Best Camping in and near Purtis Creek State Park

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Hooking a bass is the big draw at this lakeside getaway.

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Stay at a public campground in Purtis Creek State Park

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Purtis Creek Campground

78 sites · RVs, Tents In Purtis Creek State Park

from

$8

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Top-rated campgrounds near Purtis Creek State Park

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Texas Safari Camp

54 sites · Lodging, Tents31 acres · Kaufman, TX

Welcome to Texas Safari Camp Escape the stresses of city living on this heavily wooded 31 acre pristine wildlife habitat. Relax your body, refresh your mind, heart and spirit. Only one hour east of Dallas but it feels like another world. This piece of east Texas paradise is 20 minutes from Buc-ee's, restaurants, grocery stores and about 25 minutes from Canton First Monday. We offer a much more personal experience than any State Park. Your host is Randall Oliver, a woodworking artist whose energy, creative vision and love of the outdoors have transformed this property into the jewel that it is. He has been organizing group campouts for 30 years and enjoys hosting, bringing people together and inspiring a passion for the outdoors. Everyone is welcomed regardless of race, religion, color, creed or sexual orientation. Randall enjoys sitting around the campfire with his guests, sharing stories, laughter and good will. He can teach your kids how to build a campfire and paddle a kayak. This property is his back yard and the people who camp here are treated like family. One of our most popular traditions is our Saturday night potluck dinner. Sharing food is the most social thing people can do. It is usually served indoors around 6:30 and it is always a feast! Some folks will eat indoors, some will eat outside around the campfire. After dinner everyone needs to help with the kitchen cleanup. Participation is optional, just bring a real food contribution and join us! At the end of a one lane rock road- this is a very secluded, QUIET and safe property. It is perfect for tent campers (sorry no RV's) with abundant clean, flat tent sites. It's positive vibe attracts good people (including a lot of first time campers) and is more peaceful and relaxing than most state parks. It is next to a 950 acre wildlife park. The Texas Zoofari Park has 900 exotic animals, many can be seen from the road (or you can pay to drive through). This can make for some interesting wildlife noises while sitting around a campfire. While it adjoins the wildlife park on two sides, Texas Safari Camp is in no way affiliated with Texas Zoofari Park. The only clearing has been done around the ponds. No hunting is allowed. It has never been in ag use and all of the native brush and cover has been left to benefit the wildlife. Imagine two ponds in the middle of a forest. Enjoy swimming and kayaking in the clear water front pond. Kayaks and paddleboards are available on request. Both ponds are stocked with bass, cat, crappie and bluegill. There is plenty of room for camping around the front pond and four established communal fire pits. You can camp on the front berm for an elevated view of the property. The back pond has a camping area with a firepit. Deep in the jungle, it offers a higher degree of seclusion but it is farther from the parking areas and outhouses. There are no preassigned campsites- it is first come first serve. Camping is $22 per person per night. Kids 12 and under are $12.00 per kid per night. Friendly, non barking and leashed dogs are welcome. People who bring big, aggressive dogs or dogs that bark constantly will be asked to leave and given a refund. Most people camp around the front pond but you can camp anywhere. Campfires are restricted to the existing fire rings. There is a rustic outhouse with a modern, ventilated composting toilet and sink and a hummingbird window touch of class. Water and electricity is available behind my home as well as an open air cold water shower. The hand crafted Hummingbird Treehouse has leaded glass windows, screened operable windows and a loft sleeping area with an operable porthole window. It overlooks the front pond and features a full size bed, lights and outdoor tables and chairs. Bring your own sleeping bags to enjoy this comfortable and classy alternative to tent camping. It rents for $80 per night for two people. No food, smoking or pets are allowed in the tree house. Texas Safari Camp Rules There are no specific site reservations so it’s first come, first served. Tent camping only- no vehicles allowed on the property. Off road wagons are provided for hauling your gear back to camp. Front pond camping areas are 30-100 yards from the two parking areas. Wagons must be returned to parking area after being unloaded. Careful, humane catch and release fishing only in the two ponds and only single, barbless hooks are allowed. There is some split firewood and you can gather and burn sticks off the ground. No chainsaws, no cutting, carving or harvesting wood from trees. All garbage (including food scraps) must be packed out. No burning of garbage. If you don't take all of your garbage with you I charge $10 per adult for me to take your garbage to the dump. Parents of non swimming children must provide a personal flotation device (PFD / life jacket) and personally supervise their swimming. No sun block or insect repellent can be used by swimmers. Kids and adults must have headlights and appropriate footwear. This is a jungle, not somewhere you should walk around at night without a flashlight and sandals. All forms of hunting, guns, bow and arrows, bb guns, slingshots and weapons of any kind are forbidden. No electronic music is allowed (without ear buds), acoustic music is allowed but there is a 10pm to 8am curfew for noise. Campers must be respectful of the property and other campers. Auto alarms must be disabled. Loud, vulgar and drunken behavior, fireworks, generators or anything that disrupts the peace and tranquility of the property is forbidden. Property has minimal cellular service.

