Johnson Creek Camp
4.39454 reviews580 Crestwood Lp. Avinger, TX 75657
Johnson Creek Camp
$18.00 - $175.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
Hookup Site Fee$32.00
Premium Site Fee$175.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$18.00
Group Site Fee$175.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fee structure varies by site type and season. RV sites with electricity range from $28 to $32 per night. Tent sites with electricity cost $20 per night, and standard tent sites without electricity are $18 per night. Premium group camping sites are $175 per night.
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil shores of Lake O' The Pines, Johnson Creek Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of waterfront serenity and forest adventure. Whether you're rolling in with your RV, pitching a tent under towering pines, or gathering with friends for a group camping experience, this East Texas gem provides the ideal basecamp for your lakeside escape.
Johnson Creek Campground offers a mix of camping accommodations, including RV, tent, and group camping options. It caters to diverse camping preferences with its range of facilities and site types.
Historical SignificanceBorn from the construction of Ferrell's Bridge Dam across Big Cypress Bayou, Lake O' The Pines stands as a testament to human ingenuity in flood control for the Red River Basin. Just a short drive away, the historic town of Jefferson invites campers to step back in time, exploring antebellum homes, riverboat history, and cultural treasures that tell the story of East Texas's rich heritage.
Weather and SeasonsEast Texas greets visitors with a dynamic climate that shapes each season's unique camping experience. Summer brings intense heat that can soar above 100°F, making early morning hikes and afternoon lake swims the perfect rhythm. As autumn arrives, the landscape transforms with cooler temperatures and occasional refreshing rains. Winter offers mild, crisp days ideal for hiking, while spring bursts forth with wildflowers, gentle showers, and the most sought-after camping conditions of the year.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain creates natural amphitheaters of camping spots, each offering its own perspective of the surrounding landscape and lake views.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the enchanting Pineywoods forest, where towering pines create a natural cathedral above your campsite. The shimmering waters of Lake O' The Pines stretch before you, offering endless vistas that change with each passing hour. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in frequent deer sightings at dawn and dusk, while fall and winter bring