The best camping near Lake Bob Sandlin State Park

With a name like Bob, you'd think this is a ho-hum location. Or, maybe the fishing is great. Well, the second part is correct. Drive about 10 miles south of Mount Pleasant to this 641-acre wilderness park. The lake is 9,000-surface acres in northeast Texas.

BYOB (bring your own boat) to explore cozy inlets and find your perfect fishing spot. There's Lake Cypress Springs and Lake Monticello, too, for triple the fishing fun. If you didn't bring a boat, the fishing pier offers a chance to get in deeper waters. Anglers love catching largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie.

An old-growth forest gives way to prairie and grasslands. As such, you can see an interesting mix of wildlife here. Around 3.3 miles of trails let you walk or bike. Fall time is great because the huge trees turn red, yellow, and orange.

Up to 75 first-come, first-served campsites with water and electricity. Nine of them are by the water's edge. There are 16 rustic, hike-in campsites.

• Waterfront Campsites: Wake up to serene lake views at one of the 75 campsites with water and electricity.
• Screened Shelters: Enjoy a comfortable retreat from the elements in one of the park's screened shelters.
• Primitive Campsites: For a more rustic experience, set up your tent at a secluded primitive campsite.

• Book early, especially if planning to visit during the busy season from March through October.
• Check the park's reservation system regularly for cancellations to grab a spot.
• Consider visiting during the off-peak season for better availability.
• Explore nearby camping options if the park is fully booked.

The best time to visit Lake Bob Sandlin State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is vibrant. The park's busy season runs from March through October, so plan ahead for larger crowds. Winters are quieter but can be chilly, and summers offer warm water activities but with higher temperatures.

• Review water safety tips before engaging in any water activities.
• Reservations are highly recommended to guarantee entry, especially during peak times.
• Remember, you don't need a fishing license to fish from shore or pier in the park.
• Check the National Weather Service forecast for the area before your visit.
• Be aware of the park's office hours, from 8:15am to 4:30pm, and gate hours, from 6am to 10pm daily.