Ray Roberts Lake State Park offers horseback riding opportunities along its trail system while accommodating overnight equestrian camping near Gainesville, Texas. The park provides both designated sites for horse owners and a trail network that connects riders to various terrain options throughout the grounds. The Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands also serves as a popular destination for horseback enthusiasts seeking camping with their horses in the Gainesville area. Sites within these public lands vary from primitive to those with amenities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Platter Flats Campground, visitors can enjoy lakeside fishing without traveling far from camp. "Great place for fishing, and if you are looking for a wonderful sunset, you have found the best place for it," notes reviewer Leah P. The campground offers direct lake access for bank fishing or boat launch facilities.
Primitive camping skills: The LBJ Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands provides an ideal setting for practicing outdoor skills. "Great for hikes, outdoor skills and group. Scouts go often for primative overnights," reports W.P. The open spaces and minimal amenities create a perfect environment for learning basic wilderness techniques.
Horseback riding: For riders at Tadra Point Trailhead & Campground, trails lead to various terrain options. The facility has "plenty of poles for tying horses and there is water trofts for them," according to Mesha P., though she cautions that riders should "think about bringing several gallons of water" as the existing water sources may not be optimal.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The Johnson Branch Campsites receive praise for their layout. One camper observed, "The sites are so well manicured and like the other reviews stated, they're 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." This natural separation creates personal camping spaces despite proximity.
Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings are common at several campgrounds. At Johnson Branch, one visitor noted, "Deer will approach your campsite and you're likely to see all kinds of wildlife." The LBJ Grasslands also offers wildlife encounters with one camper reporting, "We have car camped on a few occasions here and each time we saw plenty of deer around camp."
Lakefront sites: Many prefer waterfront camping at Pilot Knoll Park Campground where "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." These sites allow campers to enjoy the lake views directly from their campsite.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: The campgrounds experience significant visitor fluctuation throughout the year. A long-time visitor to Isle du Bois Campsites shared, "There are few campers here in December. Restrooms were clean. Campsites, large and private." Winter visits typically mean fewer neighbors and more solitude.
Water levels: Lake conditions can vary seasonally, affecting campsite availability. One RV camper at Isle du Bois noted, "We went last weekend, water is high, some areas for RV flooded out." Checking current lake conditions before arrival prevents disappointment with flooded sites.
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds have challenging access for certain equipment. At Johnson Branch, a camper warned about primitive sites: "Most campsites have a lengthy walk-in distance so be prepared! Bring a cart; it'll speed things up massively." This is particularly important for those with heavy gear.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: At Johnson Branch, campers with children appreciate the recreational facilities. "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."
Swimming areas: Lake Murray Resort offers designated swimming zones ideal for families. A visitor noted the variety of activities: "Water activities on the centerpiece 5,278 surface acre Lake Murray, 18 hole golf, picnicking, fishing, camping, trail riding, hayrides, 30 miles of hiking, swimming, miniature golf."
Pack proper footwear: Some lakefront areas may have uncomfortable terrain. One visitor to Lake Murray State Park advised, "Nice place and a beautiful scenic drive. Good place to hike and swim, sites are decent and give a fair amount of space in between. Bring shoes though! Lots of little prickers in the grass down by the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers should consider the location carefully when booking. At Isle du Bois, "The primitive sites in the Hawthorne campgrounds are spaced a good distance apart and really give you a feel of isolation. Sites on the perimeter all have lake access where you can pull a boat up."
Hookup logistics: At Pilot Knoll Park, RVers find "Lots of large back in spots with 50/30 amp plugs, water hook ups, fire pit and picnic table. Many spots are have direct access to the lake to launch a kayak or SUP, boat launch in the day use area."
Weather preparation: Shade availability varies between sites and can significantly impact comfort. One Johnson Branch camper advised, "And definitely bring a canopy or tarp; there isn't much cover here. But at night, the temperature was quite comfortable, albeit windy." This is especially important during hot Texas summers.
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