Lake Whitney offers diverse equestrian camping options beyond the dedicated areas found at McCown Valley Park. The lake sits at approximately 533 feet above sea level within Texas Hill Country. Summer temperatures often exceed 95°F, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for horse trail riding in the area. Several campgrounds around the lake cater to horseback riders with varying amenities and trail access.
What to do
Horseback riding on marked trails: Plowman Creek provides access to riding paths with lake views. "A very nice campground right on the shores of Lake Whitney. Allegedly there is a trail called the Hopewell Trail that runs by the campground but I could not find any sign of it," notes David L.
Fishing from shoreline campsites: The fishing at Ham Creek Park draws many visitors. "Very clean and well maintained! I was very impressed and will definitely stay here again!" writes Audra R. The park offers good bank fishing opportunities for anglers.
Swimming at designated beach areas: Lofers Bend West features swimming areas suitable for cooling off after trail rides. "Beautiful park! Many shaded sites. Playground for the kids and swimming area. Lots of wildlife to look at," reports Shane M.
What campers like
Spacious sites for horse trailers: The campgrounds at Lake Whitney provide ample room for equestrian equipment. At McCown Valley Park, "Great park. Nice day use area. All types of camping. Some with shade some without," mentions Connie J.
Direct water access: Many horse riders appreciate the ability to water their horses at the lake. "I spent a week in December and the campground was quiet and beautiful. I had a spot right next to the lake where I kayaked, biked, and just walked with the dogs," shares David E. about his stay at McCown Valley Park.
Privacy between sites: Campgrounds offer good separation between camping areas. "The sites are leavel and well spaced out. the facilities were clean and fresh at the time of our visit," reports Dude R. about Lofers Bend West.
What you should know
Gate closure hours: Most horse campgrounds near Whitney enforce strict entry/exit times. "Good Camping Monday - Thursday if you enjoy the tranquility. Weekends - party all night, and loud drinkers arrive," warns Diane J. about Lofers Bend West.
Weather considerations: The Texas heat impacts trail riding conditions significantly. "We stayed at site 63 which is right on lake edge. Amazing sunsets. The sites have covered picnic tables with both fire pits with grates and stand up covered grills," notes Amy K. about her experience at Lofers Bend West.
Trail marking inconsistency: Some riding paths around Lake Whitney lack clear signage. "The picnic tables were set on concrete pads with solid shelter covers. Many trails to ride and walk on," shares Michael C. about Speegleville Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several equestrian-friendly campgrounds include play areas for children. "It's a gorgeous park and I'd hate to leave a bad review just because we went at a bad time... It's a kid friendly park with playgrounds and plenty of room to play without to much traffic," mentions Michaela L. about McCown Valley Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids often enjoy the abundant wildlife around horse camping areas. "We were there after season so the neighboring resort was closed. Lots of trails to walk," notes Michael C. about Speegleville Park.
Swimming areas for children: Many horse campgrounds feature designated swimming spots. "We stayed in site 4. The whole campground was booked but it was very quite. Loved the fishing and the best thing is there were no mosquitos!" shares Becky B. about her experience at Speegleville Park.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Thousand Trails Lake Whitney offers options for larger rigs. "Most reviews focus on the entry roads and they are correct the road could use some attention. The entry was very easy and the employee at the entry desk was knowledgeable and very friendly," shares Matthew.
Site leveling challenges: Some equestrian campsites require additional preparation. "The campsite has some nice amenities: campfire ring, picnic table with a shelter, and grill," notes David L. about Plowman Creek.
Road conditions: Access roads to horse-friendly campgrounds vary in quality. "Overall nice campground. Lots to do for the kiddos in the campground area. I stayed in Loop A so I was walking distance to the Lake," shares Kimberly about Thousand Trails Lake Whitney.
