Clear Springs Park offers primitive and developed camping options on the shores of Wright Patman Lake, located in northeast Texas about 15 miles southwest of Texarkana. The area sits at approximately 220 feet above sea level in the Piney Woods region, characterized by mixed pine and hardwood forests. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-95°F and winter lows occasionally dropping below freezing.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Launch directly from Buffalo Bayou RV Park for easy access to cypress-lined waterways. "There is a kayak rental right next door which is a very short paddle to the camp. There's a small boat ramp at the park so putting in is easy. There's 3 trails close to the park. Trails took 1-2 hours depending on which one you take and how fast you paddle," notes camper Malae H.
Fishing opportunities: Wright Patman Lake spans over 20,000 acres with multiple species including bass, crappie, and catfish. "The location on Wright Patman lake is awesome. Many of the sites are lakefront, others are in shaded loops within a 2 min walk of the lake shore," reports Dale Y. from Clear Springs Park.
Hiking trails: Several parks offer pine forest trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. At Daingerfield State Park, about 40 miles from Wright Patman Lake, "Spring in the air, blooms all around. Very quiet but lively park, almost all the sites were occupied for the weekend. We enjoyed hiking, biking and even an ice cream from the park store."
What campers like
Spacious, lakefront sites: Many campsites offer direct lake views. "We stayed on site B14, a pull through with an actual deck looking out on the lake. It was beautiful and easy to set up in the dark, fit our RPod and a truck easily," says Brynn T. about Clear Springs.
Wildlife viewing: The area's abundant wildlife includes deer, various bird species, and aquatic animals. "Deer are oftentimes seen in the park. Clean restrooms with showers. Boat launch & dock. Lakeview sites have great views but no sewer hookups," explains Louann C. about camping at Clear Springs.
Seasonal variety: Atlanta State Park Campground offers year-round camping with distinct seasonal experiences. One visitor described it as "One the prettiest state parks we have had the pleasure of visiting. It is nestled back in a cove by the lake and far away from the hustle of the large and small cities and towns. Quiet, peaceful and beautiful."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "Remember to book in advance online! They won't let you in without an online reservation and cell coverage is minimal," warns kcki M. about Clear Springs Park.
Weather and bugs: Summer brings heat and insects. "Ants can be bad during summer & fall," notes one Clear Springs camper, while others mention mosquitoes near water areas.
Yurt camping options: While traditional yurt camping at Wright Patman Lake isn't widely available, Beavers Bend State Park offers yurt accommodations about 90 minutes from Wright Patman Lake. "We live approximately an hour and forty-five minutes from Beavers Bend and have been going off and on since 2010. We have tent camped, stayed in cabins in the park and outside the park."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly campsites: Look for developed sites with amenities. "This is a beautiful park with a few full hookup sites. Beautiful area, tall pines, beach area, dock, boat launch," says Carrie I. about Atlanta State Park.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming spots. A Buffalo Bayou RV Park visitor mentions, "An absolutely beautiful setting. This is a quiet, quaint park with the most beautiful views."
Security features: Some parks have added security measures. "Security gate that closes overnight," notes one camper at Daingerfield State Park, adding peace of mind for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. At White Cliffs Park, a camper shared: "Site 14. Clean park, clean bathrooms, level pad, a little narrow, picnic table, bbq pit, and a large hook to hang stuff."
Hookup placement: Campsite utilities may have unusual placement. "The water and power were across the pad which was not a big deal but we did not have a long enough extension cord to reach the tent for the air mattress," mentions Will B. about White Cliffs Park.
Leveling needs: Prepare for potentially uneven terrain. "Not all sites are level, but doable," notes a camper about Clear Springs, while others recommend bringing leveling blocks for stabilizers as some pads drop off at the back.
