Equestrian camping near Albany, Texas offers horseback enthusiasts scenic trail riding through diverse terrain in the Palo Pinto Mountains region. Most horseback camping areas range in elevation from 900 to 1,400 feet, creating varied trails across limestone formations and native grasslands. Winter temperatures average 50-60°F during daytime, making it an ideal season for extended trail rides when summer heat subsides.
What to do
Kayaking on Possum Kingdom Lake: Possum Kingdom State Park provides rentals directly from their dock for visitors without equipment. According to Michelle M., "This is one of my favorite parks to kayak or canoe at! You can rent them right there at the dock. You can rent jet skis, as well!"
Nighttime nature programs: The park staff organizes educational evening activities during peak seasons. Jim P. noted, "There was a Scorpion hunt our first night - where they meet and use a black light to seek out the little monsters... a cool activity."
Birdwatching opportunities: The lake areas attract numerous waterfowl species including Canadian geese. As Jim P. describes, "The Canadian Geese were a true gem for me - something nice about waking up to hear them in the morning. Besides, they are absolutely gorgeous."
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Possum Kingdom State Park Campground offers lake-adjacent camping without overcrowding. Jenny W. reports, "Right on the water and the campgrounds are spaced out enough that you are not right on top of each other."
Well-maintained trails: The hiking paths are suitable for various skill levels and provide lake vistas. Jim P. shares, "Trails are well maintained and very nice, we mostly did the Lakeview Trail, but it was a great hike, not too strenuous but with great views of the lake."
Convenient on-site store: Campers appreciate access to basic supplies without leaving the park. According to Jenny W., "There is a convenience store on site that has most anything you need."
What you should know
Campsite selection matters: Some sites may have limitations based on the equipment you bring. Robin B. warns, "If you want to really camp, and not in a 50 footer, this is not a place to do it. Maybe the sites behind the lake would be better."
Seasonal conditions affect trail access: Summer temperatures can limit riding time on exposed trails. Garrett B. notes, "Summer I was alil weary of the sunny areas because of the overgrowth of vegetation on the trail for the worry of a rattlesnake encounter."
Water access varies by site: 36 W Motel and RV Campground offers sites directly on the water. Don M. describes, "Stayed one Tuesday night in site 483, Big Pine Area 7, which is right on the lake. There was no light (except for the full Moon), no sound (except for those made by Nature)."
Tips for camping with families
Try primitive sites for more seclusion: Areas away from the main campground provide quieter alternatives. Jennifer J. shares, "If you like primitive, tent sites, cabins, or RV sites, there are plenty of options."
Bring your own recreational equipment: While rentals are available, having personal watercraft enhances flexibility. Stephanie T. notes, "Decided we didn't feel like kayaking with such a big crowd. Lots of amenities and places to buy stuff."
Plan for basic facilities: The bathhouses provide essential amenities without luxury features. Jenny W. explains, "There is a Men's and Women's bathrooms with two shower stalls (in the women's at least) - but no family bathroom setup. Everything was pretty basic, as you would expect at a state park."
Tips from RVers
Site width challenges: Some RV pads have limited space for larger rigs and tow vehicles. Jim P. cautions, "Only complaint is the width of the campsite. I don't know that all were as narrow as ours, but site 20 is a really tight squeeze. Went off the side a couple of times trying to get in."
Overflow parking may be necessary: Plan for potential space limitations at individual sites. According to Jim P., "With that narrow width, I was forced to park in overflow parking because with the length of my rig I wasn't able to fit both truck and trailer on concrete and remain out of the road."
Check site conditions before setup: Some campsites may have deteriorated pads or unusual terrain features. Robin B. mentions, "Pads are broken up almost to the point of dangerous. Walked around in flip flops and had tar balls attach to my feet."
