Fort Richardson State Park sits at an elevation of around 1,000 feet in the Cross Timbers region of North Texas, where limestone outcroppings and oak woodlands create distinct camping environments. Cabin accommodations near Jacksboro range from basic shelters to more developed options with varying amenities. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night, making the heated cabin options particularly valuable during colder months.
What to do
Historic exploration at the fort: Fort Richardson State Park offers self-guided tours through restored buildings including the hospital and officers' quarters. "The fort is very interesting. I was there on a re-enactment weekend and really enjoyed talking to all the re-enacters. A lot of great history," notes David R. from Fort Richardson State Park.
Fishing opportunities: The park and surrounding lakes provide good fishing spots for those staying in cabin accommodations. "Nice fishing hole in front reservoir," mentions Kerri S. who visited Fort Richardson. At Possum Kingdom State Park, about 45 minutes southwest of Jacksboro, "lots of people clean fish at the designated fish cleaning spots."
Trail hiking: Several parks offer hiking trails of varying difficulty levels. "Trails are mostly easy, some are completely flat and paved. One trail was nice, moderate difficulty and unpaved," reports a visitor to Fort Richardson. For a more challenging experience, Kadyn D. suggests, "if looking for a more challenging hike stick to the purple trail" at Lake Mineral Wells State Park.
What campers like
Water features: Many cabin rentals near Jacksboro provide access to water recreation. "We were able to launch our paddleboards from our site," mentions Ana A. who stayed at Lake Mineral Wells State Park, about 30 miles southeast of Jacksboro. The park also offers "kayak or canoe rentals" at reasonable prices.
Wildlife viewing: Campers appreciate the natural surroundings and wildlife near cabin accommodations. "At night the coyotes sang me to sleep," shares David R. about Fort Richardson. At Rock Island RV Park, visitors note that "ducks and geese flock in the area and create a fun atmosphere" while "horses, donkeys, and other assortments of animals are kept on the premises."
Night sky viewing: The rural setting around Jacksboro provides good stargazing conditions from cabin sites. Crystal C. notes about Fort Richardson State Park that "stars are bright out here," making evening relaxation outside your cabin rental particularly rewarding.
What you should know
Cabin availability varies seasonally: Advance booking is essential, especially during peak periods. At Thousand Trails Bay Landing in Bridgeport, "most of the full hook up sites are occupied by long term residents or annual site holders," according to Laura H.
Site selection matters: Research specific cabin locations before booking. At Lake Mineral Wells, "do your research. Some of the sites there are fairly small," advises Alejandro G. At Fort Richardson, LaRee S. notes that "sound travels. If there are guests at the lodge, you WILL hear them."
Weather preparedness: North Texas weather can change rapidly, affecting cabin camping comfort. Susan L. experienced extreme conditions at Fort Richardson: "Even though a tornado touched down in the nearby small town of Jacksboro during my stay, I enjoyed this state park and all it has to offer."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Several parks near Jacksboro offer learning experiences for children. "The fort buildings are always a hit," says Bill N. about Fort Richardson. James S. adds that "the hospital has some preserved critters like giant centipedes while the nature center has taxidermied animals you can touch."
Recreation options: Great Escapes RV Resort offers extensive family activities beyond cabin accommodations. Austin C. reports, "My wife and my 2 kids had a blast one of the best rv resorts in the dfw area the kids loved the water park and the pools."
Safety considerations: Parks maintain security measures for family peace of mind. Traci M. notes about Fort Richardson: "The local sheriff and police make drive throughs. No safety or security issues," adding that the park gate closes at 10 pm with a code required for later entry.
Tips from RVers
Hookup information: Cabin renters with RVs should verify exact hookup options. At Lake Mineral Wells, Ana A. mentions that shelter sites have "electricity and water, a picnic table and a fire ring." At Fort Richardson, Susan L. stayed in a site with "water and electric (30 amp), no sewer hookups, but dump in the state park."
Site positioning: Some cabin rental locations offer strategic positioning. Jeff T. from Possum Kingdom notes, "Our site 5 was fairly private and set apart from some of the other sites that are bunched together along the road."
