Glamping near Jacksboro, Texas offers diverse options beyond standard campgrounds, with sites spread across rolling prairies and limestone hills at elevations ranging from 850 to 1,200 feet. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F and mild winters, creating a long camping season from March through November. Flash flooding can occur in spring and fall, requiring campers to monitor weather conditions closely.
What to do
Rock climbing: Penitentiary Hollow at Lake Mineral Wells State Park provides beginner to moderate climbing routes on sandstone formations. "Trails are mostly easy, some are completely flat and paved. One trail was nice, moderate difficulty and unpaved," notes Kerri S. Climbing requires 15-20 foot slings as "anchors are miles apart," according to Kadyn D.
Fishing: Multiple access points around Possum Kingdom State Park offer varied fishing environments. The park maintains several fish cleaning stations and provides shoreline access. "Stopped at Boondocks Bar and Grill, and met the lady responsible for the pea salad... an unsung hero of the culinary world," shares Nate K., who combined fishing with local dining.
Wildlife viewing: Prairie dog colonies at Lake Arrowhead State Park create unique wildlife watching opportunities. Located about 30 miles from Jacksboro, the park features multiple colonies. "The Prairie Dogs inhabit the eastern half of the campground. Awesome creatures to watch for hours," explains Jarrid R., who also spotted "western diamond back, owls, rabbits, coyote, deer" during his stay.
What campers like
Historical exploration: Fort Richardson State Park offers self-guided tours through preserved frontier-era buildings. "I took my daughters camping here since it is one of the few parks within an hour of DFW. We took a self guided tour of the grounds and visited the hospital, morgue, bakery, bridge, officer quarters and the nature center," shares James S., noting that "most of the building had interesting things to see."
Lakeside camping: Sites with water views provide direct access to swimming and paddling. "We stayed in site 5 which had water and electric (30 amp), no sewer hookups, but dump in the state park. This site backed up to Lost Creek and was set up on the rocky hillside with access to the Rumbling Spring trail right from the site," says Susan L., who appreciated the wildlife visibility from her creek-side location.
Trailway system: The converted rail-trail offers 20 miles of accessible hiking and biking. "The trails are great with something for everyone. I especially enjoyed the Trailway which was well maintained crushed gravel and made for an easy ride into Jacksboro and beyond to the reservoir," according to Susan L., who found the trail accessibility excellent for biking into town.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many parks have significant variation between sites. At Thousand Trails Bay Landing, "they tell you to go pick out a spot and then call it in to them. Most of the sites had no number," notes Chris P. Another camper, Matthew, advises, "Minimal shade trees, lake access very rocky, most sites are not gravel so you are setting up in grass."
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat requires preparation with temperatures frequently exceeding 95°F. "We spent our only full day hiking. The weather was perfect, blue bird skies and breezy mid-60's," explains Jill B., highlighting the ideal conditions during spring and fall visits.
Wildlife awareness: Rattlesnakes are common in grassy areas, particularly during warmer months. "Summer I was alil weary of the sunny areas because of the overgrowth of vegetation on the trail for the worry of a rattlesnake encounter," warns Garrett B. from his experience at Possum Kingdom State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Explore fort activities: Visit during scheduled events for enhanced historical experiences. "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," explains Crystal C., who recommends planning around these special weekends.
Water activities for children: Plateau campground offers family-friendly water access and playgrounds. "Lake Mineral Wells State Park was great for biking, hiking, swimming and fishing. We had something fun for all 6 of us," shares Deborah C., noting that "the camp store was awesome" with reasonably priced kayak and canoe rentals.
Shelter options: Covered picnic areas provide protection from sun and occasional storms. "The shelter has electricity and water, a pic nic table and a fire ring," explains Ana A., who prefers shelter sites because of "the proximity to the lake. We were able to launch our paddleboards from our site."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites can be limited and often occupied by long-term residents. At Fort Richardson, "Of the 5 sites in this loop, none of us had horses! With only a couple of small pens and not much space, we could see why equestrians might not flock here," notes Ari A., who recommends the main campground for longer stays.
Site leveling: Prepare for potentially uneven sites at older state parks. "Sites: most were level, grass or gravel. I sprained my knee and ankle at this park because our site was so unlevel and the mud sunk our jacks a little. Our rig weighs 16,000lbs so the Class As should be careful," warns Laura H. from her experience at Thousand Trails.
Road conditions: Many access roads require slow driving. "The road is long and paved/gravel. The speed limit is 35mph but I didn't get over 15 or 20 mph because of the holes," explains William, highlighting common conditions at smaller parks in the region.