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Llama Land Ranch

112 sites · RVs, Tents101 acres · Tool, TX

Property has been in family since 1987. The land has a rich history of wild boars and other wildlife. There is a live creek that runs along one of the property lines and is 50 ft deep. Pastures are mowed three times a year and always look beautiful. There is some terrain that is rough and the land has not been traveled. Bring machetes and a compass (We are not a rescue team). The land is ready to be loved by our visitors. The llamas will come to greet you and so will many more things in this wonderful place. We are conveniently located in a secluded area, but just a short drive from many local conveniences. Come enjoy the beautiful landscape and make memories you can treasure forever. You can also check out our website at www.llamalandranch.com

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Heavenly Haven & Hideaways

7 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Tyler, TX

Besides being surrounded by beautiful scenery, it just feels good being here. Getting out and exploring is a wonderful escape from the everyday grind. We love hosting campers and work toward making sure folks feel welcome and comfortable. We were living in the north Dallas area but always had a desire to buy some land and have a little more 'elbow room'. We were avid RVers for many years, but when that chapter closed, we missed 'glamping'. When we found our property, we knew we wanted to share this beauty, nature, and space with others as a campground. Heavenly Haven & Hideaways has been a God-inspired project, born out of our love for people, adventure, and the outdoors. Our beautiful property has RV spots, and tent camping ready now and we're currently building 2 cabins that should be available soon. There's easy access to our family and pet friendly campground in Tyler, Texas. We've set up a large communal firepit and fun outdoor games like tether ball, a volleyball net, horseshoes, and more. There's an open field for frisbee or tossing a ball around. We've cut in a lot of hiking trails that you can hike and explore our 60-acre property that includes an always-running creek. We're within a few miles of Tyler State Park which is great for bike riding & swimming in their lake. You can also rent paddle boats there. We're within a few miles of the Tyler Zoo -which is a surprisingly excellent zoo. There are several museums, shopping areas, and great food establishments in and around Tyler. Nearby Lindale also has the Pink Pistol, a Miranda Lambert store, and other neat places. Or, if you enjoy sitting by the camp fire, enjoying smores and visiting, you can do that too. Come visit us in east Texas so you can rest, play, hike, explore. https://www.facebook.com/heavenly.haven.and.hideaways

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A Little Piece of Paradise

84 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents150 acres · Terrell, TX

A little piece of paradise, a rustic country place near the sky to breathe fresh air, hear the birds sing, fish if you like fishing, enough space to walk among the trees and enjoy nature, if you are lucky you will see the deer or wild pigs . The property has a house, a cabin and in the middle of the two there is a pool next to a small lake (if Reserve it 3 nights the pool be came exclusive), a barbecue gas grill and tables for a small pool party The property is outside of the city limits but is close to the city, 15 minutes from walmart. If you have specific questions fill free to text. Wifi upon request. We have deer during the season, wild hogs, a temporary river, creek, several ponds to fish, area to to ride ATVs, many trees, plus we are working in developing for more activities in the future

