Deer Ridge Campground

For us Texans, getting outdoors and enjoying the vast beauty of our state is practically a way of life. When the call of nature beckons, finding a reliable and enjoyable campground is key to a memorable adventure. Look no further than Deer Ridge Campground, a fantastic spot nestled within the Isle du Bois Unit of Ray Roberts Lake State Park in Pilot Point, TX. It’s a popular choice for good reason, offering a blend of natural beauty, ample activities, and convenient access that makes it a true gem for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Deer Ridge Campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent or park your RV; it's a gateway to outdoor fun and relaxation. From stunning sunsets over the lake to miles of well-maintained trails for hiking and biking, this campground provides a rich experience for all ages. We’ve heard from fellow campers who love it here, praising the spacious sites, the friendly deer that aren't skittish, and the beautiful Lake Ray Roberts. One camper fondly remembered it as a "good place for sunset" with "lots of place for different activities" and "well maintained." Another highlighted the "easy pull through with plenty of room" for their RV, despite a chilly winter shower experience which they noted was the only drawback to an otherwise very nice stay. It’s truly a testament to the overall quality of the park that even a minor comfort issue couldn't overshadow the positive experience.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Deer Ridge Campground from a local Texan's perspective. We’ll explore its prime location, the array of services and amenities it offers, its standout features, and how you can plan your visit. Get ready to discover why Deer Ridge Campground is an excellent choice for your next outdoor escapade in North Texas.

Deer Ridge Campground is strategically located at Deer Ridge Cir, Pilot Point, TX 76258, USA. This places it firmly within the Isle du Bois Unit of Ray Roberts Lake State Park, offering visitors the dual benefit of a serene natural setting with excellent accessibility. For those of us in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, the park is a convenient drive, typically just about an hour north of Dallas. This makes it an ideal spot for weekend trips or longer vacations without requiring extensive travel time.

The campground’s location within a state park means it is managed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, ensuring a high standard of maintenance and a commitment to preserving the natural environment. The roads within the park are noted to be safe for road bike rides, indicating good internal infrastructure. Beyond the immediate campground, the proximity to Lake Ray Roberts is a significant draw. This large reservoir is a hub for water-based activities and provides picturesque views, including those "good place for sunset" opportunities that campers rave about.

While you’ll feel comfortably immersed in nature, essential services and local towns like Pilot Point are within a reasonable driving distance for any supplies you might need. The balance between natural seclusion and practical accessibility is a key advantage of Deer Ridge Campground, making it a stress-free destination for Texas campers.

Deer Ridge Campground, as part of a Texas State Park, offers a solid range of services and amenities designed to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable.

• Campsites with Electricity: Many campsites are equipped with electrical hookups, typically offering 20, 30, and 50-amp service, suitable for both RVs and tent campers who appreciate modern conveniences. Specific sites even offer 14-50 outlets.
• Water Hookups: Water hookups are available at many sites, providing easy access to fresh water directly at your campsite.
• Paved Pull-Through and Back-In Sites: The campground features a mix of paved pull-through and back-in sites, making it easy to park your RV or set up your tent, even for larger rigs.
• Clean Restrooms and Showers: Deer Ridge offers restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers, which are generally well-maintained and clean, though one reviewer noted the bathrooms could be too cold in winter.
• Dump Station: For RVers, a convenient dump station is available within the park for managing wastewater.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grills: Each site typically comes with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for cooking camp meals and enjoying campfires.
• Tent Pads: For tent campers, sites are likely to have tent pads, providing a flat and cleared area for setting up your tent.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed at the campground but must be kept on a leash and supervised, with owners responsible for cleaning up after them.
• Park Store: While not explicitly detailed for Deer Ridge specifically, state parks often feature a small store where campers can purchase basic supplies, firewood, and souvenirs.

Deer Ridge Campground offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a standout choice for an outdoor getaway in Texas.

