Wright Patman Lake dominates the camping landscape near Atlanta, Texas, with several Corps of Engineers campgrounds dotting its shoreline. The region's pine forests provide natural shade with elevations ranging from 220 to 325 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing between December and February.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Atlanta State Park Campground offers direct lake access for anglers. "The major plus to this lake is that you can easily bring a boat with you when you're camping, because of the plentiful spaces at campsites and boat ramp access," notes Justin D., who adds that "Wright Patman Lake is a decent lake, but does have a fair amount of stumps along the edges- watch for the bouyees."
Water activities: Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking are popular at Rocky Point campground. One visitor shared, "SUP / kayaking, fishing, boating, biking and new friends abundant here." The campground features a swim beach, volleyball net, and boat dock, making it a water recreation hub.
Hiking options: The nature trails at Atlanta State Park offer varying difficulty levels. "Trails are beautiful and if you piece them together can be challenging," explains Amie M., adding "These are not wide, take the baby stroller kind of trails. The nature trail goes over a couple foot bridges and has a lot to see."
What campers like
Lake views: Waterfront sites at Clear Spring are particularly sought after. "We had a great 3 night stay here in c4. Close to the water and had good views," reports Natalie S. The lakefront sites in Loop B are especially desirable, with David W. noting, "Sites B 1 through B 14 are especially desirable. We had site B 6 which we rate excellent."
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds in the area offer wildlife viewing opportunities. Nancy C. from Rocky Point shares, "Pulling in, we were welcomed by a herd of 23 deer grazing in the common areas." These natural encounters add to the camping experience throughout the Wright Patman Lake area.
Spacious sites: Rocky Point(wright Patman Dam) offers well-designed campsites. "The sites are nicely sized, well-spaced apart and angled, providing nice privacy," according to Jan S., who appreciated the layout during a 12-day stay. Many campers specifically mention site spacing as a highlight.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many Corps of Engineers campgrounds require advance booking. At Clear Spring, one camper warns, "Remember to book in advance online! They won't let you in without an online reservation and cell coverage is minimal."
Seasonal considerations: Bug activity increases significantly during summer months. Jackie F. from Atlanta State Park advises, "I would recommend bringing a citronella candle there were a lot of bugs at night. It could have also been because we went in August."
Bathroom facilities: Restroom quality varies between campgrounds. At Piney Point, facilities are functional but basic. One camper notes, "Clean bathrooms and showers, friendly staff, but not a place to go if you want to get away from everyone and everything, and enjoy nature."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Texarkana RV Park & Event Center, families appreciate the amenities. One visitor notes, "They have a gated entrance for extra security. The park has nice amenities such as pool, playground, laundry, restrooms, dog run, and park-like setting with duck pond."
Beach conditions: Lake beaches may have variable conditions depending on recent rainfall. Amie M. cautions about Atlanta State Park: "The sand on the beach is bad. Due to flooding and earth slides the beach front is super deep mud. If there has been even a trickle of rain on the past week you will lose your shoes the mud is so thick."
Bug preparation: Insect repellent is essential, especially for evening activities. Jasmine R. advises, "I think this is a great park for families to get away, but not get lost. They have play grounds and clean bathrooms. I would prep for muddy feet and bugs galore!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Clear Spring, experienced RVers recommend waterfront sites despite limitations. "There are some sites (Loops D and E) that have full hookups including sewer, but the most desirable sites are in Loop B, some of which have direct views of the lake," explains David W.
Leveling considerations: RVers should prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. Steven V. describes his experience at Atlanta State Park: "Pads are fairly level, only took 1 2x12 in the one side, make sure to bring blocks for the rear stabilizers as the pad drops off at the back."
Budget options: For cost-conscious RVers, Jackson Creek Park offers free primitive camping. "Great place to camp if on a budget. And or just want to fish and sleep," reports one visitor, though Loren G. warns, "Access is via county road, and might be difficult with an rv. Most sites would be hard to get a big rv into. Most sites not level."