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Shiloh on the Lake

116 sites · Lodging, RVs20 acres · Malakoff, TX

Serene Beauty, Adventure at Cedar Creek Lake, East Texas! On the shores of beautiful Cedar Creek Lake in Henderson County, Texas, Shiloh on the Lake is your home away from home for cozy lodging, camping, events, water sports, and nature watching. Located just 1 hour southeast of the D/FW metroplex and 15 minutes from Athens, we are on the western edge of the Piney Woods. From wakeboarder to fisherman, from hiker to front-porch bird watcher, you will find your perfect spot on our spacious and wooded 48 acres and nearly 2000 feet of shoreline.” Whether you’re a thrill-seeker on a wakeboard, a patient angler casting your line, a nature explorer on the trails, or a tranquil observer of the world from your porch, discover your ideal sanctuary on our expansive 48 acres of wooded beauty, alongside almost 2000 feet of peaceful shoreline.

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(24)

The Retreat @ Borah Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Tyler, TX

Learn more about this land: Several campsites to choose from! Sterling pond, open space or The creek....you choose your ideal location! We are right outside of Tyler and down the road from easy access to I-20. Only 20 minutes from Tyler State Park! We have marked walking trails with a map. Robert and I are blessed with land and want to share the great outdoors with people looking to get away! Check the add on page!

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(584)

Sandy Ridge Camping

12 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Canton, TX

We're happy that we can open up our land for campers. Before booking please read the following information and site descriptions. We operate a pecan tree nursery and Pecan Orchard. On the south side of the farmhouse is a 80-year-old huge pecan tree. You can enjoy wooded walking paths in the 90-acre forest and pastures, ponds and wildlife, including deer, wild hogs, hawks, owls, roadrunners, doves, cardinals, jays, woodpeckers, mockingbirds, and many other species of birds. Small mammals such as armadillos, rabbits, and squirrels are often seen, and the property is also awesome for stargazing. Please watch out for snakes, scorpions, pesky mosquitoes and ticks. This land has been a huge blessing to us and we hope you will enjoy your stay here. Arrival time should be no later than 9pm. Please inquire before booking if your arrival time might be later. Thank you.

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(6)

Coyote Campground

8 sites · Lodging, Tents14 acres · Lindale, TX

I4 acres with spring-fed creek, just a few minutes from Lindale restaurants and supplies. For more info about the tiny house or yurt rentals, please inquire. It has extended acreage with multiple ecosystems. I just found a spring and will be doing livestock. I just built an outdoor kitchen area and camp shower (need propane tank). There is an RV plug, electricity, and a water hose. There is a garage on the property that should remain locked; if you have an ATV or something you want to lock up, we can discuss garage access if need be (for a fee). You will need 4-wheel drive for the lower parts of the property, but the top has water and electricity, and any car will be fine. As this is an outdoor area, there are poisonous bugs and snakes. I have never had a problem, but this is notice that you agree to assume all liability and responsibility for your party by camping at this property.

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Quiet Spot on 3 Acres

12 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Kaufman, TX

I rent out rooms in my big custom house (all my kids have moved on) and camping space on the property. I love to meet new people who are traveling through my area! Learn more about this land: I'm not in the middle of nowhere, but my neighbors all have at least 3-5 acres. It's always quiet out here, except for the birds and occasional coyote in the distance. I have what Hipcamp calls a flexible cancellation policy. Simply cancel on the site 24 hours prior to your check in for a full refund.

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The Fabulous Bok Vegas, Texas

50 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents25 acres · Palestine, TX

If you're yearning for a day filled with laughter, learning, and heartwarming encounters, the Fabulous Bok Vegas Petting Zoo (open by appointment - under construction), RV Park and Campground is a destination you shouldn't miss. Farm Day Passes are also available. Whether you're a local looking for a peaceful escape or a traveler seeking unique experiences, this charming sanctuary promises an unforgettable adventure. You can enjoy hiking, wildlife, interacting with farm animals at the Fabulous Bok Vegas Interactive Petting Zoo, tours, educational presentations, archery and more. The farm is close to fishing at Lake Palestine, First Monday in Canton and shopping in historical Palestine and Athens town squares. We are a family owned and operated 25-acre farm. We log and mill our own wood for construction projects, so expect to see stacks of limbs here and there as we continue to expand, especially during a burn ban.

