The Wayside area of Texas experiences arid conditions with average summer temperatures reaching 90°F. Camping options near Wayside range from established RV parks with concrete pads to more rustic lake experiences. Water conservation is crucial when camping in this region due to limited natural water sources.
What to do
Fishing at Buffalo Springs Lake: Anglers can enjoy year-round fishing opportunities at Buffalo Springs Lake near Lubbock. According to one visitor, "lake, fishing, swimming, side by side trail. great place to relax" and many campers note the "pretty lake good for fishing."
Disc golf at Coleman Park: Coleman RV Park offers free camping with electric hookups adjacent to a city park with disc golf facilities. A camper mentioned, "It is connected to a city park, with disc golf set up right near by," making it an excellent no-cost option for outdoor recreation.
Swimming in heated pools: During warmer months, The Retreat RV and Camping Resort provides a clean swimming pool area for guests. One reviewer noted, "Great amenities such as heated pool, laundry facilities, workout facilities and family area," offering alternatives to lake swimming.
What campers like
Level concrete sites: Lubbock RV Park receives consistent praise for its site quality. One camper stated, "Our pad was nice and level and all the hookups worked great!" while another mentioned, "Sites are close together in the traditional manner," indicating the typical RV park layout.
Indoor amenities for extreme weather: Lubbock KOA provides indoor facilities that protect from harsh Texas conditions. A camper noted, "an indoor pool, a hot tub, and a nice little walk around the park all make this place a good stay," which proves useful during high heat periods.
Affordable overnight stops: Multiple campgrounds offer economical options for travelers passing through. At Coleman Park, a reviewer appreciated that it's "a great free spot with electricity and water and not a lot of frills!" providing basics without cost.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds at Buffalo Springs Lake: Buffalo Springs Lake can become crowded during holidays. One camper warned, "Place does get pretty packed on holidays, and tends to get alil rowdy and loud," while another observed it has "a Marina restaurant on site with live music on the weekends, in the warmer months."
Highway noise considerations: Several RV parks sit close to major roads, creating potential noise issues. A Twin Pine RV Park guest reported, "Location is right off Hwy 84, Slaton, Texas, so traffic is loud," a factor to consider when choosing sites.
Reservation requirements: Some parks require advance booking, especially during busy periods. One frustrated traveler noted, "Got to the gate and was told if I did not have a reservation, I could not enter," highlighting the importance of calling ahead.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family campers appreciate designated play areas at certain parks. A visitor to Lubbock KOA observed, "A good place to take kids it seems, big playground right next to the pool," offering supervised recreation options.
Educational opportunities: The Lubbock area provides learning experiences beyond camping. One family recommended, "If you have kids: You are close to the Lubbock Science Spectrum Museum which is part of the ASTC Passport Program. It is a great place to spend the day."
Budget-friendly options: Camelot Village & RV Park provides affordable accommodations with convenient access to supplies. A visitor noted it's "close to shopping and restaurants" and "all sites are level, full hookups," making it practical for extended family stays.
Tips from RVers
Entry angle awareness: Some parks have challenging access points. One RVer at Cotton Land RV Park warned, "WATCH THE ENTRY AND EXIT TO THE MAIN ROAD. THERE IS A VERY LARGE GRADE difference between the park and the road. I dragged the bumper on my 35' fifth wheel both times getting in and out."
Off-hour arrival procedures: For pet-friendly camping near Wayside, Texas, late arrivals should check park protocols. A traveler at Twin Pine RV Park explained, "We reserved a spot and did not pay the 'confirm' fee to ensure that we got that spot (so, they reserved the right to change us)," indicating flexible check-in policies.
Electrical service verification: Check power availability, especially during extreme temperatures. One RVer reported, "I have a 50 amp connection with only one leg so I cannot run both AC units and it is 94 outside," highlighting the importance of confirming adequate electrical service when traveling with pets in the Wayside area.
