Ray Roberts Lake State Park offers several camping options beyond the equestrian facilities at Isle du Bois. Located 40 miles north of Saginaw, Texas, the park sits at approximately 650 feet elevation in the Cross Timbers ecological region. The surrounding terrain features a mix of oak woodlands and prairie landscapes with the 29,000-acre reservoir providing water-based recreation opportunities year-round.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: The trail system at Ray Roberts Lake State Park extends through diverse habitats. "Nice trails, allowing riders to enjoy scenic views while exploring the park's natural areas," with "clearly marked paths that are wide enough for comfortable riding, with varying terrain suitable for different skill levels." The Hawthorne area offers scenic trails that "vary in distance but are easy to connect for longer hikes – or walk the shoreline for a nice lakeside view."
Shoreline fishing: Access the water directly from many campsites for bank fishing. At Loyd Park, visitors appreciate "lit fishing piers, after the kids are in bed, can indulge in some 'me' time with a nice cigar and a couple of beers in a folding chair." The park includes multiple fishing access points where "fish were also entertaining and the frogs serenaded at night."
Boating options: Several boat ramps provide lake access for motorized craft and paddlers. "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," notes one camper at Pilot Knoll Park Campground, where many sites have "direct access to the water to launch a kayak or SUP."
What campers like
Secluded primitive camping: For those seeking more isolation while equestrian camping near Saginaw, Texas, some parks offer hike-in options. "We have done a lot of Primitive camping here that requires only a half mile walk from the parking lot. The primitive sites in the Hawthorne campgrounds are spaced a good distance apart and really give you a feel of isolation. Sites on the perimeter all have lake access where you can pull a boat up."
Wildlife viewing: The parks surrounding Saginaw provide opportunities to observe native animals. At Cedar Hill State Park Campground, the park is "designed with small loops for 15-20 camp sites in each loop. Very little traffic right by the individual spots." This design creates habitat pockets where wildlife flourishes, though campers should note that "there were fire ants and chiggers all over our campsite!"
Swimming areas: Several parks maintain dedicated swimming areas with sandy beaches. At Lake Mineral Wells State Park, "the campground was beautiful. It was quiet, the bathrooms were clean, and the lake was serene." The park features "water to play in, trails that are easy to navigate and the option to tent camp or use a shelter. The rock gorge near the lake is a wonderful place to explore."
What you should know
Seasonal concerns: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F in north Texas. At Holiday Park Campground, "we stayed at this park from July 8 until July 14, we were in site #05. This site had 50 amp electric and water. Park was very well kept, grass mowed and cover over picnic table. This site had little to no shade, ac had to work very hard. Would not recommend this site in summer time."
Reservation timing: Book campsites early, especially for weekend stays during spring and fall. "The park remains open year-round, allowing for seasonal riding opportunities, though summer months can be particularly hot for both horses and riders in the Texas climate."
Insect preparation: Bring appropriate repellents for mosquitoes, ticks, and fire ants. "Nice lake but there were fire ants and chiggers all over our campsite!" Another camper noted similar issues: "Fire ants and chiggers all over! But the lake was nice."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many parks feature play areas for children. "There is also a fantastic beach swim area for day use or to visit while your camping. Nice sand and roped off swimming areas with large playgrounds. There is also a small playground with slides and climbing structures across from the restrooms. My youngest was super excited to see a little library set up at the playground."
Educational opportunities: At Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground, families can explore natural history. "This place is awesome. One of the best natural swimming holes I've found near DFW. There are dinosaur fossils everywhere. hiking is great, and even on a hot summer day you can go swim in the river or the blue hole." Located about an hour from Saginaw, this park combines recreation with learning opportunities.
Safer water activities: Some parks restrict motorized watercraft. "Jet skis, water skiing and tubing are prohibited on this lake," creating calmer conditions for novice paddlers and swimmers. "The water is gentle," making it suitable for families with younger children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should research campsite length and hookup options. "We camped in the Plateau this trip and was lakeside. Campsite 64 has lots of cattails so I didn't launch my kayak from here. One thing I really enjoyed about this site was the breeze off the lake. It kept a hot July weekend comfortable when sitting outside at the campsite and also seemed to keep the bugs at bay."
Electrical connections: During summer, adequate power is essential for air conditioning. "Some sites are 50 amp, while all are for 30 amp. Larger rigs are more accommodated next to the lake. But call ahead to see which sites have 50 amp, you'll need it in summer time."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds have full hookups available. "We had to use the dump station. But apparently they are creating some full hookup sites so we will be back." Check campground maps for sanitary dump locations before arrival.
