Red Arroyo Campground Site 63

For Texans eager to trade cityscapes for starry nights and the open road for winding trails, finding the perfect campground is key to a memorable outdoor adventure. San Angelo State Park, a sprawling natural haven in West Texas, offers just that, and within its vast landscape lies the highly-regarded Red Arroyo Campground. This popular camping area provides a comfortable and scenic base for exploring the park's diverse ecosystems and engaging in a wide array of recreational activities.

Red Arroyo Campground, specifically, is a favored spot for many visitors to San Angelo State Park. It's known for its well-appointed sites and convenient access to some of the park's most cherished features. Whether you're pulling a large RV, setting up a tent, or just looking for a peaceful spot to enjoy the Texas wilderness, this campground aims to provide a welcoming and well-equipped environment.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into what makes Red Arroyo Campground an excellent choice for your next outdoor escape. We'll cover its location and accessibility, the essential services it provides, and highlight the unique features that make it a standout destination. Drawing on real visitor experiences, we'll paint a factual and engaging picture of what awaits you at this West Texas gem.

Red Arroyo Campground is nestled within the expansive San Angelo State Park, located at FFCV+HC, San Angelo, TX 76901, USA. More precisely, San Angelo State Park's main entrance is typically accessed via 362 S. FM 2288, San Angelo, TX 76901. The "FFCV+HC" address is a Plus Code, which is a global digital address, signifying a specific location within the park, likely pointing directly to the Red Arroyo camping area on the South Shore of O.C. Fisher Reservoir, closest to town.

San Angelo, a key city in West Texas, serves as an easily accessible hub via major US Highways 67, 87, and 277, as well as State Highway 158. This ensures that visitors from across Texas can reach the park with relative ease. The campground's position on the South Shore of the lake means it often offers picturesque views of the water and surrounding landscapes.

Accessing Red Arroyo Campground typically involves entering San Angelo State Park through its South Shore Entrance. The park gates are open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. For those arriving outside of these hours, it's crucial to contact the park headquarters before 5:00 PM on the day of arrival to receive late arrival instructions, ensuring a smooth entry even after hours. Despite being within a state park, reviewers note the area is "quiet even though you are relatively close to the housing and traffic intersections!" This suggests a successful balance between convenient access and a peaceful camping experience. The campground's location also offers proximity to San Angelo's city amenities, meaning supplies, restaurants, and other services are just a short drive away, adding to the convenience for campers.

Red Arroyo Campground, as a key component of San Angelo State Park, offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to make camping comfortable and convenient for a wide range of visitors, from tent campers to large RVs.

• Full Hookup Campsites: The campground features numerous sites equipped with "30,50 amp electric, and fresh water hookups." Many sites also provide sewer hookups, offering full convenience for RVers. These sites are often spacious, "large, spread out," and "pull through," accommodating various vehicle sizes.
• Covered Picnic Tables: Every campsite comes with a "covered concrete table," providing a shaded area for dining and relaxation, a much-appreciated amenity in the Texas sun.
• BBQ Stands and Fire Pits: Each site includes both a "BBQ stand" and a "fire pit" (often with cooking grates), allowing campers to enjoy outdoor cooking and traditional campfires (checking for burn bans is always recommended).
• Restrooms with Hot Showers: Reviewers consistently highlight that the "Bathrooms have hot water showers and flush toilets." While one review noted older bathrooms in Red Arroyo, they are generally kept clean, and showers offer "good, modern showerheads," providing essential comfort.
• Potable Drinking Water: Fresh water hookups are available at sites, and drinking water is accessible throughout the campground.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A dump station is available within San Angelo State Park for convenient disposal of grey and black water from RVs.
• ADA Accessible Features: The park is noted to have ADA access features, ensuring inclusivity for visitors with disabilities.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: Pets are allowed at campsites but must be kept on a leash. This makes it an ideal spot for Texans who enjoy camping with their furry companions.
• Online Reservation System: Campsites can be reserved in advance through the Texas State Parks reservation system, which is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or holidays.
• Park Ranger Services: As part of a state park, visitors benefit from the presence of park rangers who provide information, assistance, and ensure park rules are followed.
• Cell Service: Reviewers have noted "good cell service for Verizon and T-Mobile" (2-3 bars consistently) and "great cell and TV reception," which is a valuable service for staying connected.

These services collectively enhance the camping experience at Red Arroyo, ensuring that visitors have access to necessary comforts while enjoying the natural environment.

Red Arroyo Campground, as part of the broader San Angelo State Park, offers a compelling array of features and highlights that make it a premier camping destination in West Texas:

