Hey everyone,
Sorry I've been quiet so far this month. With work, the farm, appointments, kids, and now just getting over a bout of flu, it's been hectic to say the least. Anyway, I wanted to let you know we have been looking into the next trip. Many have expressed a weekend event to either Davey Crockett NF or Sam Houston NF. Both seem to be great destinations, with SHNF having the better selection of trails. The only issue I see is neither seems to have any good locations for a large group campsite outside of the typical RV sites. Even then, the sites have a max occupancy of 8 people/2 vehicles. Many are also first-come-first-serve, so guaranteeing we all get sites close together may be slim. There is Huntsville State Park literally next door to SHNF with some good sites and easy access to the NF. Again, the 8 people/2 vehicle rule applies. Also, almost all the sites for weekends are already booked for the next couple months. Still looking as they have 165 sites available, so maybe something will come up.
A couple suggestions are: going during the week instead (issue for those with kids in school or can't get off work) or heading somewhere else not so busy (probably no trails). Sulfur Springs Camp, near Colorado Bend State Park looks promising. It's first-come-first-serve and no trails, but does have 3 miles of river front property available for tent camping. Other places with both trails and large sites are available but much farther away, so more than a weekend trip.
Lastly, due to appointments, we won't be able to make any trip until after May 8. The next meet up is May 6, so we can all get together and discuss options then.