Cedar Creek Reservoir provides the backdrop for several campgrounds near Mabank, Texas, with the 32,000-acre lake offering water recreation opportunities throughout the year. Camping locations range from 1,200 to 1,400 feet in elevation across the region, with sites typically spaced 20-30 feet apart at most established facilities. Several campgrounds feature direct lake access with boat ramps, fishing piers, and designated swimming areas.
What to do
Water recreation at Cedar Creek Reservoir: Purtis Creek State Park Campground offers fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on its small lake. According to camper Courtney K., "Beautiful, great fishing, great hiking, fabulous for kids, wonderful kayaking. We had a blast... the bathrooms were a bit far from the campsite so definitely check your spot first if you don't have an rv."
Hiking trails: Multiple parks offer maintained trail systems. At Purtis Creek State Park, one reviewer noted, "There are a couple of loops at one and two miles. I walked the entire stretch of around 6 miles." Another visitor, Coty S., mentioned, "We had a great hike and enjoyed the clean park! Prices are reasonable and we definitely be back!"
Unique animal interactions: Llamaland Ranch offers a distinctive camping experience with llama encounters. Taylor R. shared, "The owners were very kind and responsive to our needs. They kindly welcomed us and were eager to let my kids feed the llamas! They even left bread for us at the campsite to line the fence with for the llamas, which my 3 year old son loved."
Waterpark access: Coal Mine Ranch RV Park features a water park within the camping facility. Kayla L. mentioned, "The water park kept my kids happy the entire weekend. Only drawback was not open past 5 pm but I understand why (they do private parties). Plenty activities for kids."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Campers frequently mention site size as a positive feature. At Purtis Creek State Park Campground, Wesley D. shared, "Very big camping spots. Will definitely come back!" Another reviewer, Carrie I., commented on the "super nice little state park. Really secluded sites with plenty of room."
Shaded areas: Trees provide welcome relief from Texas heat. Brett B. described Shiloh on the Lake as having "a great, non-parking lot style campground. Every site is covered with trees, and though they are a bit close together you feel connected with nature."
Concrete pads at select sites: Some campgrounds offer upgraded pad surfaces. Angela R. noted about Shiloh on the Lake, "We stayed for the Fourth of July weekend. It was great! Full hookups large concrete pad. Perfection!"
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are highly valued. Darlene E. mentioned about Purtis Creek, "The campsites are very clean, as are the bathrooms. The hiking trails are well maintained."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat and humidity affect camping comfort from June through September, with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F. Spring brings occasional thunderstorms that can impact site conditions, particularly at properties with sand or gravel pads.
Site surface variations: Texan RV Park & Campus features gravel sites with concrete pads, while other campgrounds have different surfaces. According to George B., "The sites are gravel and close together with a small concrete pad and picnic table next to each pad."
Road noise: Several campgrounds experience highway noise due to proximity to major roads. One camper at Purtis Creek State Park noted, "The only real drawback is how close it is to the main roads. Car noise can be heard at almost all hours."
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking, especially during weekends and summer months. Canton I-20 RV Park receives positive reviews for accessibility, with Janet S. commenting, "No complaints, best park I've seen in this area. Very well maintained, large spaces, picnic tables, nice clean pool."
Tips for camping with families
Activities for children: Several parks offer kid-focused amenities. At Coal Mine Ranch RV Park, Kayla L. shared, "My kids are already asking when we are coming back. The owners and staff are super friendly. They set up a movie night on the projector."
Swimming areas: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming spots. Brett B. mentioned that Shiloh on the Lake has "a nice designated swimming area in the lake, and a fishing pier."
Educational experiences: Llamaland Ranch offers unique animal interactions. Jennifer S. noted, "This is a private campsite where you can feed and camp with llamas. There are about 40 llamas to enjoy."
Bathroom accessibility: Check the location of facilities relative to your site. At Purtis Creek, one camper advised, "The bathrooms were a bit far from the campsite so definitely check your spot first if you don't have an rv."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most developed campgrounds offer full hookups, but capabilities vary. At Chuck's RV Resort, Angela R. noted, "The roads and pads are all concrete with full hookups. The park is well maintained, aesthetically pleasing, and everyone is very nice."
Site spacing: RV sites range from spacious to compact. Canton I-20 RV Park received praise from rspillers84 who said, "The sites are large, easy to pull into, and each one has a picnic table which makes it nice to sit outside."
Arrival considerations: When arriving after dark, look for parks with staff assistance. At Texas Log Cabin RV Park, Billy N. shared, "We arrived after dark and the owner Barb waited for us and showed us to our camp site. She even helped us back in and made sure we were good for the night."
Educational opportunities: Texan RV Park & Campus hosts RV technician classes. Donald B. mentioned, "If you're full timing, like me, you should, at a minimum take the NRVTAs basic class."
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