Bonham State Park
00 review1363 PARK ROAD 24, BONHAM, Texas, 75418, United States
Bonham State Park
$4.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Day use fee is $4 per person for individuals aged 13 and older. A daily permit is $8. Camping fees vary depending on site type.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of North Texas, Bonham State Park beckons adventurers to discover its tranquil waters and shaded campsites. This intimate getaway wraps around a pristine lake, where RV enthusiasts can settle into full-service sites, tent campers can pitch beneath towering oaks, and groups can gather in spacious barracks. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, paddling across mirror-still waters, or roasting marshmallows under star-filled skies, this cherished park delivers the perfect blend of outdoor recreation and peaceful retreat.
Bonham State Park provides a mix of RV, tent, and group camping options, as well as cabin accommodations. The park features a small number of campsites, making it quieter and more intimate compared to larger Texas state parks.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the park's stunning Civilian Conservation Corps architecture, where stone structures built by young men during the Great Depression stand as monuments to American resilience. These handcrafted pavilions, bridges, and buildings showcase the artistry and craftsmanship of the 1930s, adding layers of history to your outdoor experience. Each weathered stone tells a story of determination and vision, creating an atmosphere where past and present merge seamlessly.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the park's distinct personality through changing seasons. Winter brings crisp, clear days perfect for hiking without breaking a sweat, while summer transforms the landscape into a lush, green oasis where the lake becomes your cooling companion. Spring wildflowers paint the meadows in vibrant colors as temperatures hover in that sweet spot for all-day adventures. Fall arrives with golden light filtering through changing leaves, creating ideal conditions for camping comfort—cool nights for cozy campfires and warm days for exploring every trail.
ElevationThe park's gentle, rolling terrain sits comfortably in the North Texas landscape, offering easy accessibility for visitors of all ages and abilities. This modest elevation creates perfect conditions for leisurely walks and relaxed exploration without strenuous climbs.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a captivating tapestry where dense woodlands give way to sun-dappled meadows, all embracing a jewel-like lake at the park's heart. Morning mists rise from the water as great blue herons stand sentinel along the shoreline. Majestic oak trees provide cathedral-like canopies over camping areas, while open grasslands burst with seasonal wildflowers. Keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed deer grazing at forest edges during golden hour, and listen for the cheerful chorus of songbirds that call this sanctuary home. Every trail reveals new perspectives of this diverse ecosystem where water, forest, and prairie converge.
Geological RegionBonham State Park showcases the natural beauty of Texas Region 6, where the landscape tells an ancient story of forests and prairies meeting at water's edge. This geological setting creates a rich mosaic of habitats—from dense woodlands that provide cooling shade to expansive open areas perfect for recreation. The centerpiece lake, cradled by gently sloping shores, reflects the region's capacity to support diverse ecosystems in one compact, accessible destination.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome areas of the park may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues due to steep terrain. As one user noted, 'Only downside: very steep, and would be hard for some in wheelchairs, strollers, using canes, etc.'
Sites SizeVaried site sizes, including large sites like Site 13 ('HUGE site'), and smaller, less accessible sites such as Site 12.
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies. Sites 9-12 offer more privacy by backing up to the woods, whereas some tent sites are described as being very close together.
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 1 is good for full hookups. Site 13 is recommended for large groups and grassy areas.
Best CampsitesSites 7 and 8 are highly rated for waterfront views; site 13 is noted for its size and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:15 AM
Check-out
4:45 PM
Stay Limit
Stay limit information not provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 2 tents are allowed per tent site based on reviews.
Groups
Group camping includes barracks-style accommodations, as noted in one review: 'We stayed at the Group housing 'the barracks' for a family reunion. The air conditioners in the cabins were great after we cleaned the filters.'
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a compact layout with RV sites near the lake and tent sites on shaded loops.
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round, with higher activity during summer months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are limited; campground fills quickly during peak seasons.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation 2 weeks in advance results in forfeited fees. Modification or cancellation is encouraged if plans change.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Bonham State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, appealing to hikers, anglers, swimmers, and families. The park features well-maintained trails, fishing opportunities, a playground, and watercraft rentals. Additionally, there are facilities for volleyball, basketball, and other group activities.
Hiking
Hiking trails in the park vary in difficulty from easy to moderate, with approximately 8 miles of trails available. Some trails are noted for their solitude, while others are criticized for inadequate signage, making navigation challenging at times. Specific trails mentioned include the Gnarly Root and Bois d'Arc trails.Fishing
Fishing is available, with a fishing pier and free fishing pole loaners offered. Reviews suggest a 'nice-sized fishing dock,' though one user noted they did not catch any fish during their visit.Swimming
Swimming is available in the lake, with a designated swimming area. However, the swimming area is described as 'grassy.' One user commented, 'The lake was quite refreshing!'Biking
Mountain biking trails are available, and the park's main road is also suitable for cycling. However, some users noted that trail signage could be improved to avoid confusion.Boating
Kayaks, canoes, and pedal boats are available for rental. The lake is described as small but scenic, providing a safe environment for boating activities.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers educational activities, such as cast iron camp cooking classes run by Master Naturalists, and occasional scavenger hunts.Water Sports
Non-motorized watercraft activities like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed on designated pits at each site.
- Quiet hours are enforced after 10:00 pm.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention poison oak along trails and wasp nests during summer months.
Active alertsPaddle boats and canoes were reportedly out of commission as of August 2023.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 14.5 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are in Bonham, approximately 10 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season corresponds to summer months when amenities are fully operational.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly detailed in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresThe park surrounds a small lake suitable for fishing, kayaking, and paddle boating.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include cramped tent sites and limited privacy, especially when busy.
HostPark rangers are described as helpful and provide trail maps and conditions.
Campground Map
1363 PARK ROAD 24, BONHAM, Texas, 75418, United States
Driving directionsFrom Dallas: Take Hwy 75 North to Hwy 121. Continue North on Hwy 121 to Hwy 56 East at Bonham. Continue East on Hwy 56 to Hwy 78 South. Take Hwy 78 South and turn left onto FM 271 and go two miles. Park entrance is on the left at Park Road 24.
The campground is accessible via a series of highways and farm roads. Based on reviews, the entry road seems straightforward but slightly challenging to navigate for larger RVs.Nearby places
Bonham is the closest city, located approximately 10 minutes away by car. Other nearby towns such as McKinney are roughly 40 minutes away.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Bonham, which houses a Walmart and other convenience stores. Firewood is available off-site for $5 per bundle through an honor-box system.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Bonham State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The park is consistently praised for its cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, and range of activities. However, some criticisms include closely spaced campsites, confusing trail signage, and occasional staff issues.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Frequent mentions of clean facilities, scenic lake views, and family-friendly activities. Many users appreciate the park's quiet and intimate setting.
Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes closely spaced campsites, poorly marked trails, and rare instances of unhelpful staff.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a trail map or compass due to unclear trail signage. Firewood is available off-site for $5 per bundle. The park is ideal for families and a quick getaway from Dallas.
Seasonal Insights
The park is popular year-round, with peak activity during the summer months. However, trails can become muddy after heavy rains, and swimming areas may have algae during warmer months.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms were the cleanest I have ever seen.' 2. 'Camping sites 1&2 are full hookups, and closest to the park HQ.' 3. 'We had site #1 with full Hook up and we had no issues.'
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 13 is a favorite due to its large size and hilltop location. Sites 7&8 are praised for waterfront views. Site 12 is less suitable for large campers due to limited parking maneuverability.
Accessibility Features
Some areas are steep and may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues. One user commented, 'Only downside: very steep, and would be hard for some in wheelchairs.'
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but there is limited information on pet-specific facilities or rules.
Last updated August 10, 2025