Possum Kingdom Lake offers diverse camping opportunities within 80 miles west of Fort Worth. The lake spans 16,700 acres with limestone cliffs and clear blue waters, making it a popular destination for camping year-round. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-60°F, while summer months often exceed 90°F with high humidity.
What to do
Rock climbing adventures: Penitentiary Hollow at Lake Mineral Wells State Park provides beginner-level climbing routes. "Great rock climbing boating, fishing, trails for walking, hiking. Separate camping loop for tents and also separate one for horses. We have camped there in February, in June and also October," notes Duane S. from Cross Timbers — Lake Mineral Wells State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing piers are available around the lakes. "The park has a small store and there's trout fishing in the quarry lake," writes Susan L. about Fort Richardson State Park Hist. Site and Trailway. The park provides equipment loans for visitors without gear.
Kayaking and canoeing: Rentals are available at reasonable prices. "You can rent them right there at the dock. You can rent jet skis, as well! You can't get to the famous Hells Gate from the park, but if you take the loop through a private community called Sportsman's World, you will run right into a view of it," explains Michelle M. from Possum Kingdom State Park.
Historical exploration: Fort Richardson offers self-guided tours and occasional reenactments. "A few times a year, the City of Jacksboro opens its arms to an influx of campers and schools from around the state eager to see one of the unique reinactments at the historic location of Fort Richardson," shares Crystal C.
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Many camping areas provide well-planned layouts. "We stayed at the Group campground at the top of the dam, and it was a very nice, level site for our tents. It has a wind-break on one side that we were thankful for when the windstorms rolled through," reports LaRee S. about Lake Godstone.
Wildlife viewing: Deer and other animals frequently visit campgrounds. "One week stay during the first week of December D&D south. Weather: highs in the 60s, lows in the 40s. Covered picnic tables, grills, fire pits, trash cans at most sites. Restrooms spaced throughout the park. Massive trail system throughout the area," notes Meagan B. from North D&D - Brazos River Public Use Area #4.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "Camped here on a weekday in November and we pretty much had it all to ourselves. Clean facilities with toilets and showers. Deer roamed free and the lake was peaceful with a small dock for boating and fishing," says Kara S. about North D&D.
Lakeside camping: Sites with water views are particularly popular. "Tent camping areas in all 5 with shelters, grill, and picnic tables, many waterside. Public Area 4 and 6 have RV pads (which they do charge $10 to use in the Summer) with shelters, grill, and picnic tables, and many are waterside," notes Darlene from Possum Kingdom Lake BRA.
What you should know
Seasonal fee variations: Some public use areas change from free to paid depending on season. "No cost during May-September. No water or dump in the parks, but there are showers," explains Meagan B. about North D&D.
Sound travels across water: Be mindful of noise at lakeside sites. "One thing to note if you are camping around the lake - sound travels. If there are guests at the lodge, you WILL hear them," warns LaRee S. about Lake Godstone.
Wildlife precautions: Multiple reviews mention wildlife encounters. "Stars are bright out here. Coyotes sang us to sleep," adds LaRee S., indicating campers should secure food properly at night.
Trail conditions: Hiking paths vary significantly in difficulty and maintenance. "Trails are well maintained and very nice, we mostly did the Lakeview Trail, but it was a great hike, not too strenuous but with great views of the lake," shares Jim P. from Possum Kingdom State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Designated beach sections offer kid-friendly water access. "The swimming area is nice and the camping spots are spaced well," notes Susan from Screened Shelters — Lake Mineral Wells State Park.
Multiple recreation options: Some facilities offer diverse activities for children. "Three pools, lots of playgrounds, mini golf, golf course, RV spots, cabins, group facilities. Clean. Very accommodating," describes Cathy B. about Great Escapes RV Resort North Texas.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences for children. "This is a fun little state park was just perfect for a little Saturday night away. It is just a little less than 2 hours from Fort Worth. The park has a stocked fishing lake and equipment for loan. There is all the fort buildings to explore with rangers giving talks and various activities," shares Traci M.
Pet-friendly trails: Families with dogs can access most hiking paths. "The good part about this loop is that you're camping within site of the historic Fort Richardson and visiting the grounds is a short walk," mentions Ari A., noting the pet-friendly camping near Graford, Texas extends to historical attractions.
Tips from RVers
Site width considerations: Some RV sites have limited space. "Only complaint is the width of the campsite. I don't know that all were as narrow as ours, but site 20 is a really tight squeeze. Went off the side a couple of times trying to get in," warns Jim P. about Possum Kingdom State Park.
Pad conditions: Check site surface quality when reserving. "Pads are broken up almost to the point of dangerous. Walked around in flip flops and had tar balls attach to my feet," cautions Robin B.
Cell service quality: Remote work capabilities vary by location. "Excellent service for school/remote work. Ideal for tents, vans, truck campers, and small trailers," reports Meagan B. about North D&D.
Off-season advantages: Less crowded conditions outside peak periods. "This state park only has 4 full hookup sites but they are private feeling," notes Sarah J. about Fort Richardson State Park, where additional space between RVs creates a more pleasant experience during quieter months.
Ranger
