Ray Roberts Lake State Park offers excellent fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities near Aubrey, Texas. The lake spans over 29,000 acres with multiple camping units including Isle du Bois and Johnson Branch. Winter temperatures average between 35-60°F while summer temperatures commonly reach 95-100°F. Campsites at most parks require reservations and many fill quickly during holiday weekends.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Lake Lewisville provides multiple swimming and boating options. At Hickory Creek, there's a small sandy beach area for swimming. "The lake was warm and there was a little 'beach' for swimming- I would recommend water shoes and floaties," notes one visitor.
Wildlife watching: The parks around Aubrey attract diverse wildlife. At Johnson Branch, trails wind through wooded areas where you can spot deer and waterfowl. One camper described her experience: "We learned what native plants we can eat!"
Hiking trails: Multiple trail networks connect through the area's parks. The primitive nature trails at Lake Lewisville are perfect for collecting firewood. "There is a couple mile walking trail starting at the campground that is paved," mentions one camper about Lake Park Campground.
Fishing spots: Bank fishing is accessible from multiple campsites. Many sites at Johnson Branch have water access with small coves that "look like they would be great fishing spots," according to one visitor.
What campers like
Space between sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at Willow Grove Park. As one reviewer notes, "Beautiful place and a lot of space between sites." The campground offers both wooded and lakefront options.
Clean facilities: The parks maintain their amenities well. At Isle du Bois, "Restrooms were clean. Campsites, large and private," according to a December visitor. This makes off-season camping comfortable.
Natural settings: Despite proximity to urban areas, the parks maintain natural environments. Johnson Branch has "great camp sites with lots of trees. Fall is wonderful," mentions one frequent visitor who compares both Ray Roberts units.
Lakefront views: Many sites offer direct water access. One camper at Hickory Creek described their experience: "A lot of space between sites, well level and paved, family oriented, very quite, beautiful lake and tree sites."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer storms can be intense. At Willow Grove, one camper reported: "Got hit by two really bad lightning and thunderstorms and had to sit in my car for a while during the worst of it (certain parts had tornados and hail)."
Noise factors: Despite natural settings, some parks experience noise pollution. At Hickory Creek, "The only downside is the overall air traffic that you hear and see over the park from the Dallas-Fort Worth airport."
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. For Pilot Knoll Park, a regular visitor advises: "It can be difficult to get a reservation but it is so conveniently located basically in the middle of the Metroplex."
Walk-in distances: At Johnson Branch, prepare for longer walks to some sites. "Most campsites have a lengthy walk-in distance so be prepared! Bring a cart; it'll speed things up massively," recommends one visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play areas within walking distance of campsites. At Hidden Cove Park, "There are several playground areas central to the various campgrounds with easy access for your family."
Swimming options: Ray Roberts Lake has designated swimming areas. At Isle du Bois, "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."
Kid-friendly sites: Choose sites strategically for family convenience. One family at Hickory Creek shared: "We hopped over for a one night trip and had a blast! Our site was right off the water with a fun view (at night) of the lake Lewisville bridge. Our 5 & 4 year old boys loved running around, throwing rocks in the lake."
Wildlife encounters: Many children enjoy the animal sightings. At Johnson Branch, ranger programs sometimes include edible plant identification that kids find fascinating.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Check the placement of utility connections before setting up. At Lake Park Campground, "Connections for water and electric aren't in best spots but able to reach. They offer extension cords."
Site surface types: Different parks offer varying pad materials. At Shady Creek RV Park, "The pads are gravel and almost level. A few guests have been here a while, did see several arrivals and departures."
Water pressure issues: Monitor incoming water pressure at some parks. At Pilot Knoll, one RVer found "the water pressure too strong for my class b as the pressure caused a link under my sink. Convinced me to purchase my own water pressure resistor gauge."
Dump station access: Not all parks have sewer hookups at individual sites. At Hickory Creek, one camper noted the "dump station is near the middle school outside the park so had to drive our tote 1/4-1/2 mile up the street with a decent amount of traffic."
