One of the great things about Texas is its never too cold to camp, there is however a 4 month time frame when its quite hot and camping is less than desirable.
From the Longview/ Kilgore area you are about 4 hours from downtown Houston, however you can reach the City park of Lake Houston in about 3hours. This park is located on the northern most part of Houston and is a great stop on your way to the Houston Airport that is also situated in the norther part of the Houston.
Unlike many city parks this one has overnight camping including a full bath house.
They also have family style bunk cabins for rent, along with indoor and outdoor pavilions.
I did not venture too far onto the trails but the whole area has that back woods bayou meets pines feel that is unique to this part of the county.
