Ray Roberts Lake State Park offers several options for equine enthusiasts seeking horse campgrounds near Lewisville, Texas. The Johnson Branch unit features equestrian campsites with full hookups, while primitive camping areas provide more seclusion for riders. Located approximately 30 miles north of Lewisville, the park maintains over 12 miles of equestrian trails that wind through wooded areas. Winter temperatures typically range from 35-65°F, making it an ideal time for trail riding without summer heat concerns.
What to do
Trail riding at Johnson Branch: Access miles of dedicated equestrian trails directly from camping areas. "The equestrian trail system connects riders to multiple areas of the park with routes suitable for various skill levels," notes a visitor. Johnson Branch offers less crowded conditions compared to other units, "not near as busy as Isle Du Bois. Both of these campgrounds at Lake Ray Roberts are very well kept," according to Kerry C.
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer opportunities to observe deer and other wildlife. "We have car camped on a few occasions here and each time we saw plenty of deer around camp," reports Matt S. at Isle du Bois Campsites. Another camper mentions, "Deer will approach your campsite and you're likely to see all kinds of wildlife."
Lake activities: Several parks offer direct lake access for fishing and boating. At Pilot Knoll Park Campground, "Each lot has large raised gravel areas set up in place outside the camper doorway. I love this feature because it provides a mud free immediate campsite area," writes Monica C. The park features "calm water, large lot land area and clean, easy access to walk right into the lake to swim."
What campers like
Large, private sites: Many campgrounds offer spacious sites with good separation. At Ray Roberts Lake, "Campsites, large and private," notes Eric R. Another camper describes the primitive sites: "The primitive sites in the Hawthorne campgrounds are spaced a good distance apart and really give you a feel of isolation."
Equestrian-friendly facilities: Cedar Hill State Park Campground provides additional equestrian options within driving distance of Lewisville. The park offers both horse trails and camping areas, with space for horse trailers. "The park is designed with small loops for 15-20 camp sites in each loop. Very little traffic right by the individual spots," explains Michael C.
Clean facilities: Many parks maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. At Johnson Branch, one visitor notes "Clean showers, nice trails...very family friendly." Joyce L. describes her experience: "Overall, it was well-organized, easy to contact the office, and a great experience."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer months bring extreme heat that can limit comfortable riding hours. "Make sure that you spend a lot of time in the lake because it gets hot," advises Matt S. about Johnson Branch. Winter and spring offer more comfortable temperatures for equestrian activities.
Site selection tips: When booking at Loyd Park, "All sites are paved, several are lake front, and the majority of them are well shaded," according to Randy H. Specific campsite recommendations can make a difference: "If you're picking a site in this camp area, #117 is right off the trail and nearest to the community restrooms."
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian sites require advance booking. "The park also has a boat ramp," notes Randy H. about Loyd Park, making it suitable for those bringing both horses and boats. Weekends fill quickly, especially during spring and fall.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There are several playground areas central to the various campgrounds with easy access for your family," notes Matt S. about Isle du Bois. Another camper mentions, "There's also a great little park near the boat ramp area."
Swimming options: East Fork Park Campground offers lake swimming. "There was a nice swim area and overall the campground was clean and quiet," reports Christina H. Ray Roberts Lake State Park also features "a fantastic beach swim area for day use or to visit while your camping. Nice sand and roped off swimming areas with large playgrounds."
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer nature programs for children. "We learned what native plants we can eat!" shares Sarah E. from Johnson Branch after camping with Cub Scouts. Parents also mention the wildlife viewing opportunities as educational experiences for children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most equestrian campsites offer water and electrical connections. "Concrete back in sites with full hookup's! Also fire rings, covered patio table's," reports Tammie L. about Johnson Branch. Some parks offer sewer hookups as well, while others have dump stations.
Site leveling considerations: Some campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. "Our site was only a hundred feet from the lake - gorgeous view!" writes David G. about Loyd Park. Another RVer notes to "bring your chocks" as some sites can be "very unlevel on the hill."
Weather precautions: During questionable weather, Lavonia on Lavon Lake offers horse stables for overnight protection. "We've camped in the site with the horse stables and put the tents with questionable rain flys in the horse stable," notes Brian from COE Lavon Lake Lavonia, providing a practical option for RVers with horses during inclement weather.
