Camping sites near Wills Point, Texas sit at approximately 500 feet above sea level in the eastern part of the state. The region's Post Oak Savannah ecosystem creates a mix of grassland and woodland camping environments with oak mottes scattered throughout. Winter camping conditions remain mild with daytime temperatures typically ranging between 50-60°F, though occasional cold fronts can drop overnight temperatures below freezing.
What to Do
Fishing for catfish: Lake Tawakoni provides excellent catfish fishing opportunities with specimens reaching considerable size. At Lake Tawakoni State Park Campground, visitors report successful fishing trips. "This lake is well known for its Catfish Fisheries all around the lake which in turn causes the lake to produce very large Catfish. Upwards of 70lbs," notes one camper.
Bird watching: Fall and winter months offer prime bird watching conditions with reduced crowds. "Last time I was here it was fall and the leaves had changed and birds were everywhere. I didn't encounter very many people so, it felt like a had the place to myself. Walked along the shoreline and captured several pictures of the birds who were visiting," reports a visitor to Lake Tawakoni State Park.
Hiking on established trails: Several campgrounds offer hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. At Purtis Creek State Park Campground, "the hiking trails are well maintained. There is a small lake for fishing and a swimming area." The park features trail loops of one and two miles, with a complete circuit stretching approximately six miles.
What Campers Like
Uncrowded off-season camping: Winter camping provides a quieter experience with fewer visitors. A camper at Lake Tawakoni notes, "Fall has its advantages. The park was nearly vacant and it was easy to pay at the box since I had arrived late in the day."
Family-friendly bathrooms: Some facilities offer special bathroom accommodations. At Mill Creek Ranch RV & Cottage Resort, "bathhouse is very clean. A lot to do here." Lake Tawakoni State Park provides "individual rooms that have toilet and shower with a high lock. Really awesome if you are using shower with toddlers."
Golf cart rentals: Certain campgrounds allow golf cart rentals for easier navigation. "My kids had fun fishing and playing on the playground and LOVED that we could rent a golf cart," mentions a visitor to Mill Creek Ranch.
What You Should Know
Seasonal pest concerns: Insects can become problematic during certain periods. At Lake Tawakoni State Park, one camper advises, "Come prepared to battle the ants. We were overcome in our trailer with thousands of ants the first night, which has never happened before. We got them under control with spray after two days."
Weather-related challenges: Winter weather occasionally impacts facilities and services. A visitor to Thousand Trails Lake Tawakoni experienced "biggest ice and snow storm in 70yrs temperatures down to -2degrees below freezing for several days several inches of snow. All park water lines froze, rolling blackouts by the state, no propane available anywhere!"
Road maintenance varies: Internal roadways at campgrounds may require maintenance. One visitor to Thousand Trails notes "roads are terrible, spaces are unlevel, with no uniform length!" while others report newly improved conditions.
Tips for Camping with Families
Winter holiday events: Some parks offer special seasonal activities during holiday periods. "The park was having an event of Christmas lights. There were several campers who participated," reports a Lake Tawakoni visitor.
Playground options: Playgrounds vary significantly between campgrounds. Wind Point Park offers basic equipment including "swings, a slide, merry go round, and a see-saw type thing," though some visitors note dated facilities.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe local wildlife at several parks. Lake Tawakoni State Park campers report, "No feral pigs which are common these days. Nice sized spaces with tent areas and tables spread out."
Tips from RVers
Site surfaces vary: RV sites feature different pad materials and leveling conditions. At Bluebonnet Ridge RV Park, "they have about 10 concrete pads, the rest are level gravel. Blacktop roads, tennis/pickle ball court, small fishing lake, laundry, pool and tiny houses."
Varying hookup availability: RV campers should confirm specific hookup needs when booking. A Thousand Trails visitor notes, "As usual for Thousand Trails never enough 50amp hookups."
RV site spacing considerations: Privacy levels between sites differ by campground. At Purtis Creek State Park, "campsites are very secluded sites with plenty of room," while other parks position sites closer together.
