Gainesville, Texas, sits at the northern edge of the state with an elevation of around 750 feet, experiencing hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters. The area features a mix of forested areas and rolling prairie terrain with numerous lakes and reservoirs providing water-based recreation opportunities. Many camping areas in this region offer lakeside sites with varying degrees of shade, which can be crucial during summer months when heat indexes regularly climb above 95°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lake Texoma, the fishing is productive year-round with numerous species available. "We had a great view of the lake and was one of the most beautiful spots I have seen. We were able to go on the Buck horn trail which wasn't that long and was filled with families hiking," reports one visitor to Lake Murray State Park Elephant Rock Campground.
Hiking trails: Ray Roberts Lake State Park offers multiple trail systems for various skill levels. "There are plenty of hiking trails. You really can't go wrong with Johnson Branch on Lake Ray Roberts," mentions a camper who enjoyed Johnson Branch Campsites.
Water activities: With several lakes in the area, kayaking and boating are popular options near Gainesville. At Lake Murray State Park, "On Sunday we got up with the sun and beat everyone else to the boat launch area. If you're in the tent camping area there are plenty of places to launch a kayak," notes a visitor to Buzzards Roost.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the Gainesville region offer generous camping areas. "The site was actually pretty nice. It had the most trees over the sites around us, to give us a 'in the woods' feel. The tent pad was big enough for a 6 man tent and a four man tent, with room to spare," shares a camper from Johnson Branch.
Lake views: Waterfront campsites are highly sought after for glamping close to Gainesville, Texas. "The campground is tucked away in a woodsy area of Lake Texoma, our waterfront spot had a beautiful view & the sound of the fish jumping all around with the birds was quite serene!" remarks a guest at Walnut Creek Resort.
Cleanliness: Well-maintained facilities are consistently mentioned in reviews. "Very clean and well kept State Park, Bath and showers are very clean and warm," notes a camper at Ray Roberts Lake State Park, while another at Eisenhower State Park adds that "the bathrooms are always clean. Fellow campers are very friendly."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Make sure that you spend a lot of time in the lake because it gets hot," advises a visitor to Johnson Branch, noting how summer heat makes water access important.
Site selection considerations: Some campgrounds have specific limitations or advantages to different sites. "Most camp sites are shaded with pull through sites full hook ups, well maintained and quiet," notes a camper at Eisenhower State Park, providing useful context for site selection.
Facility availability: Bathroom and shower access varies considerably between campgrounds. At Marietta Landing Campground, a camper points out, "One thing, the bathhouse is between the two loops so is a bit of a walk from the RV loop," information that helps with planning.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "The other nice thing from our site, was that we were about 1/4 mile from a little playground for the kids. The playground wasn't anything grand, but it broke up the days for the kids some, which as all parents know is a gift," explains a Johnson Branch camper.
Swimming locations: Not all campgrounds have designated swimming areas. "The swim area in this park is down a pretty steep gravel trail that I had a hard time navigating," mentions a visitor to Eisenhower State Park, noting accessibility challenges families should consider.
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer nature programming for kids. "It was very windy but we had loads of fun! We learned what native plants we can eat!" shares a Scout leader who visited Johnson Branch with youth groups.
Tips from RVers
Hookup details: RV campers should note the specific utilities available at each site. "Concrete back in sites with full hookup's! Also fire rings, covered patio table's," describes a camper at Ray Roberts Lake State Park, offering practical information for RV setup.
Site leveling: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for proper RV setup. "The site (BR011) was hard to back into. The approach is narrow and there's a large boulder right in the turn path of the tow vehicle. It also leans slightly downhill so leveling pads were critical," warns a Buzzards Roost camper.
Big rig accessibility: Larger RVs may find certain parks more accommodating. "Nice large concrete spaces with plenty of room for a 44' 5th wheel, tow vehicle and extra vehicle," notes a visitor to Sanger-Denton North KOA, providing specific measurements helpful for larger RV owners.
