Camping opportunities near Scroggins, Texas center primarily around freshwater lakes and pine forests at elevations averaging 400 feet. The region sees summer high temperatures regularly in the 90s with mild winters, creating extended camping seasons from March through November. Cell service can be spotty in more remote camping areas, with reception typically stronger at established campgrounds near Pittsburg and Mount Pleasant.
What to do
Kayaking the winding waterways: Lake Bob Sandlin State Park Campground features a unique kayak launch area that creates a memorable paddling experience. As one visitor noted, "Kayak launch isn't easy to get to but they have provided a slide for yaks to get from the parking area to/from the launch. Once you're there though its like you're transported somewhere else and you weave your way through a winding canal to reach the lake."
Night wildlife viewing: The forested campgrounds around Scroggins offer excellent opportunities to see nocturnal animals. One camper at Lake Bob Sandlin mentioned, "We had a regular nighttime visit from some bold raccoons, so definitely put your goodies and trash away. One morning, as I was sitting drinking my coffee, four deer walked right through our site!"
Volleyball at lakeside parks: Walleye Park provides recreational facilities beyond water activities. According to a visitor: "2 sand lot volleyball courts, small pier shared by every two campsites, metal picnic table, pedestal BBQ grill and concrete fire ring with no cooking grate."
Geocaching adventures: The parks surrounding Scroggins offer geocaching opportunities even in winter months. As one Walleye Park visitor explained, "We were the only ones crazy enough to go in December but it was great! Beautiful views and great fishing and were able to cook out and go geocaching."
What campers like
Secluded sites amid dense forest: Public Ramp 1 offers dispersed camping with natural privacy. A camper noted, "What a beautiful place! There are dispersed sites throughout the recreation area with clearly marked areas where no camping is allowed. There are restrooms and water available, as well as dumpsters."
Climate-controlled facilities: Walleye Park provides comfort amenities that campers appreciate during extreme temperatures. One review mentioned, "Climate controlled toilet/shower facility which are cleaned every weekday morning."
Free camping options with lake access: Public Ramp 1 provides budget-friendly options. A visitor shared, "It is within about 5 miles of Mount Pleasant, TX. Not far from Walmart, Home Depot, and other shopping and restaurants. It's primitive boondocking, but pretty nice and clean. Park next to the water."
Fall and winter camping solitude: The off-season provides tranquil experiences with fewer crowds. One camper at Public Ramp 1 remarked, "Beautiful lake and campground. Mostly level camping spots. Breezy during the day and calm at night. Can only stay for 7 days, not 14. Has lots of trees as well for hammocks."
What you should know
Campsite reservation requirements: Twin Oaks Group Park requires advance booking, especially for family gatherings. A reviewer advised, "Book way ahead because we book a year in advance." This park specializes in group camping experiences.
Vehicle requirements at some parks: Not all camping areas allow tent-only campers without vehicles. At Public Ramp 1, a visitor cautioned, "We hitchhiked here and got turned away for not having a vehicle to register with the campground. The grounds looked nice, but be advised that if you are traveling on foot you will not be permitted to enter."
Minimum stay requirements: Several campgrounds enforce minimum stays. At Walleye Park, be prepared for restrictions as one camper noted: "Minimal pay/stay 3 nights, $5 fee to make online reservations."
Overnight noise considerations: Boat traffic can continue after dark at some lakefront sites. A Walleye Park visitor mentioned, "LOTS of middle of the night boat noise. Street lights throughout campground which hinders dark sky viewing."
Tips for camping with families
Group camping facilities: Twin Oaks Group Park specializes in family reunions with specific amenities. A visitor explained, "We do our family reunion camping trip twice a year here. It is great they have everything you need: huge grill, covered pavilion, large group fire pit. Every camp site faces the center so you see the whole area."
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Lake Winnsboro Park provides accessible shoreline fishing suitable for children. A visitor described it as "Super cute and quiet. This was a great little spot! Free, quiet & clean. There were very clean portopottys for use as well."
Wildlife education opportunities: The prevalence of wildlife creates natural learning experiences. One camper at Lake Bob Sandlin State Park noted, "Overnight spider webs cover everything and I'm quite sure we took a hundred spiders home with us! The firewood from the park was plentiful and donation based."
Beach and swimming access: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with sandy beaches. A Lake Bob Sandlin visitor shared, "Stayed for a two day stay. Spots are small for parking but are for the camp site was appropriate. Plenty of things to do. If you like fishing plenty of options for all ages. Nice fishing pier. Cool by the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: The Bluffs RV Park provides better-prepared sites for larger rigs. A visitor noted, "Close to boat ramp, 5 min walk to the lake, full hookups, good water pressure, fire pits, gravel sites, concrete pads for wooden picnic tables, small grills, dog run, horseshoes, laundry hut and free firewood!"
Water pressure variations: Water systems can be inconsistent at some parks. At Walleye Park, a camper reported, "Site 69 will take a 45' motor coach. We have camped several times here but this time the water pressure was a joke. Very few campers. We had to use onboard water pump for everything."
Extended stay options: For longer-term camping, certain parks accommodate month-long visits. A reviewer at Big Al's Barefoot Bay shared, "Our family of 4 stayed for a month while we were waiting for camper repairs. They have Karaoke across the street every Friday and live music every Saturday."
Site selection for larger RVs: Not all sites accommodate big rigs equally. A Walleye Park visitor advised, "Their reservation system leaves a lot to be desired. You must book 3 days minimum which leaves a lot of single day gaps that cannot be reserved online. Be sure to look at the key available on their reservation site to get a site suitable for your rig."
