Camping near Navarro Mills Lake

Camping near Navarro Mills Lake, Texas includes several U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds and recreational areas situated around the 5,070-acre reservoir. Liberty Hill Park Campground, Wolf Creek, Oak Park, and Pecan Point Park provide established camping options with varying levels of amenities. Located approximately 60 miles south of Dallas and 40 miles east of Waco, Navarro Mills Lake is known for excellent crappie fishing and water recreation opportunities. The lake was created in 1963 when the Corps of Engineers dammed the Richland Creek, primarily for flood control and conservation purposes.

Most campgrounds at Navarro Mills Lake are open year-round, though Wolf Creek operates seasonally from early April through late September. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winters are generally mild. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak fishing seasons and holiday weekends. Cell service varies throughout the area, with most campgrounds reporting 1-2 bars of coverage for major carriers. Fire restrictions may be implemented during drought conditions, which are common in late summer. Many sites accommodate both RVs and tents, with several campgrounds offering 50-amp electrical hookups for larger rigs.

The camping experience varies significantly between locations around the lake. Liberty Hill Park is noted for its covered fishing barge and lake access, though campers should be prepared for Argentine ants, which can be problematic according to reviews. Oak Park features shaded sites in a large oak tree grove with good dark sky viewing opportunities. American RV Park in nearby Corsicana offers a more urban camping experience for those needing proximity to town services. Visitors seeking additional outdoor experiences can explore Fort Parker State Park, located about 30 miles south near Mexia, which offers historical attractions alongside camping facilities built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

Best Camping Sites Near Navarro Mills Lake (124)

    1. Liberty Hill Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    Bardwell, TX
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 578-1431

    $18 - $95 / night

    "Lake Navarro Mills is well know as the best Crappie fishing lake in Texas."

    "No trails to hike on but plenty of good roads to walk. Very peaceful!"

    2. Wolf Creek - Navarro Mills Reservoir

    5 Reviews
    Navarro Mills Lake, TX
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 578-1431

    "This is a great little lake and campground, especially for fishing and boating. The campground offers nice, secluded campsites with full hook-ups. They each have a table & fire pit."

    "Love it all around, it's beautiful, great fishing, camping, nice people, all around a great place. Liberty Hill is the only park we will go to."

    3. Oak Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    Navarro Mills Lake, TX
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 578-1431

    4. COE Navarro Mills Reservoir Oak Park

    3 Reviews
    Bardwell, TX
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 578-1431

    $30 - $95 / night

    "The sites can be kinda off level but with the lake so close who cares! This lake is well know as a great Crappie lake! I have videos of my last visit on my YouTube...DudeRV,com"

    "This park is a quiet park with well separated spaces and lots of lake access. Fishing is the prevalent activity here and there is a nice pier for just that."

    5. American RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Navarro Mills Lake, TX
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (903) 872-0233

    $45 - $250 / night

    6. Pecan Point Park Campground

    1 Review
    Bardwell, TX
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 578-1431

    $18 - $30 / night

    7. COE Bardwell Lake Mott Park

    5 Reviews
    Bardwell, TX
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (972) 875-5711

    $5 - $80 / night

    "It is a bit neglected but still pretty awesome with its spacious sites and gorgeous views of Bardwell Lake. Our site #29 was nice and shady and panoramic view of lake."

    "Mott park is a fantastic campground for lake activities! At the time of my visit the facilities were clean. The park was well cared for and the sites were all pretty good."

    8. Highview Park

    6 Reviews
    Bardwell, TX
    21 miles
    +1 (972) 875-5711

    "Lots of room to walk the dog. Great atmosphere"

    "Near Ennis, TX. Convenience stores, etc 4-6 miles away. Covered picnic table. Large combined family (private) restroom / shower."

    9. Fort Parker State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Mexia, TX
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 562-5751

    $12 - $600 / night

    "In early March of 2020, right at the beginning of the Covid 19 Pandimic, I had the opportunity to visit Fort Parker State Park is located next to the town of Mexia Texas and sits on the banks of Fort Parker"

    "Even rented a canoe and paddled across the lake to the river. Park staff were friendly and helpful. Some primitive tent sites are right on the edge of the lake and after a big rain were very swampy."

