Lake Mineral Wells State Park sits within the Cross Timbers ecosystem, a transitional zone between eastern forests and western grasslands. Located at approximately 850-900 feet elevation, the area experiences hot summers with temperatures reaching 100°F and mild winters with occasional freezing nights. The Plateau campground features lakeside sites that offer direct water access, with the terrain characterized by limestone outcroppings and oak-juniper woodlands.
What to do
Rock climbing opportunities: Penitentiary Hollow at Lake Mineral Wells State Park offers beginner to intermediate climbing routes on limestone formations. "Great rock climbing," notes Jill C., while another climber adds, "Trails are nice but a tad too easy, if looking for a more challenging hike stick to the purple trail. Great beginner level climbing in Penitentiary Hollow MUST HAVE 15-20 FOOT SLINGS ANCHORS ARE MILES APART!!!"
Biking on state trailway: The 20-mile trail system connects the state park to nearby communities. "I rode the trailway out to the Garner Store and Cafe on FM113, but was disappointed to find that they are closed on Sundays. The trailway between the State Park and the Garner way point is an easy crushed gravel ride," shares Susan L.
Wildlife viewing blinds: Set up near feeding areas for optimal wildlife spotting. Chris K. mentions, "Watching the sunset from the viewing blind is mesmerizing. We love the lit fishing piers, after the kids are in bed, can indulge in some 'me' time with a nice cigar and a couple of beers in a folding chair."
What campers like
Water-adjacent camping spots: Many sites at Cross Timbers — Lake Mineral Wells State Park offer immediate lake access. Ana A. reports, "We always prefer to stay at the shelter sites because of the proximity to the lake. We were able to launch our paddleboards from our site (site #5)."
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. LaRee S. at Lake Godstone shares, "Stars are bright out here. Coyotes sang us to sleep."
Wildlife encounters near campsites: The area supports diverse wildlife populations that frequently visit camping areas. According to Alejandro G., "Tent camped at site 104. Good amount of space on this site, but do your research. Some of the sites there are fairly small. Sites are spaced out well. Clean restrooms and showers. Saw a few deer and could hear coyotes in the distance at night."
What you should know
Water conditions: Lake levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting access points. Marianne M. notes, "It had rained a lot before we got there and the lake was floating over the road by the dam drive over, it was rather scary. Lots of trails to walk in area, but because of this massive rain its not possible to walk over by the dam."
Campsite differences: Dinosaur Valley State Park sites vary significantly in size and privacy. "Sites are roomy and clean. Close walk to the bathrooms," reports Buffy M., while Tiffany H. adds, "Our sites were good size and perfect for us. We stayed in 17 and 15. 17 was very large but the table was way away from the pad and people were always walking thru because it was the start of a trail."
Seasonal accessibility: Some primitive sites require crossing water bodies. "Most of the trails, and primitive camp sites, are accessed by fording the river. This can be impossible depending on recent rain," explains Caleb H.
Tips for camping with families
Dinosaur attractions nearby: Fort Worth area offers multiple dinosaur-themed sites within driving distance. "This is a beautiful State Park with miles of trails, year round family activities, and dinosaur foot prints," states Caleb H. at Dinosaur Valley State Park.
Park ranger programs: Educational programs run regularly during peak seasons. Cris B. at Plateau — Lake Mineral Wells State Park shares, "Late in the day we stopped at Lake Mineral Wells State Park, TX. We weren't sure where to go as the gate was unmanned at our arrival. We missed the turn to the campground, but a friendly and helpful Texas State Park Officer directed us how to get there."
Family-friendly water activities: The lake provides safe swimming areas for children. "Lake mineral wells state park was great for biking, hiking, swimming and fishing. We had something fun for all 6 of us. My husband and I stayed in our tent, while rest of family stayed in their RV," says Deborah C.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection guidance: Possum Kingdom State Park offers varied sites with specific considerations. Jim P. advises, "Only complaint is the width of the campsite. I don't know that all were as narrow as ours, but site 20 is a really tight squeeze. Went off the side a couple of times trying to get in. With that narrow width, I was forced to park in overflow parking because with the length of my rig I wasn't able to fit both truck and trailer on concrete and remain out of the road."
Proximity to town amenities: Most campgrounds near Mineral Wells provide easy access to basic supplies. "The campground was beautiful. It was quiet, the bathrooms were clean, and the lake was serene. There are at least 3 campgrounds, including shelters, equestrian, a loop for tenters, and a loop for larger rigs," explains Cris B.
Winter camping considerations: The region offers year-round camping with specific seasonal adjustments. Duane S. notes, "Been to this park a couple of different times it has rock climbing boating, fishing, trails for walking, hiking. We have camped there in February, in June and also October."
