Weatherford camping areas provide access to varied terrain around the Brazos River and Lake Mineral Wells. Located in the Cross Timbers region of north Texas, campers experience hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F and mild winters. The area features limestone outcroppings and oak-dotted landscapes that support diverse horse trails and water recreation options.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: Lake Mineral Wells State Park offers an equestrian-friendly environment with dedicated trails and campsites. "The equestrian trail and sites if you have horses" are available for riders who bring their own mounts, as noted by one visitor to Cross Timbers — Lake Mineral Wells State Park.
Rock climbing: Head to Penitentiary Hollow at Lake Mineral Wells for beginner to intermediate climbing routes. "Great rock climbing in Penitentiary Cove. Awesome rock formations, crevasses, and little shallow caves. Climbers enjoy this spot too," shares a visitor to Plateau — Lake Mineral Wells State Park. Another camper advises "MUST HAVE 15-20 FOOT SLINGS ANCHORS ARE MILES APART!!!" for those planning to climb at this location.
River tubing: The Brazos River near Weatherford offers seasonal tubing opportunities. "We tubed on Saturday and on Sunday we hung out on sandy island w new Friends while hubby n boys fished," notes a visitor to Hillbilly Haven Recreational Vehicle Park. Check water levels before planning a tubing trip as one reviewer mentioned they "ended up walking most of the way since the river was very low in most spots."
What campers like
Private shoreline access: Some campsites at Possum Kingdom State Park offer semi-private lake frontage. "112 is located perfectly right across from the bathrooms, and has a semi 'easy to access' water's edge," reports a visitor to Possum Kingdom State Park Campground. The park sits approximately 38 miles northwest of Weatherford and provides multiple water-access points for kayaking and fishing.
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas around Weatherford support diverse wildlife. "We saw a few deer and could hear coyotes in the distance at night," mentioned one camper at Lake Mineral Wells. Another visitor to Loyd Park shared that "a deer strolled casually and fearlessly through the site while munching on grass. The fish were also entertaining and the frogs serenaded at night."
Shaded campsites: Many campgrounds offer tree cover for protection from the Texas heat. "Lots of sites have lots of shade," noted a camper at Holiday Park. Another observed that the campgrounds near Weatherford feature "large sites with wooded privacy" making them comfortable even during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 95°F.
What you should know
Seasonal water conditions: Water activities depend on rainfall and time of year. "If the river is too high these sites may be closed," warns a camper about primitive sites at Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground. Another notes "it had rained a lot before we got there and the lake was floating over the road by the dam drive over, it was rather scary."
Site selection matters: Not all campsites offer the same amenities or conditions. "Site 73 was the only other site in our little cul-de-sac," noted a camper about Holiday Park, suggesting the importance of researching specific site locations beforehand. Another camper mentioned that "Sites are roomy and clean. Close walk to the bathrooms," highlighting the practical benefits of their chosen location.
Insect preparedness: Be ready for common Texas pests during warmer months. "There were fire ants and chiggers all over our campsite!" warned one camper about Cedar Hill State Park. Pack insect repellent, especially during summer, and perform regular tick checks when hiking or horseback riding through wooded areas.
Tips for camping with families
Easy water recreation: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly water access without requiring boats. "Very nice campground with shaded paved sites. Some sites are short, so if you have a long rig you may want to call," advises a visitor about Dinosaur Valley. The park has "multiple dinosaur footprints along the river" that children can explore while wading.
Campground amenities: Look for facilities that offer activities beyond camping. "This park fits me. Dog park, horse stall rentals, storage unit rentals, recreation room, bathrooms and showers, tiny home rentals," shares a visitor to Hooves N Wheels RV Park. These additional amenities provide entertainment options for children during extended stays.
Safety considerations: Parks with controlled access provide extra security for families. "The park host is also a ranger. He and his wife were directly across from our site. The whole park seems to be heavily patrolled," notes a camper about Lake Mineral Wells State Park. Another mentions that some parks "close the gate at 10 pm and you must have a code to enter after that."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Check specific site details as hookup types vary widely. "Sites with full hook up are limited, but even with annuals are still possible," notes a visitor about Bay Landing RV Campground. Another camper mentioned "If you want to stay where we did in sites 72-75 they were definitely electric only, contrary to what other reviews mentioned."
Level sites: Look for campgrounds with level concrete pads for easier setup. "Sites are sort of level side to side, a bit too far out for me to just take it but way off fore and aft," warns one RVer at Bay Landing. Another notes that "Pads are broken up almost to the point of dangerous" at one park, highlighting the importance of researching site conditions before arrival.
Big rig accessibility: Some parks accommodate larger vehicles better than others. "The park is designed with small loops for 15-20 camp sites in each loop. Very little traffic right by the individual spots. Easy in and out of park," reports a camper at Cedar Hill State Park. Road conditions may change seasonally, so call ahead for current access information if traveling with a large RV.
