The best camping near Atlanta State Park

Fringed by lush pine and hardwood forests on the southern shores of Wright Patman Lake, Atlanta State Park is one of northeast Texas’ (yes, Texas, not Georgia) most idyllic camping spots. There’s plenty to explore in the park, from easy hiking trails and lakeside lookouts to Native American heritage trails and birdwatching by the lake. Getting on the water is a must—rent a canoe or kayak, launch your own watercraft from the boat ramps, cool off with a swim, or try your luck fishing for a 75-pound catfish. Campers have three campgrounds to choose from, two on the lakefront.

• Best for families: Knights Bluff Camping Area is well-equipped with full hook-ups, flush toilets, and hot showers. There’ s even a sand volleyball pit.
• Best for outdoor adventurers: White Oak Ridge Camping Area has the beach, a boat ramp, and hiking trails on its doorstep.
• Best for hikers: Wilkins Creek Camping Area has easy access to the White Oak Ridge Trail and Hickory Hollow Nature Trail.

1. You can reserve one of the park’s 58 campsites in advance via the Texas State Parks website.
2. Campsite reservations open five months in advance, while the picnic pavilion can be booked up to 12 months in advance. 
3. Campsites can book up as fast, especially on summer and holiday weekends, so book at least three months in advance for the best spots.

Atlanta State Park is open year-round, but summer is peak season and the best time for swimming and water sports. To avoid the crowds, opt for a springtime visit, when dogwoods and other wildflowers add a pop of color to the lakeside, or in fall, when the forests transform with a blaze of autumn leaves. If you can brave the cold, winter is the best time for bird-watching.

• Atlanta State Park is located 11 miles northwest of Atlanta, Texas, or about a 20-minute drive away.
• Park entrance fees are payable in addition to camping fees, and general entrance reservations can be made up to one month in advance.
• Facilities include restrooms, picnic benches, canoe and kayak rentals, volleyball and basketball courts, two boat ramps, and a fish cleaning station. A state park store sells souvenirs, fishing supplies, ice, and soft drinks. Bring everything else you need with you. 
• Bird watching is a highlight in this state park, so pack your binoculars.