Lake Texoma spans 89,000 surface acres along the Texas-Oklahoma border, making it the 12th largest Corps of Engineers lake in the United States. The lake's campgrounds vary significantly in terrain, from wooded areas with ample shade to open shorelines with sandy beaches for swimming and water access. Summer temperatures regularly climb above 100°F, requiring careful planning for outdoor activities.
What to do
Hiking trails: Eisenhower State Park Campground offers several trails with varying difficulty levels. "The trails are great and the Rangers are friendly and share a lot of knowledge. Cool beach with caves," notes Susan F.
Fishing spots: Lake Texoma is known for striper, catfish, black bass and crappie fishing. Lake Texoma State Park provides good shore fishing access. "Great fishing-local guides available. Boat traffic can get busy and loud in summer," according to Keri F.
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas with sandy beaches. "Swimming area and trails along the cliffs are exquisite," mentions Amie M. about Eisenhower State Park. The sandy beaches allow for comfortable barefoot walking and wading.
Group activities: Lake Texoma campgrounds accommodate large gatherings. "Our big group has gone to Eisenhower twice. The park is on Lake Texoma. We went to kayak and camp," shares Amy J., highlighting the park's versatility for different group activities.
What campers like
Shaded sites: Burns Run West offers excellent tree cover. "The sites were a good size and had lots of shade. We had an amazing view of the lake," writes Christina H. This natural canopy provides crucial relief during hot summer months.
Waterfront access: Many campers appreciate direct lake access from their sites. "Wooded sites are perfect for a hammock. Lots of choices, many close to water and some right next to docks/launches," Harry H. reports about Eisenhower State Park.
Concrete pads: Level sites with concrete pads are available at several campgrounds. "Nice campground with level concrete pads (west side) and gravel (east)," Jeff P. notes about Juniper Point. This feature is especially important during rainy periods when the ground can become saturated.
Clean facilities: Paradise on Lake Texoma receives praise for maintenance. "This place is beautiful and the staff is wonderful! Bathrooms are very clean," states Jacob C. The campground also features a gated entrance for added security.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most Lake Texoma campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "I preregistered and thought I was ready to go. The gate guard said I still had to go inside to check-in," Chris P. mentions about Eisenhower State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Lake levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year. "As far as I could see the flooding impacted many of the gravel sites which were not level and in some cases sloped off on one side," Susan L. reports about Juniper Point.
Water hookup distance: Some sites have unusual utility arrangements. "Fair warning, the water hookups are FAR from the site. Do not under estimate how far these things are. With 75ft of hose - we were barely reaching the nozzle," Taylor V. warns about Paradise on Lake Texoma.
Traffic patterns: Noise and dust can be issues at some locations. "The worst thing was the traffic. People would drive to swim, fish, use the restroom, visit others in adjacent campsites or just cruise around with no aim from 8 AM to 10PM Thursday thru Sunday afternoon," according to B H. at Platter Flats.
Tips for camping with families
Equestrian camping: Platter Flats offers a unique experience with its horse facilities. "Half of the campground is an equestrian camp. We had two kids with us and we loved walking around the campground and seeing all the horses!" shares Rachael H. This provides an educational opportunity for children interested in animals.
Beach access: Families should consider proximity to swimming areas. "Nice swimming area for the two young kids. Water hookups right next to campsite," Bric A. comments about Burns Run West, though he cautions about cleanliness issues.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds provide dedicated play areas for children. "They have a playground and dog area I believe too but did not use," Ryan H. mentions about Riverview RV Park, which offers secure, gated grounds.
Pet-friendly options: Many Lake Texoma campgrounds welcome pets, making them suitable for family trips with animals. "Most camp sites are shaded with pull through sites full hook ups, well maintained and quiet," Robert H. notes about Eisenhower State Park, which accommodates pets throughout the campground.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Riverview RV Park provides complete services. "Roads and Pads were perfectly paved and level. Safe atmosphere with gated access," comments Nick & Allyssa S. about this pet-friendly option near Lake Texoma.
Site spacing: RV sites vary in proximity to neighbors. "There were a lot of families and about 50/50 RVs and tents, although most of the tents were in a separate area further down the peninsula," Brian B. explains about Lake Texoma State Park campgrounds.
Connectivity concerns: Cell service and internet access vary by location. "Great wifi as well," mentions Amie M. about Eisenhower State Park, while others report spotty coverage in more remote areas around the lake.
Leveling requirements: Not all sites provide level surfaces. "Our site was right on the lake. Luckily no one was in the site next to us, so we enjoyed a gentle slope down to the water," Kate S. reports about Lake Texoma State Park, noting the need to adjust for uneven terrain.