    10. High View

    5 Reviews
    Bardwell, TX
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (972) 875-5711

    $5 - $50 / night

    "We stayed in campsite 29 which is kind of elevated a bit and we had a great view of the lake. Even tho it rained quite a bit we still enjoyed ourselves."

    "Very pretty lake views and tons of grass. My dog loved going for runs through the grass (while on her leash).

    They had some showers and toilets working again when I went. Hot water was very nice!"

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Recent Reviews near Navarro Mills Lake

468 Reviews of 124 Navarro Mills Lake Campgrounds


  • Keri S.
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Midway

    Showers & fishing

    They are a little bit strict here but there are friendly and the showers are always clean and fishing is good.

  • J
    Aug. 18, 2025

    North Crest RV Park

    Great place

    We stayed there for 3 nights. The park is run by Emily and her father. Emily is friendly and there to make sure you have a nice stay. The park is filled with tall shade trees, nice to have in the summer heat. Located just off I-35 about 6 miles north of Baylor University.

  • Zoey T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Cedar Creek Park Campground

    Great space - hard to find

    We love this spot. Definitely ignore google to get here though… just follow the road to the end (no turning off) there are campsites to your right and left once you reach the water. At least 27 of them. Quiet. Spaced out. Most had grill and water access and the lake is a super clean rock bottom one. Super peaceful.

  • Morgan B.
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Steele Creek Park Campground

    free & full of nature - wonderful for nomads!

    We enjoyed this free campsite as we were making our way down to San Antonio, Texas. It had a water spicket, which was perfect for nomad living. We were able to wash our hair, cookware, rinse off, and enjoy free potable water. The small things, right? 

    The site we choose was private and in close walking distance to pit toilets. It has a small trail in the back, which led to the small lake. The dogs enjoyed being off-leash and the trees surrounding us was peaceful. The fire pit was wonderful and I can see why big groups would enjoy staying here!

    There was some fast-food trash around the campsite, but we did not mind picking it up. Reminder: leave it better than you found it. Overall: wonderful experience and perfectly comfortable free campsite for nomads. 

    Our Google Maps GPS was giving us issues on the entrance location of this site, since it is tucked away behind neighborhoods, so we relied on the maps and roads to lead us there.

  • Bobbie S.
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Camp Fimfo Waco

    Not a long term place

    My husband travels for work. We stayed here nine months out of the 11 months in Tx. We endured the high cost (1,200 per month) because the rate drops in the winter. They have many rules that they enforce when and to whom they feel like enforcing them to. My site was always tidy (no pets or children) but was informed that I would be fined 40 dollars (repeatedly) for having a small outside fridge until it was removed. Most parks do not allow mini fridges outside (some more strict than others). I had this fridge for NINE months, three other people had one as well. They did not get spoken to. This was the last straw, why we moved. Also, after nine months, they no longer allowed ANY mail to be delivered there. Prior to the fridge: They had an online issue and rented our spot and told us we had to move for a week. We stayed at the spot we moved to until they decided that this spot was not available for the summer to a full time renter. We move again. I saw three copperhead snakes while there. The issue, they do not mow regularly! My neighbor bought a push mower so his dog could go out and he could see snakes. The laundry rooms were absolutely disgusting and broken most of the time (I found a local laundry mat). They got new machines and they were still breaking down and very dirty. Dirty showers. Were told no outside wood. Have to purchase it from the store on site. The store is closed all week. Only open 3 days (winter, when you have fires), Fri, Sat & Sun. Five mile an hour speed limit, staff doses 20+ on golf carts. The road noise was incredibly loud for how far from the road the park is. The handful of lovely staff members was the only reason we stayed as long as we did.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 6, 2025

    Shiloh on the Lake

    Great Weekend

    We stayed for the Fourth of July weekend. It was great! Full hookups large concrete pad. Perfection!

  • TammyP The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 24, 2025

    Soldier’s Bluff

    Nice Lake view

    I found this small camping site and it’s small but has good sites and nice lake view. Can sit by lake and have covered picnic tables. The camp sites are not covered but has enough tree coverage to make it shaded and I had pretty good wind to stay cool in the 93 degree heat. Has tent camping, and two RV slots and one truck stop which I used, it did need mowed when I was there but it was not to bad great view of the dam,

  • tom H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 16, 2025

    North Crest RV Park

    Great hospitality and easy access

    We were looking for a simple place to stop overnight after driving all day toward Brownsville. One phone call and everything was handled by Emily - she even met us right at the gate and guided us to our spot. Sites are level, wide, and even shaded. We arrived around 9pm and departed 10 hours later - so level we didn’t even have to unhook. Very reasonable $55 for full hookups and a convenient place to spend the night.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 8, 2025

    North Crest RV Park

    Very nice, clean and friendly owners.

