trees reflecting in the water on a cloudy day at Lake Bob Sandlin State Park

Trees reflecting in Lake Bob Sandlin. Photo: OmgWhizBoyOmg, CC By 4.0, Wikimedia Commons.

Nestled in the heart of northeastern Texas, close to the Louisiana border lies the picturesque Lake Bob Sandlin State Park.

Flanked around the beautiful shores of Lake Bob Sandlin, this Texas state park is known for its water based recreational activities which includes boating, waterskiing, canoeing, kayaking, SUP, swimming and, of course, fishing.

Its 691 acres also accommodate several hiking trails that offer plenty of scenic spots around the lake, and woodland, for guests to take in, as well as a number of hidden geocaches to discover.

Attracting nature lovers from Dallas, Arlington, Fort Worth, and Shreveport, all of which are up to two hour drives away, the park is a popular day trip destination from these cities.

However, for those who want to stay longer to really appreciate its stunning wilderness environment, the park also offers over 100 different camping options. Which ranges from RV and trailer sites with hookups for electricity and water, to primitive tent sites for seasoned, self-sufficient campers.

Activities

The park provides visitors with plenty of opportunities to engage in a wide selection of outdoor recreational pursuits.

Here is just a small selection of some of the many activities you can do during your time there.

Boating at Lake Bob Sandlin State Park

The shimmering waters of Lake Bob Sandlin State Park are a haven for those who enjoy boating.

Whether you choose to do this in a motorized vessel, via water skis, or in a kayak, canoe or stand up paddleboard is up to you. However, you are sure to be blown away by the shoreline scenery you will take in from your waterside perspective.

If you can, try and time your visit for the spring or fall, when the colors of the blooming flowers, or the autumn foliage add an almost mystical quality to your experience.

Swimming at Lake Bob Sandlin State Park

During the summer months temperatures at the park can get very hot and humid. So many people go for a swim in an attempt to cool off.

Although not lifeguarded, the invigorating freshwater lake is fairly tranquil. So you should have no problems if you go for a dip here, so long as you don’t venture too far out where the boats are.

Fishing at Lake Bob Sandlin State Park

For those who enjoy fishing, the park provides plenty of opportunities in which to cast a line all year round.

The likes of catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and radar sunfish are all found in abundance at Lake Bob Sandlin, while the trout pond is also well stocked too.

Anglers enjoy the use of a fishing pier, as well as a boat ramp. There is also a fish cleaning station available for those who want to prepare their catch for dinner.

Like with all state parks in Texas you do not need a license for fishing on the shore or a pier. However, you will need one if you intend to fish from a boat.

Hiking at Lake Bob Sandlin State Park

Accommodating more than three miles of scenic trails, hiking is a popular activity at the park.

Overall there are four trails that are considered easy and one moderate, all of which showcase the park’s stunning natural landscape, as well as historically significant sites.

Stretching for over a mile the Brim Pond Trail is the moderately difficult one. But it is worth attempting, as it takes you on a 20 minute adventure into a stunning woodland of pine, buckeye, fern and American beautyberry.

Of the easier trails, the Lakeview Loop is very popular as you can sometimes spot bald eagles while traversing it.

The Homestead Trail will take you to a lovely area where a local family built, and lived, in a historic residence back in the day.

Along these trails, you should see several geocachers as well, hunting for some of the many treasures that are waiting to be discovered in the park.

Pets at Lake Bob Sandlin State Park

Dogs are welcome to join you at the park although some restrictions may apply.

To ascertain what they are, it is worth getting in touch with the main office for further clarification.

Camping at Lake Bob Sandlin State Park

For those looking to spend a few nights at Lake Bob Sandlin State Park there are several accommodation options available to them. This includes 75 sites that come with hookups for water and 30-amp electricity. Nine of which are situated along the edge of the lake.

Each of these sites comes with their own picnic table and fire ring/grill. They also are situated near restrooms that come with hot showers. Some of these sites also have a shade shelter too.

In addition to them there are also 16 primitive hike-in campsites available. Situated between quarter of a mile and a mile from the parking area, these sites are across two areas and take up 100 square feet each.

These sites are non-reservable, and there is little in the way of amenities there except for chemical toilets. But they are heavily wooded and relatively flat, so provide shade and solitude for those who want to stay there.

As well as these options guests can also stay at one of 8 screened shelters which come with 20-amp electricity.

Please note, however, these do not have beds or air conditioning. But they are equipped with their own picnic tables, outdoor grills and fire rings.

For those who want to stay somewhere a little more upscale, there are also 8 cabins available that can each sleep 5 people. These cabins have air conditioning, electric wall heaters and water, but do not have bathrooms. Like the hookup sites, they are close to restrooms with showers though.

Park Location

Lake Bob Sandlin State Park
341 State, Park Rd 2117
Pittsburg, TX 75686
Phone: 903.572.5531

Website
Reservations

Map

Video

Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Lake Bob Sandlin State Park: