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The best camping near Purtis Creek State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Purtis Creek adventure.

100% (6 reviews)
100% (6 reviews)

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

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Purtis Creek State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Purtis Creek State Park

100%
(832)

Llama Land Ranch

222 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
from 
$8
 / night
100%
(5)

Texas Safari Camp

64 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. His 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, inspiring a passion for the outdoors and sincerely welcomes everyone, regardless of race, religion, color, creed or sexual orientation. He looks forward to 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 feel like family. 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. This is an environmentally important property. It is part of the largest old growth hardwood creek bottom in Kaufman county. 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. Two kayaks and two paddleboards are provided. Both ponds are stocked with bass, cat, crappie and bluegill. You can hike the jungle trail back to a peaceful, secluded seating area we call Heaven. There are three camping areas with fire pits overlooking the front pond- the Smokey Hollow, the Waterfront and the Little Forest areas. 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. Day visits are $12 each for kids and adults, payable in cash upon arrival. Friendly, non barking and leashed dogs are allowed for free. Most people camp around the front pond but you can camp anywhere except right behind my home. 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. You can gather and burn sticks off the ground and split oak firewood can be purchased. No chainsaws, no cutting, carving or harvesting wood from trees. All garbage (including food scraps) must be packed out. No burning of garbage. 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. 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 9am 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.
from 
$22
 / night
91%
(69)

Tara Vineyard & Winery estate

19 sites ¡ Tents50 acres ¡ Athens, TX
Peaceful, quiet, luxurious, historic, wine country experience. Tara Winery offers a unique vineyard and winery resort style experience. Discover Tara and the myths surrounding the secrets of the vines. TARA was named after the sailboat TARA, pierce family started the vineyard in 2006 and opened the winery in 2007. The historic Murchison mansion is an iconic structure in the midst of the vines. Onsite tasting room and restaurant with share plates and full meals. In 2023, we have added a beautiful 50 ft pool with lovely water features, there is an activity fee to use the pool. Please plan to arrive before dark, so you can get settled in the daylight. We do not have 24 hour staff. Learn more about this land: Camping throughout the Tara Vineyard property.  We have primitive sites available in the wooded trail. If you would like a beautiful view of the winery property, ground camping throughout the vineyard is available and most popular ! There is quick access to our winery and food service if you prefer to relax under our covered patio, or pick up a rib eye or filet  from the chef and cook it yourself on your propane grill our our community grill. Enjoy your hand crafted estate wine from TARA winery while camping under the stars. You can be among others or select a remote location. Fires permitted only in designed fire pits. No exceptions.
from 
$34
 / night
94%
(40)

A Little Piece of Paradise

83 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents150 acres ¡ Terrell, TX
A little piece of paradise, a 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 pool (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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$59.99
 / night

Learning Gardens

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents50 acres ¡ Murchison, TX
The “Learning Gardens” is an off the grid working homestead, located between Canton and Athens, about 15 minutes from each town. The Learning gardens is primarily focused on growing food with a holistic regenerative approach. This is an ideal place for those passionate about growing food and learning about sustainable living! We have ongoing projects and between the greenhouses and gardens, there is always something growing and lessons to learn. Campers are welcomed to explore the gardens, participate hands on if they desire, and harvest fresh food when it’s available! There are a variety of campsites around the homestead that have access to numerous trails, a small lake and some ponds.
from 
$29
 / night
Booked 2 times

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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$55
 / night
Booked 7 times

The Fabulous Bok Vegas, Texas

67 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. 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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$10
 / night
100%
(15)

3 L Farm

10 sites ¡ RVs, Tents40 acres ¡ Trinidad, TX
Within 10 minutes of Cedar Creek Lake! Back in the depression days, back before WWII, they cut off part of the river to increase food supply. Great for canoeing and fishing. We have 40 acres for you to camp on and have access to anything nearby. In the summertime, you can pick all the grapes you can possibly carry out of there. 1 hour from First Monday Trade Days, which is the largest flea market in the US! Learn more about this land:50 acres of land, located 10 min. from Cedar Creek Lake. There are also several other waterways for fishing and canoeing within 10 min. of this property. It is also 45 min. from the famous First Monday Trade Days in Canton, Texas. The property is a combination of rolling pasture and dense woods. Water and electricity are available at the entrance of property.
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$25
 / night
100%
(2)

Opalvalleytx

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Mabank, TX
It's 10 acres. We have a camper/rv hook up at top of the property. Vegetable garden if your nice well share or sell. Heavily treed area. Is house in front of property. Road leads down to the pasture where there's room for camping next to the pond. We keep well landscaped. Private fishing at our pond can eat water you catch and cook on the top of the line grill. The last 7 acres is a pathway heavily treed on both sides you may explore or ride 4 wheeler golf carts. We have a burn pit that's being turned into a fire pit for bonfires. We are continuing to build on the property will soon add a shower and bathroom option not available yet. We get wildlife from birds to frongs turtles and deer we do not promote or allow deer hunting on our property. Very beautiful flowers trees garden. Water feature in the making. We expect respect of our property there's a dumpster at the front of the property that can be used. Water hose does run out to the pasture as well if needed. Tiny homes are soon to come in the form of tree houses. Might see the neighbors cattle or chickens and chick's. We do warn about the rare occasional snakes as we are in the country outside count lines. We'll do all we can to accommodate wants and needs to make it a memorable stay
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$50
 / night
Booked 3 times

County Line Arena & Event Center

18 sites ¡ RVs, Tents68 acres ¡ Wills Point, TX
Welcome to our expansive 44,000-square-foot arena, where adventure and relaxation meet in the heart of nature's beauty. Located conveniently along I-20, our venue offers a diverse range of amenities to ensure an unforgettable experience for all our guests. Whether you're arriving in your RV or prefer primitive camping, we have you covered with eight spacious RV spots, each offering convenient access to our facilities. While we don't offer septic hookups, our on-site bathrooms provide comfort and convenience during your stay. For outdoor enthusiasts, our nine acres of stocked fishing ponds offer ample opportunities for angling adventures. Whether you're casting your line or simply enjoying the serene surroundings, our ponds provide a peaceful escape into nature's tranquility. During events, our food truck serves up delicious fare to satisfy your hunger cravings, ensuring you stay energized for all your adventures. With the beautiful scenery surrounding our arena, you'll find plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the great outdoors. Whether you're seeking relaxation or excitement, our venue promises an unparalleled experience for all who visit. Come join us and discover the perfect blend of adventure and serenity right here along I-20.
from 
$40
 / night
100%
(564)

Sandy Ridge Camping

12 sites ¡ RVs, Tents90 acres ¡ Canton, TX
We're happy that we can open up our land for campers. We operate a pecan tree nursery and Pecan Orchard. On the south side of the farmhouse is a 80-year-old native pecan tree. You can enjoy wooded walking paths in the 80-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.
from 
$40
 / night
100%
(2)

Boar Creek Campgrounds

20 sites ¡ Tents23 acres ¡ Van, TX
24 acres open spaces and wooded. 5 acre catch and release fishing ponds. Cut path in the woods for walking, running, biking. Available for primitive tent camping and RV boon-docking. Near shower and restroom facilities but not onsite. Close to many local amenities. Canton Trades Day and Tyler Texas both a short drive away.
from 
$22
 / night

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

  1. 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).
  2. Campsite reservations open five months in advance. 
  3. 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

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