Abilene State Park is located in Tuscola, Texas, approximately 62 miles from Robert Lee. The park spans 529 acres at an elevation of 1,982 feet, featuring rolling hills with mesquite and oak trees that provide moderate shade for campers. Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F, making the park's swimming pool a popular attraction during hot months.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The park maintains a dedicated bird blind where visitors can observe native Texas birds. According to Michael C., "Excellent campground/state park. Lots of trees, trails and roads. Lots of deer and wildlife."
Geocaching adventures: Goodfellow AFB Recreation Area offers opportunities for geocaching enthusiasts. A visitor noted, "I stayed two nights at this campground and found it to be really nice and located on Lake Nasworthy. During the summer months they rent boats and have a little store on site."
Hiking options: Multiple trail systems range from easy to moderate difficulty levels, with the main loop extending 3.5 miles around the park. One camper shared, "There's a decent 3.5 mile hike/bike trail around the lake and back," making it suitable for both hikers and cyclists.
Historical exploration: Examine the Civilian Conservation Corps structures built in the 1930s that showcase historical architecture. "Interesting CCC structures from the 30's," notes Michael C., highlighting these preserved examples of Depression-era craftsmanship.
What campers like
Quiet weekday camping: Abilene State Park Campground tends to have fewer visitors during weekdays, providing a more peaceful experience. As Carlee S. mentions, "Very quiet little place, the lot had plenty of space to park and put up all our gear. Highly recommend for anyone looking for somewhere cheap and easy to get to for a night!"
Diverse accommodation options: Beyond traditional camping, glamping near Robert Lee, Texas includes several accommodation types. Gretchen N. notes, "There's not much to the park, but its claim to fame is that there are yurts! Stay in one of the canvas tents for the night or pick a tent spot at Cedar Grove to be centrally located."
Swimming facilities: During summer months, the pool provides relief from Texas heat. Amie M. states, "The playground isn't very good but you are 20 minutes from Abilene with oodles of great parks and a small zoo."
Astronomy opportunities: The limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions after sunset. "We met with 18 degree temps (Feb) and our truck wouldn't start the next morning. The park staff contacted the BEST repair shop in Abilene for us, and they fixed us right up," shares Dennis P., highlighting the helpful staff and winter camping experience.
What you should know
Temperature considerations: Summer heat can be intense even in glamping accommodations with cooling systems. Ann P. recalls, "Even with the AC on it was well over 90° in the yurt, which we weren't thrilled about, especially since we had an elderly family member with some health issues in our group."
Campsite layout changes: San Angelo KOA has undergone recent improvements. One visitor noted, "Parking is level raked gravel but a little close together. There is a municipal airport close by but doesn't seem to be a lot of planes passing over."
Seasonal facilities: Some amenities operate seasonally, particularly the swimming pool. "There is a recreation area nearby with a playground and a swimming pool. Due to the time of year, the pool was not yet open," explains Nomadic L.
Winter preparedness: Temperatures can drop dramatically in winter months, sometimes below freezing. Dennis P. shares his experience: "We met with 18 degree temps (Feb) and our truck wouldn't start the next morning."
Tips for camping with families
Shower facilities for children: Abilene State Park Campground offers accessible shower options that work well for families with young children. Amie M. shares, "The real hidden gem was in the bathroom by the yurts. They have a disabled shower. So it's within reach and the showerhead is lower. Awesome to use to clean my toddler without getting drenched."
Safety considerations: The parks maintain good security levels for families with children. "Felt very safe, even walking around past dark. We saw feral hogs a few times at dusk. Really loved it," notes Amie M. about her family's 8-day tent camping experience.
Nearby attractions: When staying at glamping accommodations near Robert Lee, families can take advantage of nearby city attractions. "You are 20 minutes from Abilene with oodles of great parks and a small zoo," mentions Amie M., providing options for day trips during longer stays.
Wildlife encounters: Children may enjoy wildlife sightings, but parents should maintain awareness. "We saw feral hogs a few times at dusk," notes one camper, indicating the importance of wildlife awareness during evening hours.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Red Arroyo Campground offers various RV sites, but requires careful navigation. "Very clear instructions on the voicemail for after hours check in. Signs directing you to the campsites were minimal (ex: instead of 'red arroyo campsites 1-11' it said 'trailer 1-11,'" explains tracie, highlighting the importance of understanding campground layout.
Loop configuration: RVers should note the specific arrangement of camping loops and hookup availability. Butch K. explains, "When I got there, I realized they had reconfigured what was 32 separate sites with their own pedestal to 16 sites with a pair of pedestals each, nicely spread out."
Hookup variations: Different sites offer varied hookup configurations. Jackie R. notes, "Sites are electric and have water and 50/30 but no sewer. There's a simple dump station," providing important information for RVers planning waste management.
Seasonal occupancy patterns: RV campers will find varying levels of privacy depending on season and day of week. "Beside me there was one or two other campers the whole time I was there weather got real cold, 16°," shares Butch K. about winter camping conditions.
