Camping in Caddo National Grassland spans approximately 17,000 acres of blackland prairie and post oak woodland at an elevation ranging from 500-700 feet. The area receives about 40 inches of rainfall annually, creating periodic flash flooding conditions in low-lying campsites during spring storms. Fall camping offers temperatures between 55-75°F with lower humidity, making it ideal for exploring the diverse ecosystems.
What to Do
Mountain biking on maintained trails: Erwin Park offers approximately 9 miles of trails maintained by DORBA (Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association). "The trail network is about 9 miles and maintained by DORBA, these trails flood easily after rain so check the DORBA website before making the trip. The trails are straight forward and not super technical," notes James from Erwin Park.
Hiking with wildlife viewing: Ray Roberts Lake State Park provides multiple trail options through wooded areas. "A very nice state park, about an hour northwest of Dallas. Lots of hiking and biking trails, with clean restrooms! Deer will approach your campsite and you're likely to see all kinds of wildlife," according to Tony C. at Isle du Bois Campsites.
Lake swimming at designated beaches: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas with varying amenities. "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," shares Matt S. about Isle du Bois.
What Campers Like
Private campsites with lake views: Many sites offer separation from neighbors with water access. "The sites are a little close for our style if you are staying for extended times. Gravel spots and roads but level. A little bit of grass for the pups," reports Bill B. at Lazy L RV Park.
Clean facilities year-round: While facility quality varies by location, some parks maintain high standards. "The bathrooms had not been cleaned and the recent users had left a bit of a mess. The bathrooms did have all the supplies we needed and we always welcome flush toilets and hot and cold running water," mentions Deborah C. at Paradise on Lake Texoma.
Fall and winter camping conditions: Off-season camping provides a more secluded experience. "There are few campers here in December. Restrooms were clean. Campsites, large and private," reports Eric R. from Isle du Bois.
What You Should Know
Trail conditions vary with weather: Rain significantly impacts accessibility of trails and campsites. "We went last weekend, water is high, some areas for RV flooded out. Great place to go," shares Augustin T. about Isle du Bois.
Distance to water access points: Some campgrounds require significant walking to reach swimming or fishing areas. "One big issue with this park is the distance to the actual lake itself. You will need a cart or be ready for a hike to the beach area as it is quite a ways from the campground," explains Robert M. at Thousand Trails Lake Texoma.
Site selection impacts experience: Research specific site numbers before booking. "If you're picking a site in this camp area, #117 is right off the trail and nearest to the community restrooms. I did not stay at this spot but did note that it has a great natural spot for a hammock. Sites 119-122 (maybe 123) are right on the lake so you can see ducks and do some bank fishing without needing to go anywhere," advises Christopher L. about Isle du Bois.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for parks with playground facilities: Several campgrounds have dedicated play areas for children. "There are several playground areas central to the various campgrounds with easy access for your family. Showers and restrooms are close by the playgrounds as well," notes Matt S. about Isle du Bois.
Prepare for water hazards: Lakes require proper safety equipment and supervision. "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," warns K7 from Isle du Bois.
Consider primitive camping walk distances: When tent camping with children, note the walking distance from parking. "The trail path to the campsites is further than indicated or implied on the website, which isn't a problem if you're packed light, but if you're car camping with heavy equipment you will be surprised how far it is," shares Christopher L. about primitive camping at Johnson Branch Campsites.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup distances at sites: Water connections may require extra equipment. "Starting with just making the reservation. By far the easiest process for booking a site we have ever experienced. The website is well organized and very descriptive when explaining the amenities of each site. For RV site, some require at least a 50' hose for water. Others are closer to the water," reports Taylor V. at Paradise on Lake Texoma.
Verify electrical pedestal condition: Some campgrounds have maintenance issues with power hookups. "The first spot I chose had a bad pedestal, so I had to pick up and choose another spot. I would definitely recommend checking the pedestal before unpacking. There were a ton of spots closed off because of the bad pedestals," warns Emerson F. about Thousand Trails Lake Texoma.
Interior road quality varies: Many campgrounds have rough access roads. "The roads in many of these TT campground in the loop around Dallas do need attention so take your time going through them," cautions Robert M. about Thousand Trails Lake Texoma.
