Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch

4.30

77 reviews

100 PW 4153, VALLEY VIEW, Texas, 76272, United States

Family FriendlySwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

679 ft

Price

$7/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Ray Roberts Lake State Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

679 ft

Price

$7/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Ray Roberts Lake State Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch

$7.00 - $7.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Day-use fee is $7 per day, per person, for visitors aged 13 and older. Additional fees apply for accommodations at Lone Star Lodge and Marina.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$25.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.30

Satisfactory

Based on 77 reviews

341 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciousbeachfriendly

Some mention

reservation

"User reviews are diverse, ranging from glowing praise for the park's facilities and natural beauty to criticisms of gate staff and the reservation system."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

100 PW 4153, VALLEY VIEW, Texas, 76272, United States

Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch

100 PW 4153, VALLEY VIEW, Texas, 76272, United States

Driving directionsFrom Fort Worth/Dallas: Take I-35 North to exit 483, Lone Oak Rd. Lone Oak Rd is approximately 15 miles North of Denton. Exit Lone Oak Rd, turn East for 7 miles to the park. Park entrance is on the right.

The campground is accessible via a paved road. Directions provided from I-35 suggest easy access without seasonal closures or challenging terrain.

Nearby places

Denton (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Pilot Point (2 miles, approximately 5 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Lone Star Lodge and Marina, located 2 miles west of Pilot Point on the east side of the lake, offers a full-service restaurant, horse rentals, and group facilities. Guest rooms start at $85/night + tax for up to 4 people. Contact Lone Star Lodge and Marina at 940-686-0261 for reservations.

Best Time to Camp at Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch

The magic of Ray Roberts Lake truly shines during spring's gentle awakening and fall's golden embrace, when comfortable temperatures create perfect camping conditions. These shoulder seasons offer crystal-clear days ideal for hiking and water activities without the crowds. Summer transforms the park into a bustling aquatic playground, though the Texas heat can be intense—making that swimming beach especially inviting. Winter brings a peaceful solitude to the campground, with crisp air and quieter trails for those seeking a more contemplative outdoor experience. Throughout the year, the lake's microclimate creates its own weather patterns, from morning mists to dramatic sunset skies.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Swimming and boating peak in summer but park is often crowded.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 14% in TX

Virginia creeper and oaks turn vivid crimson/golden; fall called a highlight season.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 24% in TX

Spring described as a 'gentle awakening' with comfortable temperatures ideal for visits.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Quieter in winter though some areas may be closed and fewer activities available.

Planning Tips

About Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch

Nestled along the shores of Ray Roberts Lake, Johnson Branch offers an exceptional outdoor retreat where modern comfort meets natural beauty. This well-loved state park welcomes visitors with generously sized campsites shaded by towering oaks, while pristine restrooms featuring hot showers ensure a comfortable stay. Adventure beckons at every turn—cast a line from the dedicated fishing pond, launch your boat into the sparkling waters, or spend lazy afternoons at the sandy swimming beach. Miles of meticulously maintained trails wind through the property, perfect for morning hikes or sunset strolls, while scattered picnic areas invite families to gather and create lasting memories beneath the Texas sky.

The park provides a mix of camping options, including sites for RVs, tents, and primitive camping, as well as group sites.

Weather and SeasonsThe magic of Ray Roberts Lake truly shines during spring's gentle awakening and fall's golden embrace, when comfortable temperatures create perfect camping conditions. These shoulder seasons offer crystal-clear days ideal for hiking and water activities without the crowds. Summer transforms the park into a bustling aquatic playground, though the Texas heat can be intense—making that swimming beach especially inviting. Winter brings a peaceful solitude to the campground, with crisp air and quieter trails for those seeking a more contemplative outdoor experience. Throughout the year, the lake's microclimate creates its own weather patterns, from morning mists to dramatic sunset skies.

ElevationElevation information is unavailable.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into a classic Texas woodland where majestic oak trees create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches draped with native Virginia creeper that transforms into a tapestry of crimson each fall. The understory bursts with wild greenbriar and other native plants (including poison ivy—nature's reminder to stay on the trails!). This diverse ecosystem provides a haven for local wildlife and creates an ever-changing backdrop for your camping adventure. The true jewel, however, is Ray Roberts Lake itself—its waters stretching to the horizon, reflecting endless Texas skies and offering a refreshing contrast to the shaded forest. Whether viewed from your campsite or explored by boat, the lake's presence defines the landscape and sets the rhythm for days spent in this natural paradise.

