BRA Area #4 North

For Texans, the vast and varied landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, and camping is a quintessential way to experience it all. Whether you’re an experienced camper looking to pitch a tent by the water, a family seeking a fun-filled weekend, or an angler eager to cast a line, selecting the right campground is key to a memorable outing. A campground provides not just a place to set up camp, but also a gateway to natural wonders, recreational activities, and a chance to reconnect with the outdoors. This article introduces you to BRA Area #4 North, a popular public use area managed by the Brazos River Authority (BRA) at the magnificent Possum Kingdom Lake near Graford, Texas, highlighting its facilities and why it's a fantastic destination for Texans of all ages.

Campgrounds are designated areas, often within state parks, national forests, or managed public lands like those by the Brazos River Authority, that allow for overnight stays in tents, RVs, or other camping setups. They vary widely in their amenities, from primitive sites with no facilities to developed areas with restrooms, showers, and even recreational equipment. In Texas, campgrounds are invaluable for accessing the state's numerous lakes, rivers, and natural parks, providing affordable and immersive ways to enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. BRA Area #4 North, specifically, is known for its well-maintained facilities and prime location on Possum Kingdom Lake, making it a favorite among those who appreciate accessible outdoor recreation. Its structure as a public use area ensures it's often more about direct interaction with nature and less about commercial amenities, which appeals to true outdoor enthusiasts.

BRA Area #4 North is strategically located at 2053 FM2951, Graford, TX 76449, USA. This address places it squarely within the scenic region surrounding Possum Kingdom Lake, one of Texas's most iconic and beloved reservoirs. Possum Kingdom Lake, known for its stunning clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and "Hell's Gate" rock formation, is a premier destination for water sports and outdoor activities. Graford, the nearest town, provides local services and a quaint community feel. The park's specific location on FM2951 positions it along a key road that traverses the area, offering excellent access to the lake and other public use areas managed by the Brazos River Authority. This prime spot ensures that visitors are immersed in the natural beauty of the area, with direct access to the lake's shores and all the recreation it offers.

The accessibility of BRA Area #4 North is a significant benefit for campers. Situated on FM2951, the park is easily reachable from major Texas highways that connect to the Possum Kingdom Lake area. For instance, travelers can reach the park by taking SH 16 from Graham or SH 254 from Graford, then connecting to FM 2951. Its location on the north side of the road, approximately 1-1/3 miles after the junction with Park Road 36, is well-signed, making it straightforward to find. As part of the Brazos River Authority's public use areas, BRA Area #4 North is designed for public convenience, offering easy in-and-out access for vehicles. This accessibility, combined with its direct connection to the vast recreational opportunities of Possum Kingdom Lake, makes it a highly convenient and desirable destination for day-trippers and campers alike who are seeking a natural escape in Central Texas.

BRA Area #4 North, also known as North D&D, is a developed public use area offering a range of essential services and facilities to enhance the camping and day-use experience. While it doesn't provide RV hookups (as is common for many BRA public campgrounds), it focuses on fundamental amenities that support outdoor recreation:

• Campsites: Approximately 75 campsites are available, including several accessible sites. These are typically tent camping sites and are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservations needed.
• Sheltered Campsites: 36 campsites are equipped with a shelter top and slab, providing shade and a solid base.
• Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic tables, some with fire pits and grills, are scattered throughout the park, perfect for outdoor meals and gatherings.
• Restroom Facilities: Accessible restrooms are available for public use.
• Shower Facilities: The park provides showers, a significant convenience for campers after a day of lake activities.
• Boat Ramp: A boat ramp is available, capable of accommodating all types of boats, although accessibility may vary with lake levels. There is also a courtesy dock.
• Designated Swim Area: A marked area for swimming provides a safe space for enjoying the lake.
• Playground Equipment: A new kids' playground area, designed for children ages 2-12, offers swings, slides, spinners, and climbing areas, with ADA accessibility and safety surfacing.
• Vehicle Parking: Ample vehicle parking is available for both day-use visitors and campers.

The features and highlights of BRA Area #4 North emphasize its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making it a standout choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the Possum Kingdom Lake experience:

• Prime Lakeside Location: Situated along the bank of a cove on Possum Kingdom Lake, offering direct water access and scenic views.
• Boating and Water Sports: With a boat ramp and courtesy dock, it’s an excellent spot for launching boats for fishing, water skiing, personal watercraft, and general lake cruising on Possum Kingdom Lake's 17,700 acres.
• Fishing Opportunities: Possum Kingdom Lake is renowned for its excellent fishing, particularly for striper and hybrid bass in deeper areas, and crappie and panfish around docks.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The inclusion of a playground and designated swim area makes it a welcoming spot for families with children.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: The park offers easy access to the extensive 16-mile Possum Kingdom Hike and Bike Trail, which winds through wooded areas, limestone canyons, and offers stunning lake views from various lookouts, including Johnson Peak.
• Day Use and Camping Options: Suitable for both day-trippers enjoying a picnic or a swim, and overnight campers looking for a natural, rustic camping experience.
• First-Come, First-Served Camping: While this means no reservations, it also offers flexibility for spontaneous trips.
• Beautiful Scenery: The natural environment, with its large lake and surrounding landscapes, provides a picturesque setting for outdoor enjoyment.

BRA Area #4 North operates with a straightforward fee structure typical of Brazos River Authority public use areas, and specific promotions are not usually offered. However, its pricing is already designed to be highly accessible and affordable:

• Camping Sites: $10 per night per campsite during the summer months.
• Day Use Fee: $3 per person (13 years and older) on weekends and holidays from mid-May to mid-September. Children under 13 are free.
• Off-Peak Season: There are no day use or campsite fees on weekdays or during winter months, offering a free camping option for much of the year.

These fees represent excellent value for the access and amenities provided at such a popular lake. It’s important for prospective visitors to note that camping spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning early arrival, especially during peak season weekends, is recommended. For the most up-to-date information on fees and any potential policy changes, visitors should consult the Brazos River Authority website or signage at the park entrance.

For more information about BRA Area #4 North or the surrounding Possum Kingdom Lake amenities, please note that there is no direct phone number specifically for this public use area. As a Brazos River Authority (BRA) managed public park, general inquiries would typically be directed to the BRA's main offices or through their official website, which provides comprehensive details on all their public use areas.

Address: 2053 FM2951, Graford, TX 76449, USA

For specific information on park rules, fees, and amenities, it is advisable to check the Brazos River Authority's official website for Possum Kingdom Lake public use areas, or look for contact details for the main BRA office. Information regarding local services or specific activities can often be found through the Possum Kingdom Lake Chamber of Commerce.

For Texans seeking an authentic and accessible outdoor experience, BRA Area #4 North at Possum Kingdom Lake is an exceptionally suitable destination. Its primary appeal lies in its direct access to one of Texas's most stunning lakes, offering a plethora of recreational opportunities from boating and fishing to swimming and hiking on the extensive PK Trail. The park's design, with its first-come, first-served campsites (many with shelters) and essential amenities like clean restrooms and showers, provides a comfortable yet rustic camping experience that many outdoor enthusiasts cherish.

The inclusion of a playground and a designated swimming area makes it particularly appealing for families, ensuring children have dedicated spaces to play and enjoy the lake safely. Furthermore, the highly affordable fees, especially the free use during weekdays and winter months, make it an incredibly budget-friendly option for locals looking to enjoy the beauty of Possum Kingdom Lake without breaking the bank. Whether it's for a spontaneous weekend tent camping trip, a family outing by the water, or an extended stay to fully immerse in the lake life, BRA Area #4 North offers a genuinely Texan outdoor adventure.