Equestrian camping options extend beyond the well-known Ray Roberts Lake State Park near Allen, Texas. The area features multiple destinations with varied terrain suitable for riders within a 30-60 minute drive. Several parks maintain trail systems ranging from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging routes with elevation changes and water crossings.
What to do
Trail riding at Johnson Branch: The northeastern section of Ray Roberts Lake offers alternative equestrian trails. "Great state park, not near as busy as Isle Du Bois. Both of these campgrounds at Luke Ray Roberts are very well kept. The beach area at Johnson Branch is not as nice as Isle Du Bois, but everything else is very similar," notes Kerry C. about Johnson Branch Campsites.
Water activities during hot months: Lake access provides cooling options during summer trips. "Nice place and a beautiful scenic drive. Good place to hike and swim, sites are decent and give a fair amount of space in between. Bring shoes though! Lots of little prickers in the grass down by the lake," advises K7 about Isle du Bois Campsites.
Primitive camping with lake views: For those seeking more remote camping with horses, primitive sites offer advantages. "The primitive sites in the Hawthorne campgrounds are spaced a good distance apart and really give you a feel of isolation. Sites on the perimeter all have lake access where you can pull a boat up," explains Matt S. about his experience at Isle du Bois.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campgrounds with buffer zones between sites rank highly. "There is plenty of space between sites, but no trees so not a lot of privacy. Probably wouldn't stay again," comments Mia D. about East Fork Park Campground, highlighting the importance of site spacing for many horse campers.
Lake proximity: Direct lake access adds value for multi-activity trips. "This just may become our home away from home. I absolutely love this little park. We stayed in spot#5 right at the end of the cove. Calm water, large lot land area and clean, easy access to walk right into the lake to swim, and space to dock your boat make the cove side of the park an excellent score," shares Monica C. about Pilot Knoll Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Horse campers appreciate natural settings with wildlife. "Deer will approach your campsite and you're likely to see all kinds of wildlife. A gem of a getaway!" notes Tony C. about his experience at Isle du Bois.
What you should know
Grass maintenance issues: Several campgrounds struggle with consistent grounds upkeep. "Great campground, electric and water. Only issue is the grass is always one high so bring a weed whip. We have family in the area, so we visit regularly and every time we stay here the grass is ridiculous otherwise I would give a 5 star!" warns Suzann E. about East Fork Park Campground.
Seasonal rainfall effects: Weather impacts trail conditions significantly. "It looks like there could be a lot of water pooled on and behind our site with a heavy rain. The pad has definitely broken up over time and isn't level," reports Melanie and Doug G. about their experience at East Fork Park.
Reservation competition: "Best park to visit in the Metroplex area! A dozen trips, and it's still a favorite. If you want to avoid crowds, stay in the Hawthorne 'primitive' area," recommends Gretchen N., highlighting the popularity of these destinations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Some sites offer easy access to play areas. "The other nice thing from our site, was that we were about 1/4 mile from a little playground for the kids. The playground wasn't anything grand, but it broke up the days for the kids some, which as all parents know is a gift," shares Chris H. about Johnson Branch.
Beach swimming areas: Designated swimming spots provide safer water access. "There is also a fantastic beach swim area for day use or to visit while your camping. Nice sand and roped off swimming areas with large playgrounds," explains Matt S. about Isle du Bois.
Bring insect protection: Some areas have persistent bug issues. "Fire ants and chiggers all over! But the lake was nice," warns Jill C. about her experience at Cedar Hill State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RVers note unlevel sites at several parks. "RV sites have water and 50/30 amp electric and there are 12 tent sites. We had a nice view of Lake Lavon. Grills and tables vary by site, some are very old, but many have been replaced. The sites are well spaced and are 'mostly' paved with aging asphalt," explains Ray & Terri F. about East Fork Park Campground.
Full hookup options: "It feels like a state park, but run by the city. All sites are back in and allow for tent campers. Some sites are 50 amp, while all are for 30 amp. Larger rigs are more accommodated next to the lake. But call ahead to see which sites have 50 amp, you'll need it in summer time," advises John B. about Loyd Park.
Limited shade in summer: "There weren't a whole lot of trees and none over the RV pads, so keep that in mind as far as the sun beating down on the camper," notes Christina H. about her experience at East Fork Park, highlighting the importance of planning for heat management.