• Lake Ray Roberts Access: Being part of Ray Roberts Lake State Park, visitors have direct access to the beautiful lake for fishing, boating, swimming, and other water recreation. A boat ramp is available for easy water access.
• Extensive Trail System: The campground is a hub for outdoor activities, offering "lots of trails" for both hiking and road biking. These trails provide excellent opportunities to explore the natural surroundings, observe wildlife, and get some exercise.
• Spacious Campsites: Campers consistently praise the "plenty of space for parking and enjoyment" at each site. This allows for comfort and privacy, making your stay more relaxing. Sites are often described as having "plenty of room" and being "well spaced out."
• Wildlife Viewing: The campground is home to various wildlife, with reviewers specifically mentioning that "deer not skiddish," providing unique opportunities to observe animals in their natural habitat.
• Beautiful Sunsets: As noted by a reviewer, Deer Ridge offers "good place for sunset," making evenings a picturesque experience over Lake Ray Roberts.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With ample space for activities and access to nature, the campground is considered "children friendly," providing a safe and engaging environment for families.
• Paved Roads: The presence of paved roads within the park enhances accessibility and makes it easier and safer for road biking and general movement.
• Accessible Sites: Ray Roberts Lake State Park notes that some sites in the Deer Ridge loop are wheelchair accessible (e.g., site #51), providing features like larger hard surfaces and accessible picnic tables.
• Shade Trees: Many sites feature natural shade from trees, which is a welcome amenity, especially during the warmer Texas months.

As a Texas State Park campground, Deer Ridge Campground generally follows the fee structure set by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). While specific promotional "offers" like discounts for multiple nights are not typically advertised in the same way a private campground might, there are standard rates and potential savings that Texans should be aware of.

• Daily Entrance Fee: In addition to the camping fee, there is a daily entrance fee for Ray Roberts Lake State Park, typically $7 per person per day for ages 13 and older. This fee is standard for most Texas State Parks.
• Texas State Park Pass: For frequent visitors, purchasing a Texas State Park Pass is an excellent investment. For an annual fee (currently around $70), the pass provides unlimited free entry to all Texas State Parks for the pass holder and their guests for one year, effectively waiving the daily entrance fee. This is a significant saving for locals who plan multiple camping trips throughout the year.
• Campsite Rates: Campsite fees vary based on amenities. For sites with electricity and water, rates are typically around $25-$26 per night. Primitive campsites, if available in other loops of the park, would be less expensive.
• Reservations: While not a promotion, it's highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons, due to the popularity of the park. This ensures you secure your desired site.
• Special Programs: Texas State Parks occasionally host free or low-cost interpretive programs and activities, which add value to your stay. Check the park's official website for current event listings.

To plan your visit or make a reservation at Deer Ridge Campground, you can use the following information. As it is part of a Texas State Park, the primary way to book and gather detailed information is through the official Texas Parks and Wildlife Department channels.

Address: Deer Ridge Cir, Pilot Point, TX 76258, USA

Phone: While a direct line to the Deer Ridge Campground loop might not be available, the main phone number for Ray Roberts Lake State Park (Isle du Bois Unit) is (940) 686-2148. This number can be used for general inquiries, late arrival instructions, and information about the park.

For reservations, the best method is to use the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s online reservation system, typically found on their website. Search for "Ray Roberts Lake State Park Isle du Bois" to find Deer Ridge Campground and check availability.

Deer Ridge Campground at Ray Roberts Lake State Park, Isle du Bois Unit, stands out as an exceptional outdoor destination perfectly suited for locals across Texas. Its prime location in Pilot Point, just a comfortable drive from the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, means less time on the road and more time enjoying the natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

For Texans, this campground offers a fantastic blend of convenience and adventure. You get the benefits of a well-maintained state park with clean facilities, reliable hookups for RVs, and easy access to the expansive Lake Ray Roberts for all your fishing, boating, and swimming desires. The extensive network of hiking and biking trails means there’s always something new to explore, catering to active individuals and families alike. The spacious campsites ensure comfort and a sense of privacy, allowing you to truly relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Whether you’re a family looking for a kid-friendly camping spot with plenty of activities, an RVer seeking a convenient and well-equipped base, or simply someone craving a serene escape to watch a beautiful Texas sunset, Deer Ridge Campground delivers. Its affordability, especially with the Texas State Park Pass, makes it an accessible option for frequent getaways. It truly embodies the spirit of Texas outdoor recreation, providing a memorable and enjoyable experience right in our backyard.