Lake Whitney serves as the centerpiece for equestrian camping near Hillsboro, Texas. Located approximately 30 miles from Hillsboro, the lake's shoreline hosts several campgrounds that accommodate both horses and riders. The area features clay and limestone soil, which can become challenging after heavy rainfall with most equestrian trails open year-round except during hunting season or extreme weather conditions.
What to do
Trail riding along lake shores: At Cedar Hill State Park Campground, riders find interconnected trails suitable for various skill levels. "The park is designed with small loops for 15-20 camp sites in each loop. Very little traffic right by the individual spots. Easy in and out of park," notes Michael C.
Fishing for local species: Navarro Mills Lake offers prime fishing spots close to equestrian areas. "Lake Navarro Mills is well know as the best Crappie fishing lake in Texas. Navarro Mills Liberty Hill Park features a fantastic fishing barge that is covered allowing you to fish no matter the weather," explains Dude R. from Liberty Hill Park.
Swimming in designated areas: When temperatures rise, several campgrounds provide swimming options. At Loyd Park, "Beach area and playgrounds are great, although you do have quite a few 'day users.' The park also has a boat ramp," according to Randy H.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Plowman Creek offers ample room between campsites. "The campsites are nicely spaced out so each group does have some privacy. The campsite has some nice amenities: campfire ring, picnic table with a shelter, and grill," writes David L.
Lakeside views: Campers appreciate sites with direct water access. At Lofers Bend West, "We stayed at site 63 which is right on lake edge. Amazing sunsets. Across inlet from boat ramp. The sites have covered picnic tables with both fire pits with grates and stand up covered grills," shares Amy K.
Wildlife encounters: The area supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "Lots of wildlife to look at," notes Shane M. about Lofers Bend West, while other campers frequently mention deer sightings throughout the Hillsboro camping area.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water levels and site availability vary throughout the year. "It's a gorgeous park and I'd hate to leave a bad review just because we went at a bad time. Our weekend was filled with rain and wind but the last day we were there was gorgeous and we were able to explore," explains Michaela L. about McCown Valley Park.
Insect challenges: Several campgrounds report issues with ants and other pests. "There were sand spurs all over the ground. I had to try to shovel out most before putting the tent out. It didn't matter, every 2 minutes the kids where crying or I was pulling one out of the dogs paw or my leg," warns Greg about certain tent areas at McCown Valley Park.
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian sites require advance booking. "The hidden gem of Lake Whitney. Tent sites are tucked in the back of the park away from foot traffic and most vehicles. Lake front sites are perfectly located with access to the lake but not too far from hard stand bathrooms and showers," mentions Wes M. about McCown Valley Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple parks offer child-friendly recreation areas. "A great camp site for families. We spent three days there swimming and hiking around. Great times!" shares Myc C. about Loyd Park.
Shallow swimming spots: Identify safe water access points for younger children. "Great park. Nice day use area. All types of camping. Some with shade some without," notes Connie J. about McCown Valley Park.
Educational opportunities: Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground provides unique learning experiences. "This place is awesome. One of the best natural swimming holes I've found near DFW. There are dinosaur fossils everywhere. hiking is great, and even on a hot summer day you can go swim in the river or the blue hole," explains Julie W.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of services. "Sites have electricity and water, sewer dump is community spread across the grounds," reports David G. about Loyd Park, while noting their "site was only a hundred feet from the lake - gorgeous view!"
Road conditions: Access roads at some parks require caution. "The road in and around campsites is in various states of disrepair. Lots of potholes and pavement breaks make it rough hauling an expensive rig in and out of the park," warns Rachel P. about Lake Whitney RV Campground.
Weather preparedness: RVers should plan for potential weather impacts. "We got a free Thousand Trails membership from the dealership when we purchased our new camper so we decided to use it for Labor Day at Lake Whitney RV Campgrounds. The sites were 30 AMPs with full hooks up and that part was nice," explains Chris K., though noting flooding can be an issue in some areas.
