Dispersed camping near Pottsboro, Texas centers around Lake Texoma, a 89,000-acre reservoir straddling the Texas-Oklahoma border. Most camping areas sit 50-100 feet above the water line, requiring access via sloped paths. Summer temperatures routinely exceed 95°F between June and August, while spring camping offers more moderate conditions with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing from shore: At Preston Bend - Lake Texoma, anglers can fish directly from the peninsula that juts into the water. "Peninsula juts out into water with lovely views of sunrise & sunset. Small campground with clean and nice but simple facilities," notes Harry H.
Hiking equestrian trails: The Lakeside area connects to Platter Flats via a well-marked trail system. "There is a long equestrian trail that goes over to Lakeside Park across the lake that can also be hiked pretty easily that has a couple secluded spots to swim along the way. The trail is well marked and easy to follow," according to B H.
Birding excursions: The Lake Texoma region attracts diverse bird species, especially during migration seasons. "Came here for birding in nearby wildlife refuges and wasn't disappointed," reports a visitor to Preston Bend.
Boating and water sports: Burns Run West provides excellent water access for boaters. "The beaches were clean and had legit beach sand, which was very nice!" Christina H. comments about the shoreline facilities.
What campers like
Level concrete pads: Many sites at Lakeside (OK) feature paved pads that simplify setup. "Sites are asphault and generally spaced apart so you are not right on top of each other," notes RICK V.
Scenic waterfront locations: The waterfront sites offer prime lake views. "Our waterfront spot had a beautiful view & the sound of the fish jumping all around with the birds was quite serene!" shares Amy C. about Walnut Creek Resort.
Privacy between sites: Burns Run West offers good site separation in certain areas. "We had such a great time while camping here. The sites were a good size and had lots of shade. We had an amazing view of the lake!" according to Christina H.
Shaded camping areas: Trees provide crucial relief from summer heat at select campgrounds. "Wooded sites are perfect for a hammock. Lots of choices, many close to water and some right next to docks/launches," describes Harry H. about the Eisenhower State Park area.
What you should know
Ant problems: Several campgrounds report persistent ant issues. "If you camp here, though, be fully prepared to battle tons of ants. This might have been my favorite campground if it weren't for the ants," warns Holly N. about Preston Bend.
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Some camping areas have minimal facilities. "Our site was right on the lake. It didn't have a sewer hookup, which was kind of disappointing but we made it work," notes Richard about Lake Texoma State Park.
Steep access to swimming areas: Reaching water often requires navigating slopes. "The swim area in this park is down a pretty steep gravel trail that I had a hard time navegating. There is very limited bank access since the park sits about 50 feet up from the water line," explains a reviewer about Eisenhower State Park.
Weekend crowds: Expect higher visitor numbers Friday through Sunday. "I would not recommend visiting this park on a weekend unless traffic doesn't bother you," advises B H. about Platter Flats Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for beach areas: Platter Flats offers family-friendly shore access. "Half of the campground is an equestrian camp. There are great hiking trails and beautiful views. Good shady spots. We had two kids with us and we loved walking around the campground and seeing all the horses!" shares Rachael H.
Check playground availability: Some campgrounds include play equipment for children. "There are pit toilets in the equestrian area and only 1 flush toilet for men located in the 'regular' area until the new ones come up in the equestrian area," notes B H., highlighting facility limitations at Platter Flats.
Research bathroom facilities: Restroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "Bathrooms could use an update but that's par for the course in Oklahoma," mentions Richard about Lake Texoma State Park.
Consider noise factors: Train tracks near some campgrounds create occasional disturbances. "It should be noted there is a rail freight line and siding not far from the camp and once the vehicle traffic slows down, the trains seem to start," warns B H.
Tips from RVers
Book premium sites early: The best RV spots fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "The premium sites at Thousand Trails Lake Texoma have full hookup sites with electric, water, and sewer connections," reports a visitor who found good connections.
Check electrical service capacity: Some campgrounds offer both 30-amp and 50-amp service. "Most rv sites are 30 amp. Section B is 50 amp. Sites are water and electric, no sewer sites. There are 2 dump sites on the way out," explains RICK V. about Lakeside Campground.
Bring leveling equipment: Not all sites are perfectly level. "The one thing I didn't care for was the levelness of our spot, it was a little touch & go with my mother & her walker," notes Amy C. about her glamping experience at Walnut Creek Resort.
Verify site length: RV sites vary in size across glamping locations near Pottsboro. "We had site 9, which is the same site we had when we were there last year. The site is short and narrow and kitty-corner to the sites to each side but it was gravel pad, level and had FHU with 30/50 amp," explains Jan S.
