RV Rental Ray Roberts Lake State Park

Ray Roberts Lake State Park is located smack bang in the middle of Texas, not far from the sprawling metropolis of Dallas. Ten minutes from both Interstate Route 35 and Highway 377, those traveling from Denton, TX or Oklahoma City, OK can easily reach the park.

The state park takes its name from Ray Roberts, an influential Texan man in the mid 20th century. As a member of Texas’ 4th Congressional District, he was a keen advocate for water conservation in the state. In fact, he was so passionate that he helped to assure the money to build the Aubrey Reservoir, later named Ray Roberts Lake.

Sprawling across a vast 30,000 acres there is so much space for outdoor activities when you book an RV in Ray Roberts Lake State Park.

Getting Outdoors

Whether you prefer to get on the water or stay on dry land, there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy when you camp at Ray Roberts Lake State Park. The lake is undoubtedly the biggest feature of the park and boasts plenty of recreational activities.

RV camping at Ray Roberts Lake State Park with a boat is an excellent way to get to know the lake. There are around seven public boat ramps evenly dotted around the lake’s shoreline, making it accessible no matter where you are coming from. If you don’t have your own boat, consider renting one from the marina. Choose between a luxury motorized boat or an old-school kayak to enjoy a peaceful sail on the lake.

It is well worth taking your fishing rod with you whilst you are out on the open water. The lake has a healthy population of largemouth bass that live in the rivers deeper waters and make for a delicious meal. For those that wish to fish from the shores, fear not, as there are plenty of other fish that live in the shallower water such as catfish and crappie. Handily, there are several fish cleaning stations dotted around the shores, making it easy enough to prepare a catch before taking it home.

Ray Roberts Lake State Park is also an excellent choice for any keen hikers with an RV rental in the area. There are several trails scattered throughout the park; however, the Greenbelt Corridor is undoubtedly one of the most scenic trails. This 20-mile multi-use trail runs from the Ray Roberts Dam all the way to Lewisville Lake near Lewisville, winding through an area of rugged wilderness. Whether you prefer to go by foot, bike or horseback, this trail caters for you.

Camping at Ray Roberts Lake State Park

Camping with an RV here could not be easier thanks to two main campgrounds that can be found within Ray Roberts Lake State Park. Which campground you choose completely depends on what you are hoping to get out of your stay. Choose the Isle Du Bois campground for closer proximity to the larger cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, but do expect a slightly more crowded campsite thanks to the large fishing pier here. Alternatively, motorhome camping at The Johnson Branch campground, although slightly smaller, can provide a more tranquil experience with unmissable picturesque sunrises and sunsets over the lake.

In terms of amenities, both campgrounds offer similar facilities. The park offers a choice of over one hundred sites organized under a canopy of trees. As well as modern washroom facilities, with hot showers and flushing toilets, each campsite comes complete with a picnic table and fire pit. The majority of the campsites also come equipped with electric and water hook-ups, ideal for those who prefer their creature comforts! For any larger parties, make sure to call ahead as the campsite can organize a group section with a private pavilion that can accommodate up to fifty people.

Exploring the Area

Renting an RV near Ray Roberts Lake State Park will give you plenty of opportunities to explore the nearby attractions.

The Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch is one of the most popular attractions in the area and just a five-minute drive from the Ray Roberts Lake State Park. This 126-acre educational park is open to the public every weekend and houses an interesting array of exotic species. As well as over twenty different species of animals to discover, why not take part in one of the daily interactive petting hours that allow you to get up, close, and personal with the like of camels and goats. This extensive park is best explored via the Safari Tram that winds through the park and provides an interesting commentary from the informative driver.

Renting an RV here also means you will be within driving distance to the spectacular Tulip farm, Texas Tulips. This seasonal plant nursery operates from February to March, however, make sure to check their website as the weather can dramatically change the season year by year. With over 100 different types of tulips to view, all of varying vivid colors, come here to pick your own unique bunch, and the staff will carefully wrap it for you to take home. A unique and truly beautiful experience.

For those that were hoping for some more cultural attractions during their vacation, head into Denton for an extensive selection of galleries and museums. The Denton County African American Museum is considered to be one of the best in the county. Free to enter, and full of interesting exhibitions that tell the stories of African American families who lived in Denton at the end of the 19th century, this museum is well worth a few hours of your time. Alternatively, visit the Appleton Arts Center to witness the local community’s more creative side. Acting as a platform for local artists to express themselves, the art center curates some truly unique exhibitions. Admission is free, and a guided tour comes highly recommended to help make the most out of your visit!