Fort Parker State Park, managed by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, centers its camping experience around a lake that shapes nearly every aspect of a stay here. Several sites sit directly on the water's edge, and campers frequently note that these fill quickly, particularly on weekends. The park has a distinctly fishing-forward character: the entrance guardhouse is decorated with decades-old catch photos, and reviewers describe it as the most angler-oriented Texas state park they've visited among a dozen or more. Pelicans and herons are regular sightings along the shoreline, and the Navasota River Trail, while short, runs parallel to both the lake and the main road.
Water access is the campground's defining draw. Canoe and kayak rentals give paddlers a way to cross the lake and reach the river without their own gear. The swimming area, however, draws mixed feedback: some visitors report muddy conditions and surface scum, so those planning to swim should check recent conditions before arrival. As Katie S. notes, she "rented a canoe and paddled across the lake to the river," finding it a more rewarding way to experience the water than the designated swim zone.
Sites in the water-only section can become swampy after significant rainfall, particularly the primitive spots closest to the lake. Sites 6 through 10 have been flagged for uneven terrain requiring leveling. Full hookup RV sites, which accommodate rigs up to 50 feet with electric, water, and sewer connections, tend to offer more level ground and better spacing. The park also provides WiFi, a dump station, and screened shelters available for groups. Vault toilets in the primitive area are kept clean and stocked. Amie M. sums up the overall condition as "beautiful and generally well kept," though she rates it more highly for anglers than for families with young children.
The park runs year-round, and visits during off-peak periods can mean considerably less company. Verizon cell coverage has been reported as reliable, which matters for anyone working remotely. Reservations are available and worth booking in advance for lakeside sites. Nearby alternatives worth knowing include Fort Parker RV Park to the south and Old Fort Parker Park to the southwest, and those planning a longer regional trip can browse campsites near Mexia for additional context. Fort Parker State Park Campground is a good match for anglers, paddlers, and campers who want direct lake access with full hookup options available.
Description
On the banks of the Navasota, the past and the present collide. Two ecosystems meet here, too, and you can explore it all on foot, bike or kayak. Fort Parker State Park is just 90 miles south of the DFW Metroplex.
Stay overnight at a campsite, screened shelter or cabin. Cabins don’t have beds or bathrooms but do have air-conditioning. Sites are scattered around the lake’s edge, and most are near a restroom with showers.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsFort Parker State Park Campground is located in Texas near Mexia
Directions
From Houston: Take I 45 North to Buffalo. Take Hwy 164 West to Groesbeck. Take Hwy 14 North about 4 to 5 miles to Park Road 28. Turn left to Park entrance. From Dallas: Take I 45 South to Richland. Take Hwy 14 South through Mexia Continue for about 6 or 7 miles to Park Road 28. Turn right to Park entrance. From Fort Worth: Take I-35 South to Hillsboro. Take Hwy 171 exit, turn left & head South towards Mexia. Turn Right on Hwy 14, head South 6 to 7 miles to Park Road 28. Turn right at Park entrance. From Austin: Take I-35 North to Waco. Take US Hwy 84 to Mexia. Turn right on Hwy 14 and go 6 to 7 miles to Park Road 28. Turn right at park entrance.
Address
194 PARK ROAD 28
Mexia, TX 76667
Coordinates
31.59214609732452 N
96.52674964827465 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 6/30/26- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 6/30/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 48 min from Waco, TX
- 1 hr 15 min from College Station, TX
- 1 hr 20 min from Dallas, TX
- 1 hr 30 min from Killeen, TX
