Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch offers tent, RV, and cabin options with sites that feature water views and full hookups. Located 60 miles northwest of Dallas near Valley View, the park provides multiple camping loops with both wooded and open sites. The terrain consists of blackland prairie and cross timbers woodland with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F and winter temperatures ranging from 30-60°F.
What to do
Hiking and nature exploration: The Johnson Branch unit features multiple trails through wooded areas. "We stayed at site 136 in dogwood canyon, and it was lovely. Next time I'd stay at 137 for a bit more isolation, as you could see the boardwalk from our campsite as the area is sparsely wooded," notes a visitor at Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch.
Swimming and water activities: Most campgrounds near Savannah provide direct lake access. "That is what I was looking for, what information, present here at this site!" remarks a visitor about Rock Island RV Park, noting its scenic water access points and recreational options.
Fishing: Fishing is popular at several lakes in the region. "You don't get large puddles after a rainstorm. Lots of birds around, I think there was a family of three rabbits that my dog would smell and chase," shares a camper at Winstar RV Park, describing the well-maintained grounds and wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Many campgrounds offer well-maintained camping areas. "All sites are paved, several are lake front, and the majority of them are well shaded. We camp here often - by ourselves, and with friends," reports a visitor at Loyd Park, highlighting the practical advantages of the campground layout.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds typically maintain their restrooms and shower facilities. "A very clean and well kept State Park, Bath and showers are very clean and warm it is cold today 38 Degrees," shares a camper about Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch, emphasizing the year-round comfort of facilities.
Lake views: Glamping near Savannah, Texas often includes premium waterfront locations. "We enjoyed a night here. Site was right on the water. Level and clean. Lots of hiking trails. You really can't go wrong with Johnson Branch on Lake Ray Roberts," notes a camper appreciating the practical benefits of lakefront camping.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Different camping loops offer varying levels of privacy and amenities. "I mean, a bad day camping is still better than a good day at work. We stayed in the Walnut camping circle and got site 62. The site was actually pretty nice. It had the most trees over the sites around us, to give us a 'in the woods' feel," explains a visitor at Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch.
Reservation requirements: Most parks require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. "Check-in was very easy, sites were very clean and well maintained, playground was amazing with an awesome 'roller-coaster' swing that the teenagers even loved," mentions a visitor at The Vineyards Campground & Cabins.
Walk-in distances: Some tent sites require carrying gear from parking areas. "We found Lake Ray Roberts as a nice swimming spot near Dallas to go cool down during the hot Texas summers. We found it a bit inconvenient for car camping since the spots are walk up and you gotta leave your car behind in a parking lot," cautions a camper about the logistics of tent camping.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play equipment for children. "The tent pad was big enough for a 6 man tent and a four man tent, with room to spare, which was nice. The other nice thing from our site, was that we were about 1/4 mile from a little playground for the kids," shares a visitor at Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch.
Beach areas: Multiple parks offer designated swimming areas with shallow entry. "We brought our small family of four out to tent camp for the first time this last weekend. I really enjoyed how well kept the grounds were and did love the open space between sites and the water, giving lots of space for the kids to play," notes a visitor at Pilot Knoll Park Campground.
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer ranger-led activities. "It's was very windy but we had loads of fun! We learned what native plants we can eat!" enthuses a visitor who camped with Cub Scouts at Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Many parks offer complete RV services. "Wide roads and cement pads. Large pavilion next to outdoor basketball court and playground. Good water pressure and multiple sewage hookups per pad," explains an RVer at Winstar RV Park.
Site leveling: Some parks have more level sites than others. "Sites have electricity and water, sewer dump is community spread across the grounds. Our site was only a hundred feet from the lake - gorgeous view!" shares an RVer at Loyd Park, noting both the amenities and potential limitations.
Seasonal considerations: High temperatures affect camping conditions in summer months. "Nothing to knock you socks off, but it's a great campsite close to home and nice for a quick getaway. Has the feel of being somewhat remote since it's out by the lake," comments an RVer at COE Lavon Lake Lavonia, describing its practical appeal for short trips.