• Spacious and Well-Equipped Campsites: A consistent highlight from visitors is that "The sites are large and well-spaced apart," providing a sense of privacy and room to maneuver, especially for RVs. Most sites include covered concrete picnic tables, BBQ stands, and fire pits, offering comprehensive amenities for comfortable outdoor living. Many also boast "great unobstructed views" of the lake or surrounding natural landscape.
• Extensive Multi-Use Trail System: San Angelo State Park features over 50 miles of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. This vast network allows for diverse outdoor activities and exploration, from challenging rides to leisurely walks, ensuring visitors can truly immerse themselves in nature.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The park is renowned for its abundant wildlife. Campers frequently report seeing "deer, turkeys, skunks, hogs, and a bobcat" and "lots of birds." A unique feature is the opportunity to observe a portion of the official Texas Bison and Texas Longhorn herds, with ranger-led feeding programs bringing them close to fences for viewing. Wildlife blinds also offer excellent bird-watching spots.
• Proximity to Lake O.C. Fisher: The campground's location on the South Shore of the reservoir provides easy access to water-based activities like fishing, swimming, and potentially boating (depending on water levels). Many sites offer "a nice view of the lake and dam," enhancing the scenic beauty.
• Historical and Geological Wonders: The park boasts fascinating features like Native American petroglyphs and fossilized trackways of ancient creatures along the two-mile Dinosaur Trail, offering unique educational and historical experiences.
• Stargazing Potential: With minimal light pollution away from the city's core, the campground offers excellent opportunities for stargazing, allowing campers to marvel at the brilliant West Texas night sky.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite its popularity and proximity to the city, reviews consistently emphasize a "Great peaceful camp" and being "Quiet even though you are relatively close to the housing and traffic intersections!" This tranquility is highly valued by those seeking relaxation.
• Beautiful Sunrises and Sunsets: Given the expansive West Texas horizon, campers are treated to "really cool sunrises and sunsets right from your campsite," adding a picturesque element to their stay.

These combined features offer a rich and varied outdoor experience, making Red Arroyo Campground a highly appealing destination for nature lovers and adventurers in Texas.

As a Texas State Park campground, Red Arroyo Campground operates under the standardized pricing and special offers set by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). While you won't find commercial-style "promotions" in the traditional sense, there are several ways for Texans to maximize value and enhance their visit:

• Texas State Park Pass: This is the most beneficial "promotion" for frequent park-goers. A Texas State Park Pass provides one year of unlimited free entry to more than 80 state parks for the pass holder and guests in the same vehicle. This can lead to substantial savings on the daily entrance fee (typically $4 per person aged 13 and older) for those who plan multiple visits throughout the year.
• Camping Discounts for Seniors and Disabled Veterans: Texas State Parks often offer discounts on camping fees for Texas residents who are seniors (usually 65+) or have certain disabilities. It's advisable to check the TPWD website or call the park for specific eligibility and discount percentages.
• Group Rates: If you're planning a large gathering, Red Arroyo offers a unique benefit: "Rent 10 campsites in this area and use the nearby Chaparral Group Pavilion for free (normally $40 per day)." This provides significant savings for groups.
• Free Kids' Entry: Children 12 years and under typically enter Texas State Parks free of charge for day use, making it an affordable family outing.
• Educational Programs Included: Many ranger-led programs, such as bison/longhorn tours, guided hikes, and stargazing sessions, are often included with your park entrance fee, providing enriching experiences at no additional cost.

To get the most accurate and current information on fees, passes, and any specific group offerings, always refer to the official Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website for San Angelo State Park or contact the park directly.

For reservations, detailed information about Red Arroyo Campground, current conditions within San Angelo State Park, or any other inquiries regarding your visit, please use the following official contact details:

Park Address (for San Angelo State Park): 362 S. FM 2288, San Angelo, TX 76901, USA

Park Phone Number: (325) 949-4757 (This number can be used for general park information. For late arrivals, call before 5:00 PM for instructions.)

Mobile Phone: +1 325-949-4757 (This is the same number, often listed as a mobile contact for convenience.)

Camping Reservations: To book a campsite, it is highly recommended to use the official Texas State Parks reservation system online at texasstateparks.org/reservations or call their central reservation line at (512) 389-8900 (available 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday). While the specific address for Site 63 is a Plus Code (FFCV+HC, San Angelo, TX 76901), using the main park address and then following internal park signage for Red Arroyo Campground is the common approach.

It is always advisable to check the park's official website for any alerts, such as trail closures, burn bans, or lake level changes, before your visit to ensure the best possible experience.

For Texans, Red Arroyo Campground at San Angelo State Park offers an outstanding and highly suitable destination for reconnecting with nature and enjoying the diverse outdoor recreation opportunities that the state provides. Its strategic location near San Angelo means it's an accessible escape for many, allowing for both spontaneous weekend trips and extended vacations without requiring excessive travel time. The ease of access, combined with a peaceful setting, creates an ideal balance for those seeking a quick reprieve from city life or a deeper dive into the West Texas landscape.

The campground's suitability for locals is amplified by its well-appointed sites. With "large, well-spaced" areas featuring full RV hookups, covered picnic tables, and personal fire pits, campers can enjoy a comfortable experience whether they're seasoned RVers or first-time tent campers. The presence of restrooms with hot showers, even if some facilities are older, provides essential comforts that elevate the camping experience beyond mere roughing it.

The true allure for Texans lies in the park's expansive and varied features. The "miles of nice trails" are a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and especially those with horses (as the park also has equestrian facilities). The opportunity to witness Texas's iconic wildlife, including bison and longhorns, along with diverse bird species, offers a rich educational and observational experience unique to the region. Moreover, the historical significance of Native American petroglyphs and ancient fossil tracks provides a fascinating dimension that deepens the connection to the land for those who call Texas home.

In essence, Red Arroyo Campground provides a comprehensive and accessible gateway to the natural wonders and recreational pursuits of San Angelo State Park. It's a place where Texans can enjoy affordability, comfort, and a true sense of adventure, making it an excellent choice for creating lasting outdoor memories in the heart of the Lone Star State.