Camping spots near Fate, Texas offer several unique options for outdoor recreation, primarily focused around Lake Lavon and nearby waterways. The area sits at approximately 561 feet above sea level with gently rolling terrain typical of northeastern Texas. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, making water-based activities particularly appealing from June through September.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Tawakoni State Park, located approximately 30 miles east of Fate, is known for outstanding catfish fishing. "This lake is well known for its Catfish Fisheries all around the lake which in turn causes the lake to produce very large Catfish. Upwards of 70lbs," notes a visitor to Lake Tawakoni State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds maintain walking paths suitable for various skill levels. "This state park has both walking and biking trails galore. None of the trails were too hard for a seven and nine year old but were long enough that they were fun and a good workout," shares a camper about Lake Tawakoni State Park.
Bird watching: Fall and winter months bring migratory birds to the lake areas. "I went walking along the lake. Lots of birds on the beach and near the water shore. It was a nice relaxing stop during a 3 day road trip," reports a visitor at Clear Lake Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing between sites at Corps of Engineers properties. "The sites are well spaced and are 'mostly' paved with aging asphalt," notes a visitor to East Fork Park Campground. Another camper at COE Lavon Lake Lavonia mentions, "Wide open spaces and beautiful lake views. The sites are far apart and lots of green space."
Quality bathrooms: Despite varied facility maintenance, bathrooms receive positive mentions at several locations. "Each bathroom was a single occupant bathroom with a locking door. In the bathroom was a sink, a toilet, a hand dryer, and a shower with two nozzles at different heights. The appliances were stainless steel, and the bathrooms were clearly excellently maintained," shares a tent camper at COE Lavon Lake Lavonia.
Lake views: Waterfront access remains a primary draw across multiple campgrounds. "We had a nice view of Lake Lavon. Grills and tables vary by site, some are very old, but many have been replaced," comments a visitor to East Fork Park Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Several campgrounds report deteriorated roads within park boundaries. "We avoided any rough spots in the road and arrived at a LONG and roomie site with a beautiful view of the lake," explains a camper at East Fork Park Campground.
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules or seasonal hours. One camper at COE Lavon Lake Lavonia notes, "The front gates don't open til 10am every morning so can't get back in if you go get breakfast."
Site drainage: Low-lying areas can be problematic after rainfall. "It looks like there could be a lot of water pooled on and behind our site with a heavy rain," observes a visitor at East Fork Park Campground. Another mentions, "Have heard that the lower area does have pooling of water with heavy rain. It does go away quickly, but should be aware of this if you have lots of outside things or a pet."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom facilities: Look for campgrounds with individual bathroom units when traveling with small children. At Lake Tawakoni, "in the loop bathroom they have individual rooms that have toilet and shower with a high lock. Really awesome if you are using shower with toddlers," shares one parent.
Pool access: For summer visits, consider RV parks with swimming facilities. Patriot RV Park offers "a saltwater pool, dog park, laundry room, shower/bathrooms, trees/landscaping and access to a boat ramp," according to a recent visitor.
Playground availability: Some previously advertised play areas may no longer exist. "There are zero amenities there - the playground mentioned in ads no longer exists," warns a camper at COE Lavon Lake Lavonia who visited with grandchildren.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campers report uneven sites throughout the area. "Our site was very unlevel on the hill, so bring your chocks," advises an RVer at COE Lavon Lake Lavonia.
Size considerations: Some campgrounds better accommodate specific RV lengths. At The Waters, "While our almost 40' Class A fit on the pad, if we had anything larger than our Jeep Wrangler as a tow would not have fit in our spot. Really meant for 30' if you have a pickup truck to tow," explains a visitor.
Internet connectivity: Cell service and Wi-Fi quality vary by location. "Wifi is okay. Cell phone reception can be problematic without booster," notes a camper at The Waters. Another visitor to Dallas-Northeast Campground mentions they received "Very friendly staff. Helped us get settled in a spacious pull through site on level, hard packed, crushed stone."
