Lake O' The Pines covers approximately 19,700 acres with an average depth of 20 feet. Located in northeast Texas, this reservoir features water temperatures reaching the upper 80s during summer months and drops to the 50s in winter. The surrounding pine forests create natural wind barriers at many campsites, which affects both tent stability and campfire management.
What to do
Fishing year-round: Fishermen frequent Brushy Creek for bass and catfish throughout all seasons. "Good sized site... every camp site was booked, but where we were it still felt like we had our own little spot," notes Rachel J. about Brushy Creek.
Kayaking cypress trails: Buffalo Bayou RV Park offers direct access to paddle trails through cypress forests. "There's a kayak rental right next door which is a very short paddle to the camp. There's 3 trails close to the park. Trails took 1-2 hours depending on which one you take and how fast you paddle," according to visitor Malae H. at Buffalo Bayou RV Park.
Historic town visits: Jefferson, Texas is a short drive from most campgrounds and offers shopping, museums, and dining. "Close to Jefferson, with great shopping, museums, and restaurants. Can't say enough good things about this jewel in the piney woods of east Texas," writes Lisa B. about day trips from Buckhorn Creek.
What campers like
Lakefront tent sites: Site E210 at Johnson Creek Camp offers stunning views. "The lake was gorgeous and I had tent spot 210 right by the water. The view of the lake in the morning and at sunset was fantastic," shares Des L., though she notes the campsites are close together.
Wildlife viewing: Numerous deer sightings occur throughout the camping areas. "Very Peaceful. This place was not busy when we came out. The view of the lake was beautiful. Lots of deer in the campsite," according to Cindy S. who stayed at Johnson Creek Camp.
Spacious RV sites: Brushy Creek offers ample room between sites. "Big rv spots. Definitely not on top of each other. Very clean park. Rv spots right along the water. You can put in a kayak or canoe from these spots," explains Dannette, highlighting the direct water access.
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary: Facility maintenance differs across campgrounds. "The restroom/shower houses can use some fixing up & deep cleaning, although the facilty by the beach was good," writes Fred S. about Johnson Creek Camp.
Noise levels fluctuate: Some campsites experience boat traffic noise, especially on weekends. "Despite being ostensibly alone, I do believe there is a few Lakeside properties or perhaps a neighborhood nearby because there were boats going back-and-forth across the water at all hours of the night," reports Elise A. at Buckhorn Creek.
Summer heat intensity: Water activities may not provide relief during peak summer. "Was very hot when we went. There was no shade even with our awnings and canopies up! Got in the water to cool off and water was even hotter," warns Wesley D. about Buckhorn Creek in summer.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with play areas: Some dog friendly campgrounds Lake O' The Pines have additional amenities for children. "Great campground... Clean campsites, easy water access. There's some volleyball pits and walking trails. Swim area is also accessible," mentions Savanah H. about Brushy Creek.
Look for spacious sites: Alley Creek Park offers some grouped sites ideal for family gatherings. "If you want to enjoy that whole area to yourself, I would recommend booking Sites T113 - T115 as they are all about the same distance apart," suggests Crys V.
Consider nearby attractions: Day trips can supplement lake activities. "We enjoyed the Jefferson Museum and train ride while we were nearby," shares Cheryl D., who visited the historic town while camping at Brushy Creek.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Many pet-friendly campgrounds at Lake O' The Pines offer varying privacy levels. "I check out all four RV loops, and it's one of the most crowded COE campgrounds I've seen. Site spacing in pretty close, but slightly better than commercial parks. I lucked out on E210, it was a pull-through that perched overlooking the lake," advises Raymond B. about Caddo Lake State Park.
Hookup limitations: Not all sites offer full hookups. "Every site is a concrete pad with a picnic table and fire ring. Hooks up are water and electricity only, no sewer. Phone service is spotty," explains Savanah H. about the Lake O' The Pines Corps of Engineers campgrounds.
Leveling challenges: Site conditions can affect setup. "Asphalt parking pad heaved various places due to tree roots creating numerous tripping hazard," warns Napunani about Daingerfield State Park, a campground near Lake O' The Pines.
