Ray Roberts Lake State Park offers lakeside camping with diverse accommodations from tent sites to RV hookups within 20 minutes of Sanger, Texas. The park features multiple camping areas including Isle du Bois and Johnson Branch units where sites range from primitive walk-in locations to full-service RV spots with water and electric connections. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F between June and September, making spring and fall ideal camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: At Johnson Branch Campsites, hikers can access multiple trail routes suitable for beginners to experienced outdoor enthusiasts. "Lots of hiking trails. You really can't go wrong with Johnson Branch on Lake Ray Roberts," notes Chris P. The trails accommodate both day hikers and campers seeking morning exercise options.
Fishing opportunities: The Lighthouse Cove RV Park provides direct water access for fishing at Lake Ray Roberts. "The campground is on the water at lake Ray Roberts Marina," explains Matthew C. Fishing enthusiasts can catch bass, catfish, and crappie without traveling far from their campsites.
Lake swimming: Willow Grove Park offers designated swimming areas when weather permits. "The lake was warm and there was a little 'beach' for swimming- I would recommend water shoes and floaties!" advises Summer A. The beach area provides a convenient option for cooling off during hot Texas days.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campers consistently praise the site layout at Isle du Bois Campsites for offering adequate spacing between neighbors. "Campsites, large and private," reports Eric R. This separation allows for a more secluded camping experience despite the park's popularity.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds near Sanger maintain well-kept bathroom and shower facilities. "Very clean showers, nice trails...very family friendly," shares Bryan A. about Ray Roberts Lake State Park. The maintenance standards extend to common areas and playgrounds throughout the facilities.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to observe native Texas wildlife. "A very nice state park, about an hour northwest of Dallas. Lots of hiking and biking trails, with clean restrooms! Deer will approach your campsite and you're likely to see all kinds of wildlife," reports Tony C. about Isle du Bois. Early mornings and evenings provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. At Hickory Creek - Lewisville Lake, sites fill quickly for weekend camping. "Sites on the point have few trees and wide open spaces, but the lake view is expansive," explains Susan L. Reserve sites 60-90 days ahead for prime weekend dates.
Site selection considerations: Each campground offers various site types with different amenities and privacy levels. "The car camp sites: They have a variety of sites that can be tucked into the trees or more in the open when bordering the lake," notes Matt S. Research specific site numbers when making reservations to ensure the location meets your needs.
Weather preparedness: Texas weather can change rapidly, requiring campers to prepare for multiple conditions. "Super, super windy. Got hit by two really bad lightning and thunderstorms and had to sit in my car for a while during the worst of it (certain parts had tornados and hail)," cautions Joyce L. Pack accordingly with rain gear and secure tent stakes.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. "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," shares Matt S. about Isle du Bois. These recreation areas provide entertainment options when children need breaks from hiking or water activities.
Beach swimming areas: Willow Grove Park offers designated swimming beaches suitable for families with children. "There is a park with slides and swings. The lake was warm and there was a little 'beach' for swimming," mentions Summer A. The supervised swimming areas provide safer water recreation than open lake access.
Site proximity to facilities: When camping with children, choosing sites near restrooms simplifies logistics. "I stayed at site 39 and it was an asphalt/gravel pad and fairly level. Water pressure was good and there was lots of shade and ample privacy between sites in this section," explains Susan L. about Hickory Creek. Sites numbered below 50 typically offer the best balance of privacy and bathroom access.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Wagon Master RV Park and Alpaca Farm provides comprehensive amenities for RV campers. "Our pull through spot on gravel was level and clean. The grounds are very well kept and decorated with Texas charm," reports Kelsey G. The park offers 30/50 amp electrical connections and full water hookups at each site.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer sewer connections at individual sites. "The only 'negative' I found is that the sewage hook up is not at the actual site. There are dump stations in different places," explains Luis about Hickory Creek. Plan accordingly by monitoring tank levels and locating dump stations before arrival.
Pet friendly accommodations: Multiple RV parks welcome pets with designated exercise areas. "Absolutely loved the property! Great pool and club house. The staff were really friendly and helpful. Also loved that they are pet friendly!" shares Jackie M. about Wagon Master RV Park. Most campgrounds require leashes and current vaccination records for pets.
Ranger
