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

    $28 - $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

474 Reviews of 124 Navarro Mills Lake Campgrounds


  • P
    Oct. 20, 2025

    North Crest RV Park

    Spacious lots; quiet; fabulous hosts!

    This is a five star stop for sure!  It is right off of I-35, so there is highway traffic noise but it is forgivable.  The hosts were so friendly, and Ranger the RV resort boss poodle was awesome!  My Australian Shepherd loved him.  By-pass the massive nearby RV park in favor of this gem if you want to have an RV camping experience that we all signed up for when we purchased our rigs!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Waco Creekside Resort

    Relaxing Stay

    We had a wonderful stay at Waco Creekside Resort! Our pull-through site was spacious, level, and easy to access—perfect for our setup. The grounds are beautifully maintained with plenty of room to relax. The amenities were top-notch, and the staff went above and beyond to make sure everything was just right. We’ll definitely be back!

  • First Name L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Soldier’s Bluff

    Nice free camping near the lake

    Just on the back of the spillway to the dam. To get your vehicle in you must arrive before 10:00 p.m. otherwise, you just park on the outside and walk your stuff in, then wait till the morning. Nice cliffs, nice bathrooms, some highway noise.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 18, 2025

    North Crest RV Park

    Emily's Shady Grove

    It's a great place to stop and spend the night or spend the day !! This family owned place is covered with trees and is very shady! Emily (Owner) goes over and above to meet your needs during your stay!!!! We stayed two separate nights because we enjoyed it here !!!

  • aThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Loyd Park

    Quiet and Serene

    We stayed here for four nights and it was a welcome retreat after staying in mini RV parks. Our spot was number 184. Not right on the water, but we can see the water from one of our windows. If we came back here again and we couldn’t get right on the water. I would choose a site with more shade like site number 190 has lots of shade.We’re here in October so it’s pretty warm. The hookups work well and the place is very well-maintained. I haven’t tried the public restrooms as our RV restroom is fine. I would definitely come back here again.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Cedar Hill State Park Campground

    Not too impressed

    We arrived after hours after calling and instructed to just go to our campsite. The park had absolutely no signs indicating where the campground is. We were surprised to find a very sloping site with the cement bumpers missing rebar and very unsafe. No after hours phone number and no campground host. Is this any way to run a campground? We flagged down another camper who indicated that three sites were available when he checked in a couple of hours earlier. This is the first time that we encountered something like this in our years of camping. No one here to answer questions….sites in terrible disrepair still being represented as safe. We had to replace in the hopes that someone would not arrive to claim their site. In the morning we experienced pounding on our door to be challenged by armed…yes, they had guns, officers questioning why we were “squatting” Needless to say this campground is very disorganized and needs an after hours emergency phone number, campground host, safety inspections, as well as a manager who cares.

  • 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.


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.