Equestrian camping near Rockwall, Texas offers access to lakeside trails and spacious campsites within a reasonable driving distance. Located in the blackland prairie ecoregion, the area features gently rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 400 to 600 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through September, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to Do
Trail riding along lakeshores: Lake Lavon provides scenic riding opportunities with multiple access points. At East Fork Park Campground, riders can enjoy lakefront views. "There is plenty of space between sites, but no trees so not a lot of privacy. Probably wouldn't stay again," notes Mia D., highlighting the open terrain ideal for spotting your horses from camp.
Fishing from shorelines: Many campgrounds offer bank fishing access without needing a boat. "Sites 119-122 (maybe 123) are right on the lake so you can see ducks and do some bank fishing without needing to go anywhere," writes Christopher L. about the primitive camping area at Isle du Bois Campsites.
Swimming at designated beaches: Several parks maintain swimming areas with varying amenities. Christina H. mentions, "There was a nice swim area and overall the campground was clean and quiet" at East Fork Park Campground, making it suitable for cooling off after trail rides.
What Campers Like
Spacious sites: Many equestrian-friendly campgrounds provide ample room for horse trailers and equipment. "The sites are large and easy to pull in and out," says Marilea G. about Northside RV Resort, noting its convenient layout for larger vehicles.
Wildlife viewing: The natural settings attract various wildlife species. Matt S. reports at Isle du Bois Campsites, "We have car camped on a few occasions here and each time we saw plenty of deer around camp," providing peaceful nature observation between rides.
Lake access: Direct water access ranks high among camper preferences. Monica C. from Pilot Knoll Park Campground shares, "We stayed in spot #5 right at the end of the cove. Calm water, large lot land area and clean, easy access to walk right into the lake to swim, and space to dock your boat make the cove side of the park an excellent score."
What You Should Know
Maintenance varies by season: Campground upkeep fluctuates throughout the year. "The only reason I'm giving this campground 4 stars is because: the grass was tall at the campsite, could have been maintained better, RV pads are asphalt and not very level," explains Christina H. about East Fork Park.
Road conditions: Access roads to some equestrian sites require careful navigation. Dennis G. warns about East Fork Park: "Bad roads into and thru the park, grass in bad need of cutting, garbage (glass bottles and dirty diapers) on the 'beach'."
Site terrain: Level sites can be hard to find in some parks. According to Melanie and Doug G., "The pad has definitely broken up over time and isn't level. The fire pit is also sitting at an angle." Consider bringing extra leveling blocks for horse trailers.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Loyd Park, TJ & Laura S. mention, "They have a big beach, park area to enjoy. Staff is friendly."
Swimming safety: Lake conditions vary by location and season. "This lake is great for boating. There was a nice swim area and overall the campground was clean and quiet," notes Christina H., highlighting family-friendly water access.
Weather preparedness: Plan for temperature fluctuations, especially with horses. Brian from COE Lavon Lake Lavonia shares practical advice: "We've camped in the site with the horse stables and put the tents with questionable rain flys in the horse stable," demonstrating how horse facilities can double as weather protection.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Electric and water connection placement varies across sites. Ray & Terri F. advise about East Fork Park: "The sites are well spaced and are 'mostly' paved with aging asphalt. The roads are in need of repair, with numerous potholes, some very large."
Leveling challenges: Bring additional leveling equipment for uneven sites. "Our site was very unlevel on the hill, so bring your chocks," recommends Cheryl D. about COE Lavon Lake Lavonia.
Shade availability: Limited tree cover affects comfort during summer months. "There weren't a whole lot of trees and none over the RV pads, so keep that in mind as far as the sun beating down on the camper," Christina H. cautions about East Fork Park.
