Purtis Creek State Park
00 review14225 FM 316 N, EUSTACE, Texas, 75124, United States
Purtis Creek State Park
$2.00 - $5.00 / 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 $5 per day per person aged 13 and older. Overnight lake activity use fee is $2 per person.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of East Texas, Purtis Creek State Park has earned its reputation as a hidden gem where nature's tranquility meets outdoor adventure. This intimate, well-maintained sanctuary draws families and solo adventurers alike with its pristine fishing waters, winding hiking trails, and peaceful bike paths. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, paddling across mirror-smooth waters, or joining one of the park's engaging nature education classes, you'll discover why visitors consistently praise this destination as the perfect camping escape. Crystal-clear facilities and thoughtfully designed amenities ensure your focus stays on what matters most: connecting with nature and creating lasting memories.
Purtis Creek State Park offers a range of camping experiences including primitive, tent, and RV camping. Group sites are also available.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full tapestry of Texas seasons at Purtis Creek, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and gentle breezes, while autumn transforms the canopy into a kaleidoscope of warm colors—both seasons offering ideal camping weather. Summer brings that authentic Texas warmth, perfect for early morning adventures and lazy afternoons by the water. Winter visitors are treated to crisp, quiet mornings and the occasional dramatic ice storm that transforms the park into a crystalline wonderland, reminding us of nature's powerful artistry.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a world where towering trees create natural cathedrals and morning mist dances across a serene no-wake lake. Purtis Creek's dense woodlands shelter an abundance of wildlife—watch for white-tailed deer grazing at dusk or clever raccoons investigating the twilight hours. The park's centerpiece, a peaceful lake perfect for paddling adventures, reflects the sky like glass on calm mornings. Launch your kayak or canoe to explore hidden coves, cast for bass and catfish, or simply drift and listen to the symphony of songbirds. This carefully preserved ecosystem offers both adventure seekers and solitude lovers their own slice of Texas paradise.
Geological RegionSituated in the distinctive landscape of Region 6, Purtis Creek State Park showcases the natural beauty of East Texas's wooded terrain. Here, ancient forests meet tranquil waters, creating a diverse ecosystem where the region's characteristic pine and hardwood forests thrive alongside a pristine no-wake lake that serves as both a recreational playground and a vital habitat for local wildlife.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park includes wheelchair-accessible fishing piers and some accessible trails.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size; waterfront sites are 32-45 feet long, and other sites are reportedly spacious and shaded.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are well spaced with foliage providing privacy. Primitive sites offer seclusion and are often located by the water.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPrimitive sites require a hike of over one mile. Waterfront sites are scenic but may be shorter in length, potentially challenging for larger RVs.
Best CampsitesWaterfront sites like Site 22 are highly recommended for views and proximity to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6am
Check-out
10pm
Stay Limit
Reservations usually booked weeks in advance.
Groups
Group sites are available, but specific details about capacity are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spacious with foliage separating them for privacy. Loops include areas suitable for tents and RVs.
Cancellation PolicyModify or cancel reservations promptly to allow others to use the park.
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.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Purtis Creek State Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities including fishing, hiking, swimming, boating, and wildlife viewing. The park is especially known for its fishing and kayaking opportunities.
Hiking
Hiking trails are short and easy, with several options totaling up to 5 miles. Trails are well-maintained and shaded. One reviewer mentioned enjoying a 'two-mile walk and saw a doe.'Fishing
Fishing is highly praised. The lake supports catch-and-release for largemouth bass over 16 inches. 'Best fishing lake I've ever been to,' said one reviewer.Swimming
Swimming is allowed in a designated area during daylight hours. Some reviews noted that the swimming area is small and gets crowded.Biking
Several surfaced trails are available for biking, and one trail is bike-friendly. E-bikes can also be used around campsites.Boating
Boating activities include kayaking, canoeing, and SUPs (stand-up paddleboards). Kayaks are available for self-service rental.Wildlife viewing
Common wildlife sightings include deer, raccoons, and herons. One reviewer mentioned encountering a group of deer daily during their stay.Beach activities
The park has a swimming beach and picnic areas near the water. However, some reviews mention the swimming area is small.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park hosts nature education programs at the amphitheater, covering various topics.Winter Activities
Winter activities include camping, hiking, and nature observation. Some users noted that facilities are operational during colder months, with heated bathrooms available.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding are popular. The calm, no-wake lake makes it ideal for these activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire pits.
- Quiet hours observed after 10 p.m.
Hazards
General hazardsRaccoons are known to raid campsites for food. Fire ants are mentioned as a nuisance in primitive camping spots.
Weather forecast
89
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
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
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Park phone number provided as 903-425-2332; no specific details on hospitals or police stations.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available but specifics on location and pickup schedules are not detailed.
Proximity to water featuresSituated next to a no-wake lake, suitable for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
Common complaintsSome campers have noted small swimming areas, outdated restrooms, and raccoon disturbances.
Campground Map
14225 FM 316 N, EUSTACE, Texas, 75124, United States
Driving directionsFrom Dallas: Take Hwy 175 South 60 miles to Eustace. Turn left on FM 316 N, go North for 3.2 miles to the Park. Entrance on the left. From Austin/San Antonio: Take I-35 North to 84 East. Go about 5 miles to Hwy 31 North to Athens. Take 175 North to Eustace. Turn right on FM 316 (North) for 3.2 miles to the Park. Entrance on the left.
Road access quality is good, with paved roads leading directly to the park. No mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Purtis Creek State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park's pristine cleanliness, friendly staff, excellent fishing opportunities, and well-maintained facilities. However, some complaints mention crowded swimming areas and outdated restrooms.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, friendly staff, excellent fishing, spacious and shaded campsites, varied recreational activities, peaceful environment.
Common Concerns
Swimming area is small and sometimes crowded, restrooms could use updating, some campsites lack sufficient privacy.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Book early for weekends and waterfront sites. Keep food secure due to raccoons. Bring long extension cords for electricity hookups at tent sites.
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall receive the most praise for pleasant weather and fewer bugs. Summer reviews note high temperatures and crowded swimming areas. Winter reviews appreciate heated bathrooms and...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'BEST fishing lake I've ever been to.' 2. 'Bathrooms are clean and pumped with warm air when it’s cold.' 3. 'Primitive camping spots are secluded and right on the water.'
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 22 is noted for waterfront views. Sites 60-64 are recommended for tent camping due to their size and privacy.
Accessibility Features
Fishing piers are wheelchair accessible, and some trails are noted as easy to navigate.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome and the park is described as dog-friendly. However, reviews caution about raccoons raiding food and belongings.
Last updated August 10, 2025