Daingerfield State Park Campground offers equestrian camping options approximately 80 miles from Easton, Texas. The campground sits among towering pine trees surrounding an 80-acre lake at an elevation of 402 feet. Winter temperatures average 35-60°F, while summer months typically reach 75-95°F, making spring and fall ideal seasons for horse camping in this region.
What to do
Paddle the lake: Visitors to Daingerfield State Park can rent canoes and paddle boats to explore the park's centerpiece lake. "We enjoyed hiking, biking and even an ice cream from the park store," notes camper P., who visited in spring when blooms were abundant throughout the park.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning hours offer prime opportunities for bird watching along the trails. "Was woken up a couple of times throughout the night by a Great Horned Owl, but no complaints," shares Hannah B., adding that the park provides "great habitat" for wildlife observation.
Enjoy water recreation: The park features a designated swimming area for cooling off during warmer months. "Gorgeous lake for our boys to practice canoeing and kayaking skills. Nice looking swimming area," reports MORRIS O., noting the well-maintained lakeside facilities.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The park maintains exceptionally clean restrooms and shower facilities. "Pristine clean restroom/showerhouse. Seemed recently renovated," notes Napunani, who stayed in the Big Pine camping area, which offers full hookup sites with views of the lake.
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution in certain areas of the park creates ideal conditions for stargazing. "Good night sky viewing in BIG PINE," reports a camper who appreciated the security gate that closes overnight while still allowing for dark sky conditions.
Fall colors: The park's hardwood and pine mix creates scenic seasonal displays. "I got there after dark and left around 9am so I wasn't able to enjoy the park but it was beautiful with all the fall colors," writes Briana, who stayed at site 51 in the Cedar Ridge area.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular sites at equestrian campgrounds near Easton fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. One camper reports reserving 152 days prior to arrival to secure their desired site at Daingerfield State Park.
Site selection matters: Not all sites accommodate larger vehicles or horse trailers. "Most FHU sites (other than BIG PINE) are extremely short in length. Barely room for single axle TT, so need to review site details carefully," advises a camper who noted the significant differences between camping areas.
Potential noise issues: While generally peaceful, some external sounds may affect noise-sensitive horses. "Very quiet campground except for highway and train noise," mentions a visitor, information worth considering when selecting sites for equine companions.
Tips for camping with families
Beach and swimming options: The park offers designated swimming areas suitable for various ages. "Huge swimming beach," notes Amie M., who found the park "gorgeous" even during winter months when fewer amenities were available.
Trail difficulty considerations: Most trails are suitable for family hiking and riding. "Nice hiking trials. Privacy if that's your thing, it is for us and our three dogs. However, there is an awesome pavilion, swim dock, picnic area and paddle boat area. Something for everyone," shares Anne P. who enjoyed both the trail system and recreational facilities.
Seasonal planning: Consider visiting during spring for optimal conditions. "We came here first week of April 2021. Spring in the air, blooms all around," recounts a visitor who found the park lively yet peaceful during this season.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites feature concrete pads but may still present challenges. "Asphalt parking pad heaved various places due to tree roots creating numerous tripping hazard," reports a camper who otherwise found the Big Pine area excellent for lake views and privacy from side neighbors.
Hook-up availability: Several camping areas offer full hook-up sites, but with important differences. "Big Pine, Dogwood and Mountain View Campgrounds FHU so 40 FHU sites with no park dump station," notes a camper who appreciated that no side-to-side leveling was required at their site.
Site spacing considerations: At The Boulders at Lake Tyler, another option for those seeking equestrian-friendly facilities near Easton, visitors note the site arrangement. "Although the sites were close together, they all had concrete pads, full hookups, were level, and had picnic tables," writes kathy H., who appreciated the waterfront views despite the proximity to neighboring campers.
