Ray Roberts Lake State Park dominates camping options near Krugerville, Texas with its distinct Isle du Bois and Johnson Branch units on opposite sides of the lake. Situated in the Cross Timbers ecological region at approximately 640 feet elevation, the area experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. Most campsites require advance reservations during peak season from March through October.
What to do
Fishing from shore or pier: At Hickory Creek on Lake Lewisville, multiple spots offer easy access for bank fishing. "Sites 119-122 (maybe 123) are right on the lake so you can see ducks and do some bank fishing without needing to go anywhere," notes Christopher L. about Ray Roberts Lake's Isle du Bois.
Explore primitive camping areas: Isle du Bois offers secluded options for those seeking more isolation. "We have done a lot of Primitive camping here that requires only a half mile walk from the parking lot. The primitive sites in the Hawthorne campgrounds are spaced a good distance apart and really give you a feel of isolation," shares Matt S.
Visit the swimming beach: Ray Roberts Lake State Park Isle du Bois features designated swimming areas for summer visitors. "There is also a fantastic beach swim area for day use or to visit while your camping. Nice sand and roped off swimming areas with large playgrounds," according to Matt S.
Use the hiking trail network: The Johnson Branch unit provides multiple trail options. "Very clean showers, nice trails...very family friendly. Enjoyed our quick overnight," writes Bryan A. These trails are typically less crowded than those at Isle du Bois.
What campers like
Large, private campsites: Sites at Hickory Creek - Lewisville Lake provide generous space between neighbors. "A lot of space between sites, well level and paved, family oriented, very quite, beautiful lake and tree sites, lighted power supply post with all the amps available. Fire pits, bbq, picnic tables and some with gazebo," according to Reynolds O.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers report frequent wildlife sightings. "We have car camped on a few occasions here and each time we saw plenty of deer around camp," reports Matt S. about Isle du Bois, while Tony C. adds, "Deer will approach your campsite and you're likely to see all kinds of wildlife."
Year-round availability: Unlike some seasonal parks, most campgrounds in the area remain open throughout the year. "There are few campers here in December. Restrooms were clean. Campsites, large and private," notes Eric R. about winter camping at Isle du Bois.
Accessibility to amenities: Willow Grove Park offers conveniences despite feeling remote. "The bathrooms are clean, signal is great for Verizon and T-mobile. Fairly close by to Carrollton where there's amazing Asian food and boba. Lake is gorgeous too," Joyce L. shares about her experience.
What you should know
Primitive site distances: At Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch, walk-in sites require more effort than advertised. "The trail path to the campsites is further than indicated or implied on the website, which isn't a problem if you're packed light, but if you're car camping with heavy equipment you will be surprised how far it is," warns Christopher L.
Weather conditions: The Texas climate creates unique challenges. "Super, super windy. Got hit by two really bad lightning and thunderstorms and had to sit in my car for a while during the worst of it (certain parts had tornados and hail)," reports Joyce L. about Willow Grove Park.
Off-season advantages: Visiting during cooler months offers benefits. "We went last weekend, water is high, some areas for RV flooded out. Great place to go," notes Augustin T. about spring conditions at Isle du Bois.
Security considerations: Some parks lack controlled access. "The park is technically closed at 10pm but there's no gate and technically anyone can drive in any time," explains Joyce L. about Willow Grove. "This park would be great if they had someone working the gate. So much traffic and it felt like it went way later than 10 pm," adds Mia D.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds for children: Multiple parks offer dedicated play areas. "There are several playground areas central to the various campgrounds with easy access for your family," notes Matt S. about Isle du Bois. At Pilot Knoll Park - Lake Lewisville, "There is a playground for the kids, and even a Little Free Library," according to Jessica H.
Swimming options with safety features: Designated swimming areas provide controlled environments. "The last was warm and there was a little 'beach' for swimming - I would recommend water shoes and floaties!" advises Summer A. about Willow Grove Park.
Camping close to home advantage: When traveling with kids, proximity matters. "We hopped over for a one night trip and had a blast! Our site was right off the water with a fun view (at night) of the lake Lewisville bridge. Sites were large enough for us (tent campers) without feeling too close to our rv/camper neighbors!" shares Joshua M. about Hickory Creek.
Tent site selection: Choose sites based on family needs. "If you're picking a site in this camp area, #117 is right off the trail and nearest to the community restrooms," recommends Christopher L. about Isle du Bois.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Shady Creek RV Park and Storage offers complete services for extended stays. "Very clean and well kept RV park. Close to town, but feels secluded enough. Great experience for long-term camping," reports Jess W.
Laundry facilities: Several parks offer washing machines. "I really like the app that lets you pay so you don't need coins but also tells you how much time you have remaining or if there are machines available," shares Rafael A. about the convenience at Shady Creek.
Water pressure issues: Be prepared with regulators at some parks. "I found the water pressure too strong for my class b as the pressure caused a link under my sink. Convinced me to purchase my own water pressure resistor gauge," warns Chris P. about Pilot Knoll Park.
Site layout and navigation: Pay attention to access routes. "Road into park is a narrow residential street. Entry gate is narrow. Single loop road allows for fairly easy backing into sites," notes "Me" regarding Willow Grove Park.
Ranger
