Double Lake Recreation Area offers several activities

Double Lake Recreation Area outside Cold Spring, Texas

Double Lake Recreation Area offers several activities including swimming, boating, biking, hiking and of course camping. It's a great weekend fitness trip or family outing.

The campground location is about one hour north of Houston, Texas in the Sam Houston National Forest.

The southwest end of Double Lake has a designated swimming area, picnic tables and fire pits. Concessions are available during summer months as well as boat rentals. The lake is very calm and great for novice flat water kayaking or just exploring the banks of the 23 acre lake.

Hurricane Ike forced a closure of the campground in the fall of 2008, but reopened this spring. There is still plenty of evidence the area was hit hard by the hurricane as several fallen trees created natural piers into the water. However, it brings out the turtles and birds, adding interest when walking, running or boating around the lake.

The trees fell across the five mile hike and eight mile bike trails as well. However, it doesn't hold the same visual charm if you're having to carry your bike over a fallen gum tree or red oak, so these trails have been cleared of debris. Also, if you plan to walk or bike you shouldn't expect off-road vehicles on the trail. They are not allowed.

The eight mile mountain bike trail is said to be a considerably easy ride as it has well maintained trails and a lack of hills. According to information on the Greater Houston Off Road Biking Association website the elevations of the bike trail range from 78 feet to 128 feet. See their map for details.

The paved trail around the lake has some buckles and breaks but it is still easy to navigate. There are several places to stop and rest or sit on a bench and enjoy a view. Expect to see some bicycles which aren't allowed on the trail, but the riders have always been courteous. The walk around the lake is only about 20-30 minutes, so you might consider the five mile hiking trail. For the more adventurous, this trail has an access point to the 128 mile Lone Star Hiking Trail.

If you prefer a more leisure activity, bass and catfish are among several types of fish stocked in the lake. There are many fishing spots including several land docks and three piers. If planning to fish from a boat, only paddle powered and electric motors are allowed. No gas motors are allowed
on the lake.

The campground has large, clean bathrooms that include showers on each side of the lake. Drinking water is also available throughout the campground area. Most of the campsites are somewhat private, being they are not too close and often separated by bushes and trees.

Day use of the park is only $6.00 per vehicle. Overnight stays are a minimum two nights at $18.00 per night. For camping reservations or general information call 1-877-444-6777.

Online:
Reservations and fee information
Double Lake Recreation Area
Sam Houston National Forest
Double Lake map