Ray Roberts Lake State Park offers two distinct camping areas with equestrian facilities located approximately 30-40 minutes from Corinth, Texas. The park covers over 29,000 acres with a 29,350-acre reservoir and has elevation ranging from 632 to 672 feet. Winter temperatures typically range from 36°F to 59°F while summer temperatures range from 73°F to 96°F with high humidity.
What to do
Trail riding with private access: At Ray Roberts Lake State Park - Isle du Bois, equestrian campers can access dedicated trails directly from their sites. "I stayed at the Wild Plum (primitive) camping area with my son in early spring. The trail path to the campsites is further than indicated or implied on the website," notes Christopher L., who recommends site #117 for easy access to facilities.
Fishing from your campsite: Multiple spots at Pilot Knoll Park Campground allow direct water access. "We stayed in spot #5 right at the end of the cove. Calm water, large lot land area and clean, easy access to walk right into the lake to swim, and space to dock your boat make the cove side of the park an excellent score," shares Monica C.
Hiking through diverse terrain: The LBJ National Grasslands offers several trail systems connecting primitive campsites. "We love this place! It's free and close to DFW. There's cattle roaming around and a lot of stocked ponds to fish in and some hiking through the different areas," states Kristi B. who appreciates the proximity to Dallas-Fort Worth while still feeling remote.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Johnson Branch Campsites, the layout creates natural separation. "The sites are so well manicured and they're cut in a way that gives you privacy. The sites are fairly close together but the grass makes it feel like you have your own little oasis," explains Joyce L.
Amenities for horse owners: The horse camping facilities include water troughs and hitching posts. For primitive equestrian camping options near Corinth, Black Creek Lake offers basic amenities. "Small RV park on the lake, quiet and shaded," reports Alice R., noting the campground offers a peaceful setting with natural shade.
Proximity to Dallas-Fort Worth: Cedar Hill State Park provides equestrian-friendly camping within an hour of Corinth. "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," shares Tony C.
What you should know
Seasonal water conditions: Water levels at Ray Roberts Lake fluctuate seasonally, affecting camping access. "We went last weekend, water is high, some areas for RV flooded out. Great place to go," reports Augustin T., suggesting campers check conditions before arrival.
Weekend crowds: Popular equestrian camping areas near Corinth see significant traffic Friday through Sunday. "I've been coming to this state park for over 20 years. It's very well kept, you see deer every trip, it's just very very busy. We used to come out and there would be just a few families, now it's very very busy," advises Kerry C.
Primitive site access: LBJ National Grasslands offers remote equestrian camping with minimal facilities. "Be sure to use your GPS because you'll want to drop a pin when you find a spot so you can find it again. There are absolutely no facilities so pack out what you pack in and clean up after yourself," recommends Kristi B.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near play areas: Loyd Park offers family-friendly equestrian camping with convenient amenities. "This park is run by the City Grand Prairie, which provides a lot of safety. Campsites are a little close together nearest the water but probably the best sites in the Park. We spent three days there swimming and hiking around," recommends Myc C.
Consider walk-in distance: Some primitive sites require significant hiking with gear. "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," warns Christopher L. about Isle du Bois.
Look for open spaces: Pilot Knoll Park Campground provides room for children to play safely. "We brought our small family of four out to tent camp for the first time this last weekend. I really enjoyed how well kept the grounds were and did love the open space between sites and the water, giving lots of space for the kids to play," reports Joshua M.
Tips from RVers
Check site length and access: East Fork Park accommodates various RV sizes but requires careful navigation. "Big level RV sites with grills and covered tables. You'll enjoy this park," notes Chris P., though others mention potential issues with the roads.
Consider spacing between RV sites: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of privacy for RVs. "The sites vary from being 20 feet from the parking lot to half a mile out or so, but most people flock to the more formal campsites and miss out thinking they'll have to hike in at Hawthorne," advises Gretchen N. about Isle du Bois.
Reserve early for equestrian sites: RV sites with horse corrals book quickly, especially during spring and fall. "Lots of good tent sites both on the water or a short hike to it," notes Dustin P. about Isle du Bois, which applies to their equestrian camping areas as well.
