
Sunset at Lake Ray Roberts. Photo: Morcup, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons.
Nestled in the bosom of northwest Texas, about one hour’s drive from Dallas and Fort Worth, lies the spectacular Ray Roberts Lake State Park.
Set around the picturesque shoreline of Ray Roberts Lake, this park is named in honor of US congressman Herbert Ray Roberts.
Providing a fabulous getaway for those who want to immerse themselves in nature, this Texas state park offers plenty of options for outdoor recreational activities on the water including sailing, waterskiing, canoeing, kayaking and SUP.
Swimming and fishing are also popular activities too, while away from the lake there are several forested trails to explore for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding.
In terms of camping options, visitors are also spoilt for choice. With over 340 sites available, that range from partial hookups for RVs and trailers to primitive tent sites, for those who want to stay for a few nights.
Activities
During your visit to the park you can engage in a range of outdoor pursuits.
Here are just a small sample of some of the many recreational activities you can partake in whilst there.
Water Recreation at Ray Roberts Lake State Park
With its wide surface area the lake is a haven for those who enjoy water based recreational activities.
The likes of sailing and waterskiing are all very popular here, as is canoeing, SUP and kayaking. Park visitors are free to bring along their own preferred watercraft, or rent one from the marina.
For those who enjoy swimming, there are two designated areas to do this at. But as neither of them are lifeguarded you will need to do so at your own risk.
The beach area here is also a fantastic place for sunbathing or to watch the sunset.
Fishing at Ray Roberts Lake State Park
Fishing opportunities abound at the lake all year round, with anglers having the choice of casting a line from the shore, a boat or the accessible pier.
The likes of catfish, crappie and largemouth bass are always biting here, and there is a fish cleaning station available for you to use too.
For those camping with kids, there is a fishing pond on offer which enables them to hone their skills.
Trails at Ray Roberts Lake State Park
Throughout the park there are several trails available that allow you to explore it via hiking or mountain biking.
Some of the most popular trails include the three mile long Dogwood Canyon Trail, which will take you past the northern shoreline of the lake.
Others include the Johnson Trail that takes you on a three mile journey around the park, and the longer 10-mile Greenbelt Corridor Trail which is perfect for those who enjoy nature watching.
Horseback Riding at Ray Roberts Lake State Park
As well as these hiking and biking trails, the park also has more than 25 miles of designated trails specifically set aside for horseback riding.
Taking you through the pine and oak trees, as well as along the lake’s stunning shoreline, it showcases some of the park’s most picturesque parts.
For those who don’t own, or didn’t bring a horse with them, they are available to rent at the Black Mustang Ranch.
Picnicking at Ray Roberts Lake State Park
If you are into picnicking the park offers several areas in which to do this, at both the Isle du Bois and Johnson areas.
Most of these are in the open, while a few are shaded, so you can pick one to suit your preference and weather conditions.
All of the picnic shelters come with tables and benches and you will also find playgrounds next to the picnic areas for kids to enjoy.
Pets at Ray Roberts Lake State Park
Pets are welcome to join you at the park, so you can feel free to bring your dog with you on your visit.
That said, some restrictions may be applicable. So, it is worth contacting the park’s main head office to clarify what they are.
Camping at Ray Roberts Lake State Park
For those who want to spend a few nights at the park, there are over 340 campsites available. Spread across two separate campgrounds, they provide plenty of different options for tents, trailers, RVs and those wanting to camp with their horse.
The Isle du Bois State Park Campground is the bigger of the two and accommodates 178 campsites in 5 different areas. While the Johnson Branch Campground has 165 campsites across 6 different areas.
Both of these campgrounds offer several camping options with 20-amp, 30-amp or 50-amp electricity, as well as water hookups. They also have a number of primitive tent sites too.
Amenities at these campgrounds include individual picnic tables, lantern posts and grills, as well as restrooms with flushing toilets and hot showers, and a dump station.
The Isle du Bois State Park Campground also has two group camping areas that can sleep up to 24 people each, as well as an amphitheater.
If you would prefer to stay somewhere a bit more upscale, the Lone Star Lodge and Marina is a terrific option.
Perched atop a high ridge that overlooks Ray Roberts Lake, it showcases stunning views and provides comfortable, well appointed rooms with double beds.
For those who intend to visit the park with their horse, there is an equestrian campground available in the Blue Stem Groove section of the Isles du Bois unit.
You’ll find 14 equestrian sites here that come with their own picnic tables, lantern posts, fire rings, and bathrooms. As it is a dry camping area, it doesn’t have any electricity or water – although for campers, portable drinking water is situated nearby.
Park Location
Ray Roberts Lake State Park
100 P W 4137
Pilot Point, TX 76258
Phone: 940.686.2148
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Ray Roberts Lake State Park:
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