Dispersed camping near Gordonville, Texas encompasses more than just the Cross Timbers Trail system. The area features limestone outcroppings and mixed hardwood forests typical of the Cross Timbers ecoregion, with elevations ranging from 600 to 700 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F while winter nights often drop below freezing, requiring campers to prepare for seasonal extremes when planning rustic camping experiences in this region.
What to do
Fishing adventures: At Blue River Camp, visitors can explore multiple fishing spots, though success varies. "The water was amazing and clean. We went on a Tuesday so there wasn't any one else there. We did some awesome exploring up and down the river," reports Carrie T., though she notes "The fishing however is not good. We stayed for 3 days and fished the whole time with no luck."
Hammock camping: The terrain at 5 Mile Camp Primitive Dispersed Camping provides good opportunities for hammock setups. Shane W. shares, "Good spot. I stayed in my hammock and buddy in his tent back in Nov 2019. Stopped just before a cold front with rain hit and built a fire. Found a long sheet of tent to reflect the heat so had a great time hiking in."
Waterfall viewing: Just a short drive from Gordonville, Hughes Crossing features a unique drive-over waterfall. Andi P. describes it as "a beautiful little waterfall that also substitutes as a bridge, but the area is perfect for swimming. There is a bit of green algae, but it is otherwise clear and refreshing."
What campers like
Peninsula views: The elevated position at Eagle's Roost Campsite creates a unique vantage point for lake views and wildlife observation. Kelly G. considers it the "Favorite campsite on entire Cross Timber's Trail" and explains, "It's way up on a wooded peninsula along a spur that overlooks the lake. Birds flock over and it's far enough away from the freeway that it's quiet (with the exception of the occasional fishing boat)."
Secluded river spots: The rustic camping areas near Gordonville offer various levels of seclusion. One camper at Blue River Camp found that "The campsite was secluded with several paths that lead down to the river," providing privacy even in more developed areas.
Training opportunities: The technical nature of local trails provides preparation for more challenging hikes. Kelly G. notes the Cross Timbers Trail "is more technical than most in the vicinity and is a great place to do a gear shake down and train for those longer through hikes in more mountainous regions."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some camping areas near Gordonville require permits or licenses. At Blue River Camp, Lora warns, "To enter the grounds you need a hunting/fishing license or a 3day wildlife conservation passport. The passport is for any activity on the grounds, excluding hunting or fishing and they are $51 currently."
Access challenges: Some camping locations have unclear or contested access points. Matt M. reports about 5 Mile Camp: "The coordinates bring you to what looks like a driveway that has signs for no trespassing and beware of dogs. After looking at the map, it looks like that's the only way to get back there, so I'm assuming the homeowner who shares that road put those signs to keep people away."
Litter issues: Unfortunately, some primitive camping areas suffer from visitor neglect. One camper noted "the amount of trash that people had left" and suggested carrying out "at least one or two grocery bags worth of other people's trash so that I can hopefully leave places better than I found them."
Tips for camping with families
Weekday visits: For a more peaceful experience with children, consider mid-week camping. As Carrie T. observed at Blue River Camp, "We went on a Tuesday so there wasn't any one else there," which can make managing children easier while allowing them to explore freely.
Swimming spots: Families can enjoy natural swimming areas near Hughes Crossing where one visitor found "the area is perfect for swimming" despite "a bit of green algae."
Flat camping areas: Look for level sites when camping with kids. Carrie T. noted that at Blue River Camp "There was so many campsites and they were all well maintained and flat," making setup easier for families with tents and multiple gear items.
Tips from RVers
Access evaluation: Before attempting to reach rustic camping areas near Gordonville with an RV, scout the access road first. While Blue River Camp has "big-rig-friendly" designation, many primitive sites are accessible only by hiking or with high-clearance vehicles.
Hughes Crossing caution: RVers should avoid attempting to cross the water feature at Hughes Crossing. One visitor watched as "several trucks easily pass over" but specifically noted they "did not attempt this in the mustang," suggesting larger vehicles might struggle.
Weather preparation: The region's clay soil can become problematic during rain. Ryan H. recommends RVers "Come prepared it's fully primitive" when considering the backcountry camping options near Lake Texoma, as weather changes can quickly affect road conditions.
