Camping near Wright Patman Lake, TX

Wright Patman Lake offers year-round camping with elevation ranging between 220-240 feet above sea level. This northeastern Texas reservoir spans approximately 20,300 acres with 170 miles of shoreline. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting campsite availability especially in spring when levels typically rise.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: The lake supports various fish species with designated fishing areas near Clear Spring Campground. "Many of the sites are lakefront, others are in shaded loops within a 2 min walk of the lake shore," notes a camper. Another visitor mentions the lake "looks to be a good fishing and water sport area."

Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings are common throughout Atlanta State Park Campground. "Pulling in, we were welcomed by a herd of 23 deer grazing in the common areas," reports a visitor at Rocky Point. The wooded areas provide habitat for various wildlife species.

Hiking trails: Several campgrounds offer maintained trails for different skill levels. At Atlanta State Park, "trails are beautiful and if you piece them together can be challenging. This park is very well maintained. I saw a few trail signs that were brand new and another trail is closed for maintenance."

What campers like

Lakeside sites: The most popular sites offer direct water access at Rocky Point(wright Patman Dam). "We were in site B5 for 12 days in September and October 2020. This site was not very level but we had great views of the lake out the front and side of our MH." Many campers recommend reserving waterfront spots well in advance.

Clean facilities: Park maintenance receives positive feedback at multiple locations. At Rocky Point, a visitor noted: "Pulling in, the sites have the leaves blown off so you can easily see the paved areas. It's just beautiful!" Another camper commented that Rocky Point is "one of the prettiest sites we've stayed in."

Affordable rates: Several campgrounds offer reasonable pricing with discounts for senior pass holders. A camper at Kelly Creek Park shared: "We stayed one week and it was a quiet and enjoyable campground at a reasonable price."

What you should know

Weather considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity. "We stayed here in the summer and it was hot and humid. We didn't catch much fish but heat index was over 100," reported a camper at Rocky Point.

Reservation requirements: Most Wright Patman Lake campgrounds require advance bookings. A visitor to Texarkana KOA advised: "Remember to book in advance online! They won't let you in without an online reservation and cell coverage is minimal."

Paper mill odor: Some campers report occasional unpleasant smells depending on wind direction. A visitor noted: "There can be a sewer-like odor that I'm told is coming from a paper mill in New Boston."

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly activities: Playgrounds and swimming areas make certain campgrounds better for families. "This camp was clean. Has disc golf, trails, a pavilion, a basketball net, boat dock, volleyball net, and a swim beach," reported a visitor at Rocky Point.

Safety measures: Some campgrounds offer better security than others. "No security after hours and no way to get help after lady leaves at 5," noted a camper at Texarkana KOA, while Texarkana RV Park & Event Center has "a gated entrance for extra security."

Bug prevention: Insects can be problematic during warmer months. "I would recommend bringing a citronella candle there were a lot of bugs at night," advised a visitor at Atlanta State Park.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling: Many campers report varying pad conditions across Wright Patman Lake campgrounds. At Kelly Creek Park, a visitor observed: "Un-level sites: The sites are rolling grass hills; it is possible to park in a direction that is even (L/R) but may take some finesse."

Hookup variations: Electric amperage and sewer connections differ between loops and campgrounds. At Piney Point, "only a handful are 50 amp, which we were fortunate to get. The park isn't very large (about 50 sites). Exterior sites have more space between them than interior sites."

Site spacing: RV parking configurations vary significantly. "The sites are gravel with a patio and they have 50 amp FHU. Beware of your slide placement before parking, as site poles may be in the way of a slide fully opening," cautioned a visitor at Texarkana RV Park & Event Center.