Camping near McClellan Creek National Grassland
McClellan Creek National Grassland in the Texas panhandle encompasses Lake McClellan Recreation Area with several developed campgrounds. Lake McClellan Campground offers both hookup ($15) and non-hookup sites ($10) with picnic tables and fire rings, while McDowell Campground provides lakeside camping with vault toilets. East Bluff #1 provides more primitive camping options. The area also includes Greenbelt Reservoir Dispersed camping for those seeking free, undeveloped sites. Both tent and RV camping are supported throughout the region, though most developed sites are better suited for RVs.
Access to most camping areas requires good navigation skills as signage is minimal. As one camper noted, "Signs on the interstate direct you to the exit, but after that don't expect any other signage to help you find the campground." Paved roads lead to Lake McClellan and McDowell campgrounds, while East Bluff access requires travel on gravel roads. The climate features hot summers and cold winters, with strong winds common throughout the year. Stay limits are typically 14 days, and an honor system payment method is used at most campgrounds. Visitors should note that Lake McClellan itself is often dry, with several reviews mentioning "the lake is dried up" - affecting the camping experience.
The mixed-use campgrounds around Lake McClellan serve diverse recreational interests. ATV riders typically congregate in designated camping areas, while those seeking quieter experiences can find more secluded sites in the wooded sections. "This campground was on a large recreation area that included some ATV trails, which was pretty cool! There were several different camping areas that you could choose from," explained one visitor. Amenities vary widely between campgrounds - Lake McClellan Campground offers flush toilets and hot showers, while others have only vault toilets or pit toilets. Sites are generally level, and many provide shade. The campground host presence at Lake McClellan adds security, though facilities sometimes need better maintenance. Campers consistently praise the peaceful atmosphere and reasonable prices despite the dry lake conditions.
