Kayakers on a peaceful lake surrounded by autumn foliage at sunset

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

ReservoirCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers)

Brookeland, TX · Boat Ramp · Public

Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers) is a public boat ramp on Angelina River - Sam Rayburn Reservoir near Brookeland, Texas. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.

At a Glance

Water Body

Reservoir

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Reservoir access at Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers) near Brookeland, Texas. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers) sits on Angelina River - Sam Rayburn Reservoir in Texas, giving paddlers access to miles of reservoir shoreline.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Midwestern waterways provide reliable paddling through the warmer months, with vast open spaces and uncrowded conditions.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is Year-round. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers) sits about 10 min from Brookeland, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm reservoir waters make Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers) ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • The upper arms of reservoirs are often calmer than the main body.
  • Bring extra sunscreen — reservoirs offer little shade on the water.
  • Watch for submerged stumps and debris, especially at lower water levels.
  • Early morning and late evening are prime times for calm water and fishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers)?
Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers) is a public boat ramp in Texas. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers)?
Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers) supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers)?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers)?
The best time to paddle at Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers) is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers)?
Water conditions at Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers) include calm, sheltered.
Is Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers) good for beginners?
Yes, Angelina National Forest - Bayou Recreation Area (Five Fingers) is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 31.1294, -94.1179

Quick Facts

State
Texas
Region
Midwest
Getting There
~10 min from Brookeland
Get Directions

31.1294, -94.1179

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