Ray Roberts Lake State Park offers two main camping units - Isle du Bois and Johnson Branch - with distinct amenities serving different needs. The units sit on opposite sides of the lake, approximately 10-15 miles apart, providing varied camping environments. Both areas maintain well-marked trails extending through oak and juniper forest with terrain featuring gentle hills and sandy soil typical of north central Texas.
What to do
Fishing from shore: At Isle du Bois Campsites, sites 119-122 are positioned right on the lake for convenient bank fishing. "Sites are far enough away that you have to shout at your neighbors, so feel free to stretch out and be yourself without worrying about being too noisy," notes Christopher L.
Swimming at designated beaches: The swimming area at Isle du Bois features clean sand and roped-off sections for safety. "There's also a great little park near the boat ramp area. You can swim there, use pavilions for a large group, or fish out on a pier," according to Christopher L.
Hiking through grasslands: LBJ National Grasslands provides multiple trail options with stocked fishing ponds along routes. "There's cattle roaming around and a lot of stocked ponds to fish in and some hiking through the different areas. Very peaceful and still close to the city if you forget anything," reports Kristi B.
What campers like
Primitive camping options: The Hawthorne area at Isle du Bois offers more secluded sites. "We have done a lot of Primitive camping here that requires only a half mile walk from the parking lot. The primitive sites in the Hawthorne campgrounds are spaced a good distance apart and really give you a feel of isolation," says Matt S.
Lakefront access: Johnson Branch Campsites offers waterfront sites with direct water views. "The site I stayed at wasn't on the edge by the lake, but I was okay with that. I still had a great view of the water and sunset," shares Joyce L., who adds the sites "are 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."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campers report regular deer sightings at both Isle du Bois and Johnson Branch. "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," notes Tony C.
What you should know
Campsite preparation: For sites at Tadra Point Trailhead & Campground, water access can be limited. "There is no drinking water here so you will need to bring some in," explains Mesha P., adding that the water troughs for horses "looked pretty disgusting. May want to think about bringing several gallons of water."
Weekend popularity: Ray Roberts Lake parks become crowded during peak times. "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 busy. We used to come out and there would be just a few families, now it's very very busy," advises Kerry C.
Walk-in distance: Some primitive sites require longer walks from parking areas. "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.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: East Fork Park Campground provides play areas for children. "There is a nice swim area and overall the campground was clean and quiet. There weren't a whole lot of trees and none over the RV pads, so keep that in mind as far as the sun beating down on the camper," advises Christina H.
Best play structures: Ray Roberts Lake State Park has multiple playground options. "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," says Matt S.
Primitive camp considerations: When selecting horse campgrounds near Denton, Texas with kids, consider site location. "If you're picking a site in this camp area, #117 is right off the trail and nearest to the community restrooms... Sites 119-122 are right on the lake so you can see ducks and do some bank fishing without needing to go anywhere," recommends Christopher L.
Tips from RVers
Site selections: At Pilot Knoll Park Campground, RV sites have excellent lake access. "Lots of large back in spots with 50/30 amp plugs, water hook ups, fire pit and picnic table. Many spots have direct access to the lake to launch a kayak or SUP, boat launch in the day use area," notes Michael H.
Privacy considerations: For equestrian camping near Denton with RVs, consider site placement. "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," recommends Monica C.
Weather preparation: Winter camping remains viable at many sites. "Tested out our new camper for the first time - loved this campground, even in the winter! Front office has an extensive selection of grocery goods, supplies, firewood, etc.," reports David G., who enjoyed waterfront views at Loyd Park.
