Lake Tawakoni dominates the camping landscape near Lone Oak, Texas, with several campgrounds offering access to its 36,700 acres of water. The lake serves as a major catfish fishery, with some specimens reaching upwards of 70 pounds. Winter temperatures in the area typically range from 30-55°F, while summer temperatures frequently climb above 95°F with high humidity.
What to do
Fishing for trophy catfish: Lake Tawakoni is known for its exceptional catfish fishing. At Lake Tawakoni State Park Campground, visitors can access quality fishing spots. One camper noted, "This lake is well known for its Catfish Fisheries all around the lake which in turn causes the lake to produce very large Catfish. Upwards of 70lbs."
Hiking on nature trails: Several parks offer hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels. Lake Tawakoni State Park features "walking and biking trails galore. None of the trails were too hard for a seven and nine year old but were long enough that they were fun and a good workout."
Wildlife interaction: At Sleep Under The Pecan Trees, guests can experience unique wildlife encounters. "Wild, yet docile horses will approach you. You can pet them and feed them by hand. Tall trees and gorgeous campsites. Donkeys hee-hawing, birds singing, and fire flies glowing."
Horseback riding: Some properties near Lone Oak permit horseback riding or feature equestrian facilities. Sleep Under The Pecan Trees allows visitors to interact directly with horses, with one camper sharing that "horses came into our camp and she was mesmerized by their size and beauty."
What campers like
Lake access: Many campers appreciate the direct water access. At Thousand Trails Lake Tawakoni, "We have a view of the water and wildlife across the road with no sites to impede our view. This campground has several loops that follows the little branches of the lake."
Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds in the area typically offer amenities geared toward families. Thousand Trails Lake Tawakoni "has all the qualities of a COE with proximity to water, trails, bathroom and laundry facilities with the additional bonus of two separate pool areas and indoor facilities for events, games, TV, or community activities."
Fishing opportunities: Anglers particularly enjoy the fishing options. One camper at North Shore Landing mentioned the variety of activities: "boating, fishing (fishing pond and Lake Fork - the lake had been drained for dam repair), birding (saw my first scissor-tailed flycatcher), hunting, biking, hiking/walking."
Fall camping: Several reviewers noted that fall is an ideal time to visit. A Lake Tawakoni State Park camper shared, "I have camped here a couple of times. The campgrounds are very accommodating. Last time I was here it was fall and the leaves had changed and birds were everywhere."
What you should know
Ant problems: Some campers report issues with ants, particularly during warmer months. One Lake Tawakoni State Park visitor warned, "Come prepared to battle the ants. We were overcome in our trailer with thousands of ants the first night, which has never happened before. We got them under control with spray after two days."
Site spacing varies: Site spacing differs significantly between campgrounds. At Stinson RV Park, "All sites are pull-through," while other campgrounds place sites closer together.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby venues or highways. A Stinson RV Park visitor mentioned, "The Tin Cup is a restaurant that's owned by the park and the food is great. The downside is that there's live music on Saturdays. It's loud enough to be annoying but not loud enough to enjoy. It was still playing after 10:30 pm."
Weather extremes: The region experiences significant weather variations. During winter 2021, one camper at Thousand Trails Lake Tawakoni reported, "Biggest ice and snow storm in 70yrs temperatures down to -2 degrees below freezing for several days several inches of snow. All park water lines froze, rolling blackouts by the state."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: When camping during hot summer months, choose campgrounds with swimming facilities. Thousand Trails Lake Tawakoni features "two separate pool areas" that families particularly enjoy.
Fishing for kids: Several parks maintain stocked ponds ideal for young anglers. At Sleep Under The Pecan Trees, one parent shared that his "6 year old daughter for her first camping trip and she loved it... She caught her 1st bass in the pond as well."
Playground options: Assess playground equipment before booking with children. One camper at Wind Point Park noted, "The equipment was the same equipment from when I was a kid and there's really not much more than swings, a slide, merry go round, and a see-saw type thing."
Family bathroom facilities: Some parks offer family-friendly bathroom setups. A Lake Tawakoni State Park visitor highlighted that "in the loop bathroom they have individual rooms that have toilet and shower with a high lock. Really awesome if you are using shower with toddlers."
Tips from RVers
Level site availability: RVers should inquire about site leveling before arrival. At Lake Tawakoni State Park, "Sites are spacious, and for the most part, have concrete slabs that are pretty level and can accommodate any size rig."
Pull-through sites: Several campgrounds offer convenient pull-through sites. At Dallas-Northeast Campground, staff help guests "get settled in a spacious pull through site on level, hard packed, crushed stone."
Hookup options: Full hookups are available at many campgrounds. One visitor to Dallas-Northeast mentioned the sites are "hard packed, crushed stone" with "a really nice area to walk the dogs!"
Winter camping considerations: RVers planning winter visits should prepare for potential utility disruptions. During severe weather at Thousand Trails Lake Tawakoni, "All park water lines froze, rolling blackouts by the state, no propane available anywhere!"
