2 vehicles) - **Shelter Rental:** $25 per day (reservations available at [recreation.gov](http://www.recreation.gov)) - **Access:** 24/7 public access More information is available from the U.S. Forest Service at [fs.usda.gov](http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/texas/recreation/picnickinginfo/recarea/?recid=30208&actid=71). ## Directions 1. From Zavalla, Texas, head east on **Highway 63** for approximately 10.5 miles. 2. Turn right (south) onto **Forest Service Road 313**. 3. Continue on FSR 313 for about 2.5 miles until you reach the Boykin Springs Recreation Area and campground. The GPS coordinates for the springs are approximately **31.0591, -94.2775**. The route is well-signed once you reach Forest Service Road 313, but cell service can be limited in the national forest, so downloading offline maps before your trip is recommended. ## What to Expect Upon arrival, you'll find a lush, shaded forest setting typical of the East Texas Piney Woods. The springs flow from multiple points, with water channeled through pipes and emerging naturally from the ground. The creek created by the springs is a highlight — clear water moving over rocks and through small cascades. The slight sulfur scent reported by visitors is not uncommon for natural springs in this part of Texas. The recreation area is well-suited for families, solo adventurers, and groups alike. The nine-acre lake offers fishing opportunities, and the stepping-stone bridges and sluiceway add scenic charm to any walk through the area. Campsites range from group-friendly to more secluded spots nestled among the trees, some with their own spring seeps nearby. Because the area is within a national forest, expect a rustic but well-maintained experience. The campground tends to be quiet and uncrowded, especially on weekdays. Seasonal conditions can affect water flow — spring and fall are generally the best times to visit for comfortable weather and reliable spring activity. Summers in East Texas can be hot and humid, so plan accordingly with plenty of water and sun protection. With hundreds of miles of multi-use trails radiating from the area, Boykin Springs is an ideal starting point for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, or ATV adventures deeper into the Angelina National Forest.