Best Campgrounds near Gainesville, TX
Camping opportunities around Gainesville, Texas include a mix of state parks, RV resorts, and lakeside campgrounds within an hour's drive. Ray Roberts Lake State Park offers two distinct camping areas—Isle du Bois and Johnson Branch—with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations. Lake Texoma's numerous campgrounds provide additional options along the Texas-Oklahoma border, while several private RV parks like Lake Point RV Resort and Sanger-Denton North KOA cater to travelers seeking more amenities.
The North Texas climate makes camping viable year-round, though summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, making lakeside locations particularly desirable. Most developed campgrounds in the region provide water and electric hookups, with many offering full sewer connections for RVs. A visitor noted, "The location of this campground feels secluded from the city but close to the highway so you can be in the city within a few minutes drive." Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, with most campgrounds reporting strong coverage. During holiday weekends and summer months, advance reservations are strongly recommended as lakefront sites fill quickly.
Waterfront camping represents a significant draw for the Gainesville area, with several lakes providing recreational opportunities. Ray Roberts Lake State Park receives consistently positive reviews for its spacious sites and lake access. According to one camper, "The campground is nice and well maintained and sites are well spaced with lots of grass, trees and/or open areas." For those seeking more primitive experiences, the LBJ National Grasslands northwest of Gainesville offers dispersed camping options with fewer amenities but greater privacy. Visitors to the grasslands should be prepared for self-sufficient camping with no facilities. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the region, with deer, waterfowl, and other native species commonly spotted at dawn and dusk.