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Fisherman's Point Marina Resort

45 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Streetman, TX

Come enjoy our facility with boat ramp, swimming, RV sites, cabins, general store and Café. We have: The General Store (Bait House). The Lighthouse Café. Full access boat ramp. 9 cabins (each sleeps 3 to 6 people). 4 bedroom lodge (sleeps up to 12) for reunions, parties, meetings & good ol’ fashioned get togethers. Campground with 50 campsites: 23 sites with water, electricity & sewer. 22 sites with water & electricity. 5 sites with water only. 33 sites are on water’s edge or have unobstructed water view. Family swimming hole. Lots of shore line for fishing, swimming and water sports.

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Golden Curls Ranch

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Kaufman, TX

Gorgeous old oak trees shade the land that has seen many inhabitants, from Native Americans to our three generations, who love the fauna and flora on the edge of East Texas. The sandy loam soil is prefect for our horses and cattle and we are only 30 miles from the hustle and bustle of the Big D.Learn more about this land:We are a working ranch with cattle, horses, chickens, goats, pigs, llamas and more. We offer guided trail rides with our Curly Mustangs who are gentle and calm through the flora and fauna filled forest and pasture for an additional cost if you are up for a real ranch experience. Please contact us in advance for the availability of trail rides. Spend the day fishing, play a few games of horseshoes and enjoy watching our gentle critters as they munch away. As evening sets, pitch a tent and feel free to relax by a fire as you view some of the most beautiful stars of the big sky of the Lone Star State. We have private hot showers and restroom accommodations in our sixteen stall barn. Horse boarding available for an additional fee. While we are only 30 miles from Dallas, you will feel the quiet beauty of country living at Golden Curls Ranch.

The best camping near Purtis Creek State Park guide

Overview

About

The 355-acre lake at Purtis Creek State Park is a fishing paradise. Whether you cast a line from one of the many fishing piers or BYOB (bring your own boat) to cruise around the lake, there’s every chance to catch and release a largemouth bass, or snag a catfish or crappie for your lakeside picnic. If fishing’s not your bag, five walking and biking trails are suitable for the whole family, and swimming is always a good time. At Purtis Creek Campground, campers can choose from walk-in, primitive sites on the north shore of the lake, water-only sites to the south, or RV camping at the main campground.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve one of the park’s 59 campsites in advance via the Texas State Parks website. Weekly rates are available in the low season (December through February).
Campsite reservations open five months in advance.
Campsites book up fast for summer and holiday weekends—book as early as possible, especially if you have a particular site in mind (such as campsites #21-#23, right by the water).

When to go

Purtis Creek State Park is open year-round, but the most popular time to visit is from late spring through early autumn. With average daytime temperatures reaching over 90°F in summer, it’s the ideal time for swimming and cruising the lake. Late summer also reportedly has the highest catch rates for largemouth bass, so take note if you want to hook a big one.

Know before you go

Purtis Creek State Park is located 62 miles southeast of Dallas or about a 1-hour drive away.
Park entrance fees are required in addition to camping fees, and general entrance reservations can be made up to one month in advance.
Facilities in the park include restrooms, picnic benches, fish washing stations, and a park store selling outdoor equipment, fishing supplies, and ice. You can purchase groceries and fuel in Eustace, a 5-minute drive away.
You can bring your own boat or watercraft to Purtis Creek State Park. There is a limit of 50 no-wake motorized boats on the lake at any time.
Fishing tackle is available to rent, and no fishing license is required. There is a catch-and-release policy on bass fishing, plus daily limits of five catfish and 25 crappies per person.
Purtis Creek Campground includes wheelchair-accessible campsites and restrooms