Dispersed camping near Palo Pinto, Texas centers around Possum Kingdom Lake, a 16,700-acre reservoir with limestone cliffs and clear blue waters. The Brazos River Authority maintains several free public use areas with primitive camping options spread around the 310-mile shoreline. Most locations lack utility hookups, and the terrain consists primarily of open grassy areas with limited natural shade and occasional rocky sections.
What to do
Fishing from shore: At Hunter Park, anglers can access active fishing spots directly from the camping area. "If you're a fisher, this is the place to be! The fish are active," reports a camper named Sav. The park features a dedicated fishing pier that attracts both overnight campers and day visitors.
Boat launching: Multiple camping areas provide boat ramp access for watercraft. "Bug Beach has tent camping without designated sites, a boat ramp and roped of swimming area," explains Megan E. Boaters should note that weekend traffic at boat ramps increases substantially during summer months.
Wildlife observation: Several camping areas offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Bug Beach BRA #5, one camper mentioned having "the place to ourselves, with the exception of a herd of deer late afternoon." Early morning and dusk provide the best wildlife viewing times.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Campers consistently praise the proximity to water at Possum Kingdom Lake BRA. One visitor notes, "Tent camping areas in all 5 with shelters, grill, and picnic tables, many waterside." These waterside spots allow for immediate lake access without needing to pack up gear.
Spacious camping areas: Despite seasonal crowds, most camping areas provide ample room. According to Alejandro G., Hunter Park offers "free camping not designated camp sites. Just first come first served camp where you want." This flexibility allows larger groups to cluster together or families to find more isolated spots.
Clean facilities: Several reviews mention the maintenance of the camping areas. One visitor to Bug Beach stated it was "Beautiful, off the beaten track, free, lots of trails and pull off areas to over night." Another camper commented on "exceptionally clean campground facilities" at Possum Kingdom Lake.
What you should know
Grass burr hazards: Multiple campers warn about sharp grass burrs at certain sites. One camper at BRA#1 Possum Kingdom Lake noted you can "tent on the grass in many places," but others warn about difficulty with these plants. Jen M. cautions about "dense razor sharp Grass burrs. Within minutes my tent, pets, shoes and tires were covered and difficult to remove."
Limited privacy: The open layout at most sites means little separation between camping areas. One camper at Hunter Park described the situation as "no privacy and right on top of each other," while another mentioned challenges with "constantly traffic and people listening to ur conversations."
Seasonal facility closures: Bathroom buildings often close during winter months. Alternative facilities may be provided, as noted by a camper: "The bathrooms were closed but they supplied a porta potty." Visitors should come prepared with their own sanitation supplies, especially in off-peak seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Supply proximity: Families benefit from the short distance to conveniences near the camping areas. One visitor pointed out, "The nearest gas station is only about two minutes away. Very connected to civilization." This allows for quick supply runs without lengthy travel.
Swimming areas: Designated swimming zones provide safer water access for children. Some camping areas feature "roped of swimming area" according to reviews, creating defined spaces away from boating traffic.
Shade considerations: Multiple reviews mention the lack of natural shade. A camper at Hunter Park advises: "If you are car camping or tent camping, be wary about the fact that there will be little to no shade." Families should bring canopies or shade structures, particularly during summer months when temperatures frequently exceed 90°F.
Tips from RVers
Varied parking options: Different camping areas offer distinct RV setups. At Possum Kingdom Lake BRA, "Public Area 4 and 6 have RV pads with shelters, grill, and picnic tables, and many are waterside. Public Area 5 has grass pull thru RV parking." These options accommodate different RV sizes and preferences.
Loop design: Hunter Park features a convenient traffic pattern for larger vehicles. According to one RVer, "Plenty of space for a big rig, and the whole thing is designed in a loop, so no backing out necessary! Plus all driving areas to and from the campsite, as well as in it, are paved."
Seasonal fee consideration: While most primitive camping near Palo Pinto remains free year-round, some RV-specific sites may have seasonal charges. One camper noted that certain areas "do charge $10 to use in the Summer" for RV pads, while remaining free during other seasons.
