Lake Brownwood State Park and Hords Creek Lake provide cabin accommodations 15-20 minutes from Bangs, Texas. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F and mild winters, making cabin camping a year-round option. Cabins range from rustic to modern with varying amenities and proximity to water.
What to do
Fishing access: Multiple options at Lake Brownwood State Park Campground where visitors can utilize "three floating piers with lights and one wooden fishing pier with lights," according to Larry D.
Kayaking and water sports: The lake at Brownwood offers excellent paddling conditions. Emily M. notes, "Sun finally came out on the last day enough for me to kayak. I was the only one out on the lake."
Bicycling: Several trails accommodate riders of varying skill levels. Mic R. reports, "We rode our bikes a lot there are 3 miles bicycles trail plus a hiking trail, and a few small trails around the park."
Hiking: The Lakeside Trail follows the shoreline and connects camping areas. "We hiked the Lakeside Trail and the lake was perfect for our kayaks!" shared Margot after staying at Lake Brownwood.
Explore CCC structures: Take time to visit the historic buildings. Sallie H. states it's a "hidden jewel" with "many wonderful pavilions and guest halls and guest houses for rent."
What campers like
Peaceful environment: Hords Creek Lake Lakeside Park provides tranquil settings away from crowds. Pam J. notes, "The peace & quiet that we've experienced in this park is beyond words. Relaxation at its best!"
Spacious, well-designed sites: Campsites feature generous spacing and amenities. "Very big well spaced lakeside sites," reports R B. about Hords Creek Lake.
Clean facilities: Maintained bathhouses with hot showers enhance comfort. "The public facilities (restrooms, showers, picnic areas) were clean and usable. Toilets flushed, TP was available, there was cold AND hot water," reports Larry D.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer opportunities to observe local fauna. Jessica M. from Lakeside mentions, "I love to watch the deer that roam around."
Screened shelters: Some sites include enclosed picnic areas. "A bonus for us that we did not know when we reserved is that several sites have screened-in shelters with electricity and a generous-sized concrete picnic table," notes Lee D.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Sites fill quickly during peak periods. R B. advises about Flatrock Park, "Wanted to add more days but the weekends book full. Plan ahead and book early."
Insect preparation: Bugs can be problematic during warmer months. Mark M. found Lake Brownwood "pretty buggy (gnats/flies--did not see mosquitos)."
Lake level fluctuations: Water levels vary seasonally affecting shoreline access. Brad P. notes about Hords Creek, "Very interesting place but not much to do unless you are able to use the lake."
Limited services: Supplies require driving to nearby towns. "There is a Walmart about a half hour away. Neat little town of Coleman about 10 minutes away has some good restaurants," according to Brad P.
Site conditions: Not all sites are level. Mark M. mentions "Site 69 not level (68 looked better)" at Lake Brownwood.
Tips for camping with families
Best family sites: Brady Lake City Park offers free waterfront options. Elizabeth P. notes the "beautiful sunset over lake, many sites available in April."
Playground access: Dedicated play areas for children exist at several locations. Lee D. observed "a nice, covered playground in the Lakeside Park campground."
Trail difficulty ratings: Select appropriate hiking paths for children. "There are tons of easy trails and shore access," Ashley S. reports about Lake Brownwood.
Weather preparation: Summer heat requires planning for hydration and shade. Larry D. advises, "Take plenty of water, insect repellent, and sunscreen with you if you decided to bike the Nopales Ridge Trail in the middle of June."
Swimming areas: Designated swimming zones provide safer water access for families. Jeff N. describes Hords Creek Lake as a "beautiful lake with a beach."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations based on shade and utilities needed at COE Hords Creek Lake Lakeside Park. Lori B. recommends "Site 76 is at the last site on the stretch right beside the dam with no thru traffic."
Full hookup availability: Not all sites offer complete utilities. Chris H. notes about Flatrock Park, "This would be 5 stars but there are very few full hookup spots with sewer."
Big rig access: Some areas accommodate larger vehicles. Kenneth M. describes Lakeside as a "great COE CG. Park is beautiful and reasonably priced. Sites are great!"
Seasonal considerations: Summer weekends require advance planning. Troy W. mentions about Lake Brownwood, "I visited the park during a weekday when the park had few visitors. However, I've heard that on the weekend the park fills up quickly and can be quite busy."
Wind exposure: Some camping areas lack windbreaks. Brad P. cautions about Hords Creek, "Very spacious campsites. Wide open so if it's windy you will feel it."
