Ray Roberts Lake State Park offers equestrian trails with designated sites for horse owners within an hour's drive of McKinney. The park sits at an elevation of approximately 645 feet and experiences hot summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 95°F. Water levels at nearby lakes fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access for horseback riding activities and primitive camping.
What to do
Trail riding at Isle du Bois: Explore equestrian trails at Ray Roberts Lake State Park where riders can enjoy lake views during cooler months. "Lots of hiking and biking trails, with clean restrooms! Deer will approach your campsite and you're likely to see all kinds of wildlife," reports Tony C.
Kayaking from Johnson Branch: Launch watercraft from Johnson Branch Campsites where lake access points provide easy entry. "Lots of hiking trails. You really can't go wrong with Johnson Branch on Lake Ray Roberts," notes Chris P. The shoreline offers multiple coves suitable for fishing.
Swimming at Joe Pool Lake: Cool off during hot Texas days at Loyd Park's designated swimming area. "They have a big beach, park area to enjoy. Staff is friendly," writes TJ & Laura S. The sand beach provides a clean alternative to muddy shorelines at other regional lakes.
What campers like
Spacious sites: East Fork Park Campground offers considerable distance between camping spots. "The sites are well spaced and are 'mostly' paved with aging asphalt," notes Ray & Terri F. This arrangement provides privacy while maintaining access to shared amenities.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours provide optimal opportunities to spot native wildlife at Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch. "A very nice state park, about an hour northwest of Dallas... Deer will approach your campsite and you're likely to see all kinds of wildlife," shares Tony C.
Lake views: Nearly all campsites at COE Lavon Lake Lavonia provide water views with unobstructed sightlines. "Wide open spaces and beautiful lake views. The sites are far apart and lots of green space," reports Jess W. The lake proximity creates cooling breezes during summer evenings.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding: Water levels at Pilot Knoll Park Campground fluctuate throughout the year, affecting campsite availability. "Calm water, large lot land area and clean, easy access to walk right into the lake to swim, and space to dock your boat make the cove side of the park an excellent score," explains Monica C.
Bathroom facilities: Quality and availability of restrooms vary significantly between parks. "The bathrooms were clean and campsites, large and private," reports Eric R. about Isle du Bois, while some primitive equestrian camping areas offer limited facilities or composting toilets only.
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping areas require advance booking, especially during spring and fall peak seasons. Front gates at COE Lavon Lake Lavonia "don't open til 10am every morning so can't get back in if you go get breakfast," warns Natalie S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Loyd Park provides recreational facilities suitable for children of various ages. "There are several playground areas central to the various campgrounds with easy access for your family. Showers and restrooms are close by the playgrounds as well," explains Matt S.
Footwear precautions: Pack closed-toe shoes for areas near lakeshores. "Nice place and a beautiful scenic drive. Good place to hike and swim, sites are decent and give a fair amount of space in between. Bring shoes though! Lots of little prickers in the grass down by the lake," advises K7 at Isle du Bois.
Weekday visits: For quieter equestrian camping near McKinney, avoid weekend crowds. "I've been coming to this state park for over 20 years. It's very well kept, you see deer every trip, it's just very busy... It's not a well kept secret anymore," shares Kerry C. about Johnson Branch.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: When camping with horses near McKinney, choose sites with adequate space for vehicles and trailers. "The temperature difference is quite noticeable the closer you are to the breeze coming off the water. There is plenty of trees to provide shade, but not so many to block your view of the water," observes Monica C. at Pilot Knoll Park.
Road condition awareness: Some access roads and campground surfaces present challenges for larger rigs. "View was great and camp hosts were very friendly but the roads are horrible! The sites weren't bad and ours was pretty level," reports Mia D. about East Fork Park Campground.
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven pads at several campgrounds. "Pavement is old and a little rough, but workable. The park host is extremely nice and helpful," explains Jess W. about COE Lavon Lake Lavonia. Many sites require substantial leveling blocks or jacks.
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