X0202 3 2006-03-27 0 0001015293 HOUSTON EXPLORATION CO THX 0001357607 Campbell Carolyn M 1100 LOUISIANA ST. SUITE 2000 HOUSTON TX 77002 0 1 0 0 Sr. V.P. and General Counsel common stock ($0.01 par value) 5000 D employee stock options (right to buy) 50.41 2007-03-27 2016-03-27 common stock 15000 D Restricted shares were granted pursuant to the Company's Amended and Restated 2004 Long-Term Incentive Plan, and are restricted from sale or transfer until fully vested. Shares fully vest and restrictions are terminated at the end of three years from the grant date as set forth in the award agreement. Employee stock options vest in annual 1/3 increments beginning on the first anniversary of the date of grant and expire 10 years from the date of grant. /s/Carolyn M Campbell 2006-03-29