Geological RegionSituated in the heart of Texas's Region 6, this campground showcases the distinctive ecology where woodland meets water. The landscape tells the story of ancient geological forces that carved out the perfect basin for Ray Roberts Lake, now surrounded by quintessential Texas forest. Massive oaks dominate the canopy, their roots anchored in soil that supports a thriving understory of greenbriar, Virginia creeper, and yes, the ever-present poison ivy that adds authenticity to this wild space. This unique positioning creates an ideal habitat for both terrestrial and aquatic adventures, where the geological foundation supports everything from shaded hiking trails to prime fishing spots along the lake's varied shoreline.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in begins at 6 AM.

Check-out

Check-out required by 12 PM.

Groups

Designated group sites are available, accommodating more than 10 people. Sites 133 and 134 are recommended for larger groups.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are organized in loops, such as Walnut and Juniper, with varying proximity to amenities like restrooms and trails.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online or at the office.

Walk-in AvailabilityReservations are required to enter; walk-ups are accepted after certain times, subject to availability.

Cancellation PolicyIf your plans change, modify or cancel your reservation as soon as possible to allow someone else to enjoy the park.

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are described in the source material.

Site SizeCampsites are described as spacious with some offering additional privacy, while others are less secluded.

PrivacyMixed privacy; some campsites offer seclusion while others are more open and closely spaced.

Recommended SitesFor privacy and scenic views, site 133 and 134 at Oak Point primitive campsites are suggested for larger groups. Sites backing up to the lake provide enhanced views.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Ray Roberts Lake State Park - Johnson Branch offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors. These include hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, boating, wildlife viewing, and opportunities for picnicking and relaxing by the lake.

HikingHiking trails include a mix of paved and unpaved options. The paved trails are stroller-friendly, while the unpaved trails are better suited for more adventurous hikes. Some trails are marked with colors and letters, which may not correspond to the provided paper maps.

FishingFishing opportunities are abundant, both in the main lake and at designated kids' fishing ponds. However, some reviewers find fishing less rewarding, possibly due to environmental factors like flooding.

SwimmingA designated swimming beach is available with a shallow entry that is ideal for children. The lake water is generally described as warm and clean, though some visitors note a muddy lake bottom.

BikingBiking trails are extensive and cater to both casual and experienced riders. The park includes a 3-mile concrete trail and additional DORBA trails for off-road biking enthusiasts.

BoatingBoating is popular at the park. Kayaking is particularly highlighted, though visitors are advised to bring their own kayaks.

Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings include deer, rabbits, and birds. Some reviewers report limited wildlife visibility during their visits.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSeveral reviews mentioned the presence of poison ivy, snakes, spiders, and scorpions. Chiggers were also noted in tall grass areas.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted within designated areas. Firewood can be purchased near the dump site via a vending machine.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced during nighttime hours.

Emergency ServicesThe closest emergency services are likely based in nearby Denton, approximately 15 miles away, which includes hospitals and police stations.

Trash & RecyclingNo detailed information about trash and recycling facilities is provided in the source material.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to Ray Roberts Lake, providing access to swimming, fishing, and boating activities.

Camp HostCamp hosts are reportedly helpful and courteous, with mentions of specific hosts like Paul being highly accommodating.

Weather at Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch

Reviews

4.3

77 reviews

Satisfactory

Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are diverse, ranging from glowing praise for the park's facilities and natural beauty to criticisms of gate staff and the reservation system.

Review Summaries

Based on 77 reviews

What Campers Love

Many visitors praise the clean facilities, abundant recreational opportunities, and well-maintained trails. The spacious campsites and family-friendly swimming beach are frequently highlighted.

Based on 77 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback focuses on staff attitudes, the reservation system, and occasional overcrowding. Some reviewers also report issues with wildlife like snakes or insects and inconsistent trail...

Based on 77 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend taking a picture of trail maps before starting hikes, bringing bug spray, and arriving with reservations to avoid disappointment at the gate. Some suggest checking out Isle Du Bois...

Based on 77 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The park is described as crowded in summer but quieter in winter. Trails and facilities are well-used year-round, though some areas may be closed during rainy seasons.

Based on 77 reviews

Camper Quotes

"My goal is to hit almost every state park in Texas, but it’s hard when people at Ray Roberts are so wonderful and the grounds are amazing." "Bathrooms are clean. Definitely recommend for a day trip...

Based on 77 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 74 is described as spacious and clean, while sites 133 and 134 are recommended for groups. Juniper site 18 is praised for its level ground and proximity to restrooms.

Based on 77 reviews