Lake Livingston, the second-largest lake fully within Texas borders, serves as the centerpiece for glamping near Shepherd, Texas. The 83,000-acre reservoir stretches across four counties with 450 miles of shoreline. Winter temperatures average 50-60°F while summer months regularly reach 90-95°F, creating distinct camping experiences depending on seasonal timing.
What to do
Horseback riding excursions: At Lake Livingston State Park Campground, equestrian adventures pair with culinary experiences. "You can have a horseback ride and steak dinner at the park for a reasonable fee and meet some interesting people. Swim in the lake, hike the trails, and kayak," notes camper Emily M.
Kayak rentals: Self-service kayak rental stations make water exploration accessible for all skill levels. "There's even 'self service' kayak rentals. And a swing set and slide built well enough for adults!" reports Rocco at Lake Livingston State Park Campground. Rental rates typically range from $10-20 per craft.
Miniature golf: Family-friendly recreation extends beyond water activities at Wolf Creek Park. "Spent holiday weekend with the family. Bicycling, Swimming, Fishing, putt putt golf. The kids loved the park and the golf," shares Emily S., highlighting the diverse activities available within walking distance of campsites.
Handicap-accessible trails: Inclusive outdoor experiences accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. "There is a 'board walk trail' that is quite literally a board walk through the forest. It's just a 1 mile loop and has a few benches and attractions, and this would be an excellent handicap option," details Rocco at Lake Livingston State Park Campground.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Premium camping locations offer direct lake access with added privacy. "Huge campsite along the lakefront with access to launch kayak/canoe or even swim. Gorgeous sunsets over the lake. It was wonderful to sit at the fire facing the lake and watch the sunsets," explains Napunani at Lake Livingston State Park Campground.
Family-friendly layout: Wolf Creek Park creates a controlled camping environment ideal for families with children. "This park is closed to the general public on weekends, so even if it is filled with campers, things are usually pretty calm and quiet," notes Jackie M., highlighting the security measures in place.
Shower and restroom facilities: Upgraded comfort amenities receive positive mentions from luxury campers at Woodsy Hollow Campground & RV Resort. "Bathrooms were super clean and modern, easy access to the lake and dog friendly. We stayed for just 2 nights but we def will be coming back!" reports Estefania R., emphasizing the importance of these facilities for enhancing the glamping experience.
Wildlife interaction: Natural encounters create memorable moments for campers. "The squirrels that ate from our fingertips! It was also really amusing to find the squirrels VERY friendly. They just hoped up onto our laps and took peanuts in the shell from our fingertips!" shares Napunani at Lake Livingston State Park.
What you should know
Site selection strategies: At Thousand Trails Lake Conroe, booking systems require understanding unique protocols. "The campground is huge, and you cannot reserve a specific site. You drive around and pick a site, then call and let them know which one you're in," explains Debbie J., noting that site availability can become limited during peak seasons.
Lake conditions: Water features include potential hazards for inexperienced swimmers at Bethy Creek Resort. "The bottom has many large rocks, tree stumps and is very mossy. Swimming can be fun but a little dangerous and slippery," cautions Rachel W., providing important safety context for water activities.
Weather considerations: Spring rainfall impacts site conditions and requires planning. "The dirt area around the picnic table, fire pit and lantern pole was a huge MUD hole! What a mess due to daily rains," reports Napunani at Lake Livingston State Park, suggesting campers pack appropriate footwear for variable conditions.
Seasonal occupancy patterns: Winter months offer distinctly different experiences than peak summer season. "This time of year (Thanksgiving Week) Very quiet!" notes Patricia B. about Bethy Creek Resort, contrasting with the bustling summer environment when waterfront sites book months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Educational activities: Interactive learning opportunities engage younger campers. "Connected to the park store they had a small educational space for young kids with a functioning beehive. The kids (ages 2-6) loved it," shares Rachel W. at Lake Livingston State Park, highlighting nature-based learning options.
Swimming area assessment: Tombigbee Lake - AC Indian Reservation provides dedicated swimming spaces with safety features for children. "We tried the swimming area for the first time and we absolutely loved it. It's perfect for the kiddos and not too deep, no matter how far you go out," reports Michaela L., detailing the controlled swimming environment.
Site spacing considerations: Campsite layout impacts family comfort and privacy levels. "The sites were all well maintained with the best spots being in Piney Shores & Red Oak. We were in spot #69. It had a great view but lacked in flat playing space for young children and hammock trees," cautions Rachel W., providing insight into site selection for families.
Rental equipment opportunities: Families can access various watercraft without transporting their own. "You can rent paddle boats, canoes and paddle boards, play miniature golf and purchase basic supplies from the park store," explains Mary A. at Wolf Creek Park, noting these conveniences for family outings.
Tips from RVers
Pad construction quality: Concrete pad implementation varies significantly between campsites. "Very level concrete pad requiring no additional leveling efforts," praises Napunani at Lake Livingston State Park, contrasting with reports of uneven surfaces at other locations.
Loop selection guidance: Experienced RVers recommend specific camping sections at Marina Village Resort. "The east section is a little older and smaller sites but was still able to find one for our 42' coach. The 'YAPUN' section is where we stayed last and was new and very nice, all the sites had concrete pads to park on and are fairly level," advises David S., providing practical insights for large rigs.
Utility reliability considerations: Power stability issues affect electronics and comfort systems. "Power interruptions, albeit short. Very glad we had our power surge protector," notes Napunani at Lake Livingston State Park, suggesting RVers bring protection devices for their equipment.
Site positioning challenges: Maneuverability constraints impact larger vehicles at certain campsites. "Steep drop-off of the concert pad and the narrow roadway making backing in challenging, but not impossible for our 27ft trailer. Any larger rigs might not be able to swing it," warns Napunani, giving specific measurements useful for planning.