    The park is quiet and clean. The bathhouse is exceptionally clean. The camper pads are level.


Guide to Navarro Mills Lake

Camping near Navarro Mills Lake, Texas, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

  • Fishing: The lake is a popular spot for anglers. One camper mentioned, “This is a fantastic campground for lake activities!” at Mott Park.
  • Hiking: Trails around the area provide great opportunities for hiking. A visitor at Fort Parker State Park Campground said, “The nature and hiking in this park was our favorite part.”
  • Canoeing: Rent a canoe and explore the lake. A camper shared, “We rented a canoe and paddled across the lake to the river” at Fort Parker State Park Campground.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the parks. One reviewer at North Crest RV Park said, “The bathhouse is amazing with two full baths in total privacy.”
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at Liberty Hill Park Campground noted, “The price was great with a NP Access pass. Quiet and very family friendly.”
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the spaciousness of the sites. A review for Northside RV Resort highlighted, “HUGE pull-through spaces with picnic tables.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A camper at Tradinghouse Lake Park Camping pointed out, “No bathrooms outside the park that’s close by. No potable water.”
  • Noise Levels: If you're sensitive to noise, be aware that some parks are near highways. A visitor at Blue Sky I-35 RV Park mentioned, “The noise from the highway does not belong there.”
  • Reservation Policies: Always check the reservation policies. A camper at Northside RV Resort had a positive experience but noted, “The park is gated and secure.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for parks with playgrounds. A reviewer at Liberty Hill Park Campground mentioned, “The playground is nicer than expected.”
  • Safety: Many parks have regular patrols. A camper at High View felt secure, stating, “Local sheriff’s dept and park ranger made several trips through the park.”
  • Plan for Meals: Bring food or check for nearby markets. A visitor at American RV Park noted, “Lots of restaurant locations to choose from within a short drive from the park.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A camper at North Crest RV Park appreciated, “Water pressure was good but a little lower one morning when the irrigation system was running.”
  • Bring Bug Spray: Some areas can have bugs, especially near water. A visitor at Liberty Hill Park Campground advised, “Bring bug spray, buy your firewood in Corsicana or Waco.”
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Don’t forget to check out local attractions. A camper at The Range Vintage Trailer Resort mentioned, “It is what I had in mind when I dreamed of getting an Airstream.”

Camping near Navarro Mills Lake, Texas, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking a peaceful retreat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the designated camping areas at Navarro Mills Lake?

Navarro Mills Lake offers several designated camping areas spread around the reservoir. Liberty Hill Park Campground is a popular option known for its beautiful setting and access to the lake's excellent crappie fishing. Other camping options include Wolf Creek - Navarro Mills Reservoir, which provides boat-in, drive-in, and walk-in access with reservable sites. Additional designated camping areas include Oak Park near Purdon and Pecan Point Park, both offering water access and camping amenities along different parts of the reservoir.

What facilities and amenities are available at Navarro Mills Lake campgrounds?

Campgrounds at Navarro Mills Lake typically offer essential amenities for a comfortable stay. Oak Park Campground provides reservable sites with water hookups, toilet facilities, and sites surrounded by crushed granite in a shaded setting. Pecan Point Park Campground offers similar amenities along with big-rig-friendly sites. Most campgrounds around the lake include basic facilities such as potable water, restrooms, and some have shaded sites. The lake itself is renowned for fishing, particularly crappie fishing, making it a popular destination for anglers.

Is a reservation required for camping at Navarro Mills State Park?

Yes, reservations are recommended for camping at Navarro Mills Lake, especially during peak seasons and weekends. Most camping areas like Steele Creek Park Campground and other Corps of Engineers managed sites at Navarro Mills are reservable. Similar to nearby Lake Whitney State Park Campground, where campers make reservations months in advance, it's advisable to book your Navarro Mills campsite well ahead of time. Reservations can typically be made through the managing agency's website or reservation system.