Tent Campground

Howdy, Texas adventurers! Are you yearning for a refreshing escape into nature, where the sounds of the city fade and the beauty of the outdoors takes center stage? Look no further than Bonham State Park in Bonham, TX. This beloved gem, crafted by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, offers a quintessential Texas camping experience, particularly for those who love the simplicity and immersion of tent camping. It's a place where history, natural beauty, and a peaceful atmosphere converge, providing a fantastic retreat for families, friends, and solo explorers alike.

Bonham State Park is a 261-acre natural haven nestled in Fannin County, a convenient drive from the bustling Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. At its heart lies a serene 65-acre lake, which serves as the focal point for many of the park's recreational activities. While the park does offer options for RVs, it truly shines as a prime destination for tent camping, with dedicated sites that cater to various preferences. From primitive, non-electric spots for a truly rustic experience to campsites equipped with water and electricity, Bonham State Park ensures that tent campers can find their ideal outdoor haven.

This state park is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a testament to the enduring legacy of the CCC, with many of its original structures and features still intact, adding a layer of historical charm to your visit. The park is known for its quiet, relaxed atmosphere, providing a much-needed break from the demands of everyday life. Whether you're looking to cast a line into the lake, explore scenic trails, or simply unwind under a canopy of stars, Bonham State Park offers a welcoming environment for all.

Bonham State Park is conveniently located at 1363 State Park 24, Bonham, TX 75418, USA. This address places it just south of the city of Bonham in Fannin County, making it easily accessible from major metropolitan areas in North Texas. It's approximately an hour's drive from the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, making it a perfect weekend getaway without an extensive journey.

Getting to the park is straightforward. From Dallas, you can typically take Highway 75 North, then connect to Highway 121 North, and eventually Highway 56 East at Bonham. A short drive on Highway 78 South and then a left onto FM 271 will lead you directly to Park Road 24 and the park entrance. The roads leading to and within the park are well-maintained, ensuring a smooth arrival for all vehicles. The park's layout is designed for easy navigation, allowing campers to quickly find their reserved sites. Its location provides a balance of seclusion for a true outdoor feel, while still being close enough to the city of Bonham for any last-minute supplies, dining options, or local attractions like the Sam Rayburn House State Historic Site.

Bonham State Park provides a range of services and amenities to enhance your tent camping experience:

• Tent-Specific Campsites: The park offers 7 dedicated "Campsites with Electricity (Tent Only)," providing a tent pad, electric hookup (20-amp), water spigot, fire ring, upright grill, and lantern holder. These are ideal for those who want some modern conveniences with their tent setup.
• Campsites with Electricity: There are also 12 "Campsites with Electricity" that allow both tents and RVs, offering 20/30/50-amp electric hookups, water, fire rings, grills, and lantern holders.
• Full Hookup Campsites: While primarily a tent and basic electric campground, Bonham State Park also features 2 "Full Hookup Campsites" (with 30/50-amp electric, water, and sewer), which can accommodate tents if desired, offering the highest level of convenience.
• Restrooms and Showers: Clean restroom facilities with hot showers are available, located conveniently across from the park headquarters and accessible from the camping loops.
• Potable Water: Water spigots are available at all electric sites and often within easy reach at other camping areas.
• Sanitary Dump Station: For RVers or those using portable waste tanks, a dump station is available for convenient waste disposal.
• Picnic Sites: Numerous day-use picnic sites are scattered throughout the park, complete with grills and tables, perfect for a picnic by the lake.
• Park Store: A small park store is available for purchasing gifts, souvenirs, and often essential camping supplies like firewood.
• Boat Ramp and Fishing Pier: Direct access to the 65-acre lake is provided via a boat ramp (with a 5-mph speed limit on the lake) and a fishing pier.
• Canoe and Kayak Rentals: If you don't bring your own watercraft, the park offers rentals for paddle boats, kayaks, and canoes during operational hours.

Bonham State Park shines with several key features that make it a standout camping destination:

• Historic CCC Legacy: Explore the park and appreciate the craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps, evident in the stone structures and landscaping.
• 65-Acre Lake: The beautiful lake is central to the park's appeal, offering excellent opportunities for fishing (stocked with catfish, bass, and crappie), no-wake boating, and paddling.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: Enjoy over 8.75 miles of trails, suitable for both hikers and mountain bikers. Trails like the 1.3-mile Lake Loop Trail and the more challenging 2.7-mile Bois d'Arc Trail offer scenic views and chances for wildlife spotting. Many trails are shaded, providing comfort during warmer weather.
• Designated Swimming Area: A designated swimming area is available for cooling off, though it is unsupervised.
• Playground: A playground is on-site for children, adding to the family-friendly appeal.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to various wildlife, offering opportunities for nature observation and birding.
• Quiet Hours: The park observes quiet hours (typically 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.), ensuring a peaceful night's sleep for all campers.
• Ranger Programs: The park often hosts ranger-led programs on nature and history, providing educational and engaging activities for visitors.

As a Texas State Park, Bonham State Park operates under the fee structure set by the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD). While specific "promotions" in a commercial sense are not typically offered, visitors can often benefit from state park passes and discount programs. These include:

• Texas State Park Pass: This annual pass offers unlimited free entry to all Texas State Parks for one year for the pass holder and guests in the same vehicle, and often provides discounts on camping fees.
• Senior and Disabled Discounts: Texas residents who are 65 or older, or those with certain disabilities, may qualify for discounted camping rates.
• Kids 12 and Under Free: Children aged 12 and under generally have free entry to Texas State Parks.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on entrance fees, camping fees, and any available discounts, it is always best to check the official Texas Parks & Wildlife Department website (tpwd.texas.gov) or contact Bonham State Park directly. Reservations for campsites are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons and holidays, and can be made online or by calling the park office.

Ready to plan your refreshing escape to Bonham State Park? Here’s how to reach them:

Address: 1363 State Park 24, Bonham, TX 75418, USA

Phone: (903) 583-5022

Email: BonhamSP@tpwd.texas.gov

It's always a good idea to call the park office ahead of your visit for current conditions, gate information, and to confirm specific details about your desired campsite type. Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made through the Texas Parks & Wildlife website.

For Texans, especially those in the bustling North Texas region, Bonham State Park is an incredibly suitable and accessible camping destination. It offers a much-needed respite from urban life, providing a truly natural environment without requiring an extensive drive. The park's diverse camping options, particularly its dedicated tent sites with and without electricity, cater to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, from those seeking a more rugged experience to those who appreciate a few modern comforts.

The 65-acre lake is a fantastic asset for fishing, paddling, and cooling off, while the extensive network of shaded hiking and biking trails invites exploration and wildlife observation. As a historic CCC park, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making every visit a step back in time. For families, the playground and opportunities for Junior Ranger activities add to its appeal. Bonham State Park truly embodies the spirit of Texas outdoor recreation – a serene, well-maintained, and historically rich campground that provides an ideal backdrop for creating lasting memories in the heart of the Lone Star State. It's a testament to Texas's commitment to preserving natural spaces for everyone to enjoy.