Wright Patman Lake and surrounding areas offer camping opportunities for travelers at elevations ranging from 220-280 feet above sea level. The climate features hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures. Pine forests dominate the landscape with cypress trees lining the waterways throughout the eastern Texas region.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Atlanta State Park Campground, fishing is a primary activity on Wright Patman Lake. "Lots of hiking trails. Great place to swim, boat kayaking and fishing!" notes one visitor, who mentioned the three-hour drive as the only downside.
Hiking trails: The forested areas feature numerous trails with varying difficulty levels. "The nature trail goes over a couple foot bridges and has a lot to see. These are not wide, take the baby stroller kind of trails," shares one camper who appreciated the maintenance of the trails at Atlanta State Park.
Water recreation: Beyond fishing, the lakes provide swimming and boating options. At White Cliffs Park, a visitor noted the "Clean park, clean bathrooms, level pad, a little narrow, picnic table, bbq pit, and a large hook to hang stuff" making it convenient for water activities.
Paddling experiences: Buffalo Bayou RV Park offers unique paddling experiences through cypress trees. "There's a kayak rental right next door which is a very short paddle to the camp. There's a small boat ramp at the park so putting in is easy. There's 3 trails close to the park. Trails took 1-2 hours depending on which one you take and how fast you paddle."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Daingerfield State Park Campground receives praise for its privacy. "Privacy if that's your thing, it is for us and our three dogs. However, there is an awesome pavilion, swim dock, picnic area and paddle boat area. Something for everyone," explains one reviewer.
Wildlife viewing: The area's natural setting attracts wildlife enthusiasts. "I stopped at Daingerfield State Park on my way to Arkansas... it was beautiful with all the fall colors. I was at cedar ridge site 51. It was a Wednesday night so there were only 3 other sites being used in that area," mentions one visitor who appreciated the peaceful setting.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of facilities. A visitor to Daingerfield noted, "Clean, well maintained campsites, restrooms, park and lakeside facilities. Gorgeous lake for our boys to practice canoeing and kayaking skills. Nice looking swimming area."
Scenic lake views: Several campgrounds offer elevated views of their respective lakes. A camper at Beavers Bend State Park Campground shared, "One of the most beautiful campsites we've been too," highlighting the scenic value of the location.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures can make outdoor activities challenging. "This park has some great spots on a hill overlooking the lake! Sites are shaded level and full hookups!" notes a visitor to Atlanta State Park, highlighting the importance of shade during hot months.
Campsite selection: Not all sites are created equal. At Texarkana RV Park & Event Center, a reviewer advised, "Texarkana RV Park is a very nice, clean, and friendly RV park. They have a gated entrance for extra security. Most sites are pull-thru and plenty long, but narrow. Beware of your slide placement before parking, as site poles may be in the way of a slide fully opening."
Wildlife considerations: Wildlife is part of the glamping experience in Wake Village, Texas. Buffalo Bayou RV Park requires "you to sign a waiver because of the water moccasins from the bayou and because of the potential of falling tree limbs," according to one reviewer who still rated their stay positively.
Insect preparation: Insects can be abundant, especially near water. "I would recommend bringing a citronella candle there were a lot of bugs at night. it could have also been because we went in August," advises a tent camper at Atlanta State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play areas for children. At Atlanta State Park, a visitor noted, "They have play grounds and clean bathrooms. I would prep for muddy feet and bugs galore!"
Swimming options: The lakes provide swimming areas for family enjoyment. Daingerfield State Park features "Gorgeous lake for our boys to practice canoeing and kayaking skills. Nice looking swimming area," according to a family visitor.
Educational opportunities: Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground offers unique activities. "Took my littles and we had fun panning for a hot minute but the trails were good, the playground was good and the facilities were very clean! Something way out of our normal!" shared a parent who enjoyed this distinctive experience.
Timing considerations: Weekdays offer less crowded experiences. "It was a Wednesday night so there were only 3 other sites being used in that area. I like not feeling surrounded by campsites," noted a visitor to Daingerfield State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Some campgrounds require preparation for uneven sites. "Sites are pretty good size with table, grill and fire ring. Pads are fairly level, only took 1 2x12 in the one side, make sure to bring blocks for the rear stabilizers as the pad drops off at the back," advises an RV camper at Atlanta State Park.
Full hookup availability: RVers should research hookup options when planning glamping in the Wake Village area. "Another beautiful park on Wright Patman Lake, with a few full hookup sites. Beautiful area, tall pines, beach area, dock, boat launch," notes a visitor to Daingerfield State Park.
Site size considerations: RV length limitations vary by campground. A reviewer at Daingerfield explained, "BIG PINE camping area only big rig friendly (longer than 20 ft) out of 40 FHU sites. Most FHU sites (other than BIG PINE) are extremely short in length. Barely room for single axle TT, so need to review site details carefully."
