Free dispersed camping options around Navarro Mills Lake provide access to outdoor recreation at several Texas public use areas. These primitive camping sites vary in amenities and accessibility depending on location, with most areas remaining open year-round. Local parks maintain different rules regarding vehicle parking, campfires, and overnight stays that visitors should understand before arrival.
What to do
Fishing at lakeside spots: Limestone Lake Park offers direct access to prime fishing locations where campers report seeing "fish in the lake, one foot long dead floating bass was right in front of me. Plenty of smaller fish dancing on the water." The park includes several small docks for casting.
Riverside camping: Chisholm Trail Park provides camping right along the water with excellent fishing opportunities. According to visitor Kelsi W., you can "fall asleep to the sound of crickets and jumping fish, occasional coyote howls." Each site features its own ramada and picnic table, with enough separation between campers to feel relatively isolated.
Boat access: Several areas around Navarro Mills Lake accommodate boaters with launch points near camping areas. At Limestone Lake Park, one visitor noted it's a "great spot for boating & fishing too," making it suitable for those planning water activities during their stay.
What campers like
Individual shelters: At Chisholm Trail Park, "each spot has its own Ramada and picnic table," providing shade and comfortable seating areas. These individual shelters make the primitive camping experience more comfortable during hot Texas days.
Quiet weekday camping: Primitive areas around the lake often have lower occupancy during weekdays. One camper at Limestone Lake Park reported: "I had a lakeside spot and had the place all to myself on a weekday. This place seems pretty remote, so mostly local folks would be my guess."
Shaded sites: Soldier's Bluff provides natural cover for tent campers. According to Sean B., the "campground is grassy and covered with shade tree canopies," though he notes that "campsites can be quite close together, offering little privacy." This shade provides critical relief during summer camping trips.
What you should know
Access challenges: Finding the correct entrance to some areas requires specific directions. For Limestone Lake Park, Jared warns: "if you use Get Directions & Google Maps on this page, it likely will route you to the wrong location. The correct access point is from the SouthEast, via the town of Marquez."
Campfire restrictions: Not all primitive camping areas around Navarro Mills Lake permit fires. Erik I. notes about Limestone Lake Park: "They don't allow campfires. As in, none. There are no fire rings. That right there takes it off the list for me."
Weather impacts: Lake level changes affect camping conditions. At Soldier's Bluff, "with rain, the park does become flooded, especially encroaching the day use picnic areas," according to one reviewer. Seasonal planning should account for lake levels and potential flooding.
Tips for camping with families
Boat-in access options: Multiple camping areas around the lake provide boat-in camping possibilities, creating adventure opportunities for families with watercraft. Sebastian found Limestone Lake Park "was one of my favorite places I've stayed at in Texas so far" and "would definitely return again with better preparation and additional family members and friends."
Recreational activities: Chisholm Trail Park offers varied activities beyond camping. Alejandro G. describes it as an "amazing place if you enjoy anything from fishing, hiking, picnics, volleyball and nature," making it suitable for families seeking multiple recreation options.
Bug preparation: Pack appropriate insect repellent for overnight stays. Greg C. advises campers at Limestone Lake Park to "be prepared for a lot of bugs," particularly during warmer months when insects are most active around the water.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup locations: RV camping near Navarro Mills Lake is primarily primitive without standard hookups. Jessica C. notes that at Soldier's Bluff, "if you use solar to boondock, be aware that many of the sites are full shade," which impacts solar panel efficiency.
Arrival timing considerations: Vehicle access may be restricted after certain hours at some locations. One camper at Soldier's Bluff advises: "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."
Space limitations: RV camping options are restricted at some locations. At Soldier's Bluff, TammyP observed there are "tent camping, and two RV slots and one truck stop which I used," indicating the limited availability for larger vehicles at this free camping location.
