Lake Belton and surrounding areas offer multiple camping options for horseback riders within 25-30 miles of Belton, Texas. The region features mixed terrain with prairie flatlands and modest elevation changes, creating varied trail experiences. Several parks maintain equestrian-friendly facilities that accommodate both overnight camping and day-use trail riding throughout the year.
What to do
Equestrian trail riding: Reynolds Creek Park provides access to a 20-mile equestrian trail around Lacey Point with relatively flat terrain. "There is a nice little 1 mile hike were you can bird watch and view the lake Waco, it is very shaded and flat. Then there is a 20 mile hike/equestrian trail that goes around Lacey point," notes reviewer Brittany S. at Reynolds Creek.
Fishing: Speegleville Park offers direct lake access for anglers. "Lake Waco may not be the cleanest or prettiest lake, but when it comes to fishing, you can bring in a good amount of catfish and have a fish-fry to make up for it! I love the peacefulness of Speegleville park," shares Brittany S. at Speegleville Park.
Wildlife viewing: Some camping areas near Belton include wildlife observation opportunities. "The drive through safari is an extra $15 per car and worth it," reports Chris P. about Buena Vista Wildlife Safari and RV Park, which combines camping with animal encounters.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Live Oak Ridge on Belton Lake offers ample room for setting up portable corrals. "The campsites are well maintained with asphalt parking, a covered picnic table, and nice gravel area. We stayed in Site 3 which was waterfront, but no water access, however was shaded and spacious," writes Lisa H. at Live Oak Ridge.
Quiet atmosphere: Several camping areas provide peaceful settings away from urban noise. "We stayed on a spot right by the lake. The water was beautiful and it was very quiet. We loved everything about this spot," says Lauren Z. about her experience at Speegleville Park.
Natural surroundings: Willis Creek Park offers lakeside camping with natural features. "Very peaceful, clean, spots are pretty spread out with covered picnic tables, fire pit and grill. Site 4 looked the best but 13 was beautiful. Can't get to the water from sites, but the views were amazing and the walk short!" reports Leslie at Willis Creek.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds require advance bookings. "The gates are still open but overwhelming with skeeters everywhere. All sites were overgrown with tall grass/weeds," notes kelly T. about Willis Creek during off-peak times.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat affects both riders and horses in central Texas. "Just be aware there isn't a lot of shade around the sites and in the summer it gets really toasty!" warns a reviewer about Speegleville Park.
Facility limitations: Some campgrounds lack equine-specific amenities. At Heart of Texas Fair Complex, facilities primarily serve event participants: "These grounds are just for those participating in events at the center. Lots of equestrian and ag show events," explains Josie J.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer recreation areas for children. "A better-than-typical playground is set in a great interior place for all to enjoy," mentions Cheryl D. about Live Oak Ridge.
Swimming options: Not all lakeside campgrounds have swimming areas. "I only gave it 4 stars because there is no swimming area. There is a boat launch," notes Lisa H. about Live Oak Ridge limitations.
Nature trails: Look for parks with shorter trails suitable for family walks. "There are nature trails across the main road and access to Belton and their small but awesome riverwalk area, historic Salado, Still Hollow Lake, the Belton dam (we could see the mural from both sites), Chalk Ridge Waterfalls and Temple, TX within a few minutes," shares Cheryl D. at Williamson County Berry Springs Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites carefully for shade and utility access. "Sites that we really like with lots of shade 40, 41. Booked 41 for early October," recommends Dean H. about Live Oak Ridge.
Water access challenges: Lake visibility often requires navigating terrain. "High banks made it impossible to get to the water. No swimming area or fishing area that we found," reports Shane M. about Reynolds Creek.
Connectivity concerns: Cell service varies significantly between properties. "Not much for any type of cell service, ESPECIALLY AT&T," cautions Kayla D. about camping at Buena Vista Wildlife Safari and RV Park.
