Ray Roberts Lake State Park offers primitive camping areas with direct lake access for campers seeking a more secluded experience. The Wild Plum area provides tent camping with sites near the water that allow for bank fishing and wildlife observation. The terrain includes mixed oak forests with minimal elevation change. Winter camping sees fewer visitors, making it an ideal time for those seeking solitude.
What to do
Kayaking and paddleboarding at the lake: At Pilot Knoll Park Campground, campsites provide easy lake access. "Many spots are have direct access to the lake to launch a kayak or SUP, boat launch in the day use area," notes reviewer Michael H.
Bank fishing for beginners: The lakefront sites at Wild Plum area offer convenient fishing options. "Sites 119-122 (maybe 123) are right on the lake so you can see ducks and do some bank fishing without needing to go anywhere," according to Christopher L., who stayed at Isle du Bois.
Swimming at designated beaches: Cedar Hill State Park maintains swimming areas during summer months. "Very clean and picturesque park, would come back for sure," writes Shawn E., highlighting the park's water recreation options.
Wildlife observation: Deer sightings are common throughout the camping areas. "We have done a lot of Primitive camping here that requires only a half mile walk from the parking lot. We have car camped on a few occasions here and each time we saw plenty of deer around camp," says Matt S. about Isle du Bois.
What campers like
Large, well-spaced sites: Holiday Park Campground offers generous camping spaces. "Large sites is a big plus. Perimeter sites are much better than inner loop sites," explains Roger W., who appreciates the ample room between campsites.
Clean facilities: Johnson Branch unit maintains well-kept restrooms and showers. "Bath and showers are very clean and warm it is cold today 38 Degrees," reports Robert H., who was impressed with the facilities during winter camping.
Accessible primitive camping: The Wild Plum primitive camping area at Isle du Bois Campsites offers a balance of seclusion and convenience. "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," explains Matt S.
Winter solitude: The colder months provide a quieter camping experience. "There are few campers here in December. Restrooms were clean. Campsites, large and private," notes Eric R., who visited Isle du Bois during winter.
What you should know
Water levels fluctuate seasonally: Lake conditions change throughout the year at Ray Roberts Lake. "We went last weekend, water is high, some areas for RV flooded out," warns Augustin T., who visited Isle du Bois.
Primitive site distances: Walking distances to primitive sites can be significant. "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 Christopher L. about the Wild Plum area.
Insect preparedness: Cedar Hill State Park has seasonal insect activity. "Nice lake but there were fire ants and chiggers all over our campsite!" warns Jill C., highlighting the importance of bringing insect repellent.
Reservation requirements: Popular camping areas book quickly. "A very nice state park, about an hour northwest of Dallas. Lots of hiking and biking trails, with clean restrooms!" shares Tony C. about Isle du Bois, noting it's a "gem of a getaway" that requires advance planning.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Johnson Branch Campsites offers playground facilities for children. "The other nice thing from our site, was that we were about 1/4 mile from a little playground for the kids. The playground wasn't anything grand, but it broke up the days for the kids some, which as all parents know is a gift," mentions Chris H.
Swimming beaches: Isle du Bois has designated swimming areas with amenities. "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," Matt S. explains.
Open play spaces: Family-friendly campgrounds provide room for activities. "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," shares Joshua M. about his experience at Pilot Knoll Park.
Little library access: Some recreation areas include reading materials for children. "My youngest was super excited to see a little library set up at the playground. We chose Star Wars readers," mentions Monica C. about her experience at Pilot Knoll Park.
Tips for RVers
Site selection considerations: Loyd Park offers various RV-friendly options. "This city run park is one of our favorites, and only minutes from our home. All sites are paved, several are lake front, and the majority of them are well shaded," explains Randy H.
Hookup availability: Different camping areas offer varied utility connections. "We stayed at 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," advises Arvis C. about Holiday Park Campground.
Parking pad conditions: Check site specifications before booking. "The pad has definitely broken up over time and isn't level. The fire pit is also sitting at an angle," notes Melanie and Doug G. about East Fork Park Campground, highlighting the importance of bringing leveling equipment.
Seasonal shade considerations: Summer temperatures affect comfort levels. "Sites are far enough away that you have to shout at your neighbors, so feel free to stretch out and be yourself without worrying about being too noisy," Christopher L. says about Isle du Bois, while noting the lack of shade in some areas requires preparation for heat.
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