Ray Roberts Lake State Park provides multiple equestrian camping options near Sanger, Texas. The park spans over 29,000 acres with terrain varying from rolling grasslands to wooded areas. Winter temperatures average between 35-60°F while summer months often reach above 95°F with high humidity levels, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Trail riding access: Riders can navigate extensive trail systems directly from campsites. "I stayed at site 44, we had a great view of the lake, however we didn't realize we would need 50 feet of hose just to hook up to the water," notes a visitor to Elephant Rock Campground.
Primitive camping with horses: The LBJ National Grasslands offers open spaces for equestrian camping without amenities. "This campground is great for hitching up a high line for your ponies and spending the weekend hitting the trails. You'll have to haul water to your site from the water trough," explains a visitor to LBJ Lyndon B Johnson National Grasslands.
Wildlife viewing: Observe deer, birds and other local wildlife while on horseback. "Deer will approach your campsite and you're likely to see all kinds of wildlife. A gem of a getaway!" according to a camper at Isle du Bois.
What campers like
Private lake access: Some sites offer direct lake frontage for horses to drink. "Sites on the perimeter all have lake access where you can pull a boat up. We have car camped on a few occasions here and each time we saw plenty of deer around camp," writes a visitor at Isle du Bois Campsites.
Campsite spacing: Sites designed with enough room for horse trailers and equipment. "The sites are well spaced and are 'mostly' paved with aging asphalt," notes a camper at East Fork Park Campground.
Off-season solitude: Winter camping provides more privacy for equestrian campers. "There are few campers here in December. Restrooms were clean. Campsites, large and private," reports an Isle du Bois visitor.
What you should know
Primitive site distances: Walking distances from parking to some primitive sites can be substantial. "The trail path to the campsites is further than indicated or implied on the website, which isn't a problem if you're packed light, but if you're car camping with heavy equipment you will be surprised how far it is," cautions a camper at Isle du Bois.
Water access planning: Some sites require extra-long hoses to reach water hookups. Bring sufficient water containers for horses at primitive sites.
Terrain challenges: Some areas have challenging terrain for horses. "The roads are in need of repair, with numerous potholes, some very large," warns a visitor at East Fork Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Multiple playgrounds available near equestrian camping areas. "There are several playground areas central to the various campgrounds with easy access for your family. Showers and restrooms are close by the playgrounds as well," reports an Isle du Bois visitor.
Educational opportunities: Rangers often provide programs about local wildlife and ecosystems. "We learned what native plants we can eat!" shares a Cub Scout leader who visited Johnson Branch Campsites.
Safety considerations: Watch for specific hazards with horses and children. "Bring shoes though! Lots of little prickers in the grass down by the lake," advises an Isle du Bois camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: Choose sites with adequate space for both RV and horse trailer. "Concrete back in sites with full hookup's! Also fire rings, covered patio table's. Great place for fishing kayaking and hiking!" notes a Johnson Branch visitor.
Long-term camping options: Some parks accommodate extended stays for serious equestrians. "Sites with full hook up are limited, but even with annuals are still possible," shares a camper at Bay Landing RV Campground.
Seasonal considerations: RV sites can become muddy during wet seasons. "I sprained my knee and ankle at this park because our site was so unlevel and the mud sunk our jacks a little. Our rig weighs 16,000lbs so the Class As should be careful," cautions a Bay Landing visitor.
