Lavon Lake campsites vary from highly rated lakeview spots with electric and water hookups to more basic sites with limited amenities. The 21,400-acre reservoir lies at 492 feet elevation with temperatures often exceeding 95°F during summer months. Campsite availability fluctuates seasonally, with many Corps of Engineers locations operating on restricted schedules from March through September.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: East Fork Park Campground offers direct lake access with multiple fishing spots. "The location is nice on the lake with lots of sail boats sailing by. There is plenty of space between sites," notes Mia D., who visited the campground despite road conditions.
Mountain biking trails: Erwin Park features approximately 9 miles of maintained trails for cycling enthusiasts. A regular visitor explains, "Great easy spot for day camping or easy car camping with family. Best mountain bike single tracks around with lots of built features."
Catch and release pond: For those staying at The Waters, the property includes a dedicated fishing pond. One camper mentioned, "Nice catch and release pond," making it ideal for recreational anglers wanting quick access to fishing without boat requirements.
Hiking routes: Erwin Park provides marked hiking paths through wooded areas. "Erwin Park is a great place to visit if you're looking to spend a few days running or biking trails," reports one camper, noting that "runners, hikers, walkers go one direction and bikes go the opposite."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Clear Lake Park receives high marks for its peaceful atmosphere. "Nice quiet park. Bathrooms are very clean," notes Sammie F., highlighting the well-maintained facilities.
Lake views: Most campsites at COE Lavon Lake Lavonia feature water views. "Wide open spaces and beautiful lake views. The sites are far apart and lots of green space," reports Jess W., appreciating the spacing between sites.
Clean bathroom facilities: Several parks maintain quality restrooms despite other limitations. At Lavonia, one reviewer noted, "Each bathroom was a single occupant bathroom with a locking door. In the bathroom was a sink, a toilet, a hand dryer, and a shower with two nozzles at different heights. The appliances were stainless steel."
Quiet atmosphere: The distance from urban centers provides relative calm at most Lavon Lake camping areas. As one Erwin Park visitor mentioned, "It's a ways out of the way of the city noise. The only sound other than bird song is the occasional moo and some coyote yips in the distance."
What you should know
Road conditions: Multiple campgrounds suffer from deteriorating infrastructure. At East Fork Park, a camper observed, "Sites are fairly well dispersed with water and electric at each. Be careful though, because the asphalt is crumbling and many have ankle-breaking drop offs between the parking pad and the picnic table."
Grass maintenance issues: Inconsistent groundskeeping affects several campgrounds. According to Christina H., "The only reason I'm giving this campground 4 stars is because: the grass was tall at the campsite, could have been maintained better, RV pads are asphalt and not very level."
Limited activities: Collin Park provides minimal facilities beyond basic camping. A visitor noted, "Only a few tent areas left since erosion has left several falling into the lake. Easy access, plenty of tree coverage, and each area has a picnic table, grill, and fire pit."
Site leveling challenges: Many RV pads require additional equipment for leveling. As Natalie S. mentioned about Lavonia, "Doesn't have a lot of bells and whistles but does have sewer, lake views, wide open spaces, and clean! Only drawbacks are unlevel sites and front gates don't open til 10am every morning."
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Most Lavon Lake campgrounds lack dedicated children's play areas. One Lavonia visitor noted, "This is more like being at a day park where you'd find playground equipment (except there isn't any). If you have kids and are just looking for an easy day out on the lake, this is great."
Swimming considerations: Designated swimming areas exist but may have maintenance issues. At East Fork Park, one camper reported, "It's close to town just in case you need to make a quick trip for something. This lake is great for boating. There was a nice swim area and overall the campground was clean and quiet."
Shade availability: Many campsites lack sufficient tree coverage for hot summer days. Christina H. advised, "There weren't a whole lot of trees and none over the RV pads, so keep that in mind as far as the sun beating down on the camper."
Safety concerns: Some facilities require attention to avoid injury. At Patriot RV Park, a long-term resident warned, "Have heard that the lower area does have pooling of water with heavy rain. It does go away quickly, but should be aware of this if you have lots of outside things or a pet."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choose elevated spots to avoid water issues during rain. A camper at Melanie and Doug G. observed at East Fork Park, "It looks like there could be a lot of water pooled on and behind our site with a heavy rain. The pad has definitely broken up over time and isn't level."
Park access restrictions: Some campgrounds limit entry during certain hours. At Lavonia, one RVer shared, "Only drawbacks are unlevel sites and front gates don't open til 10am every morning so can't get back in if you go get breakfast."
Extended stay considerations: For longer visits, consider full-hookup locations. Susan M. shares about Alvin Lafon's RV Parks, "We've been residents here for three years and have been very happy. Perhaps not as many amenities, but it is a safe, secure place to stay, with a responsive, friendly staff."
Internet connectivity: Wi-Fi quality varies significantly between campgrounds. Rachel H. reports about The Waters, "Wifi is okay. Cell phone reception can be problematic without booster," indicating that campers requiring reliable connection should bring additional equipment.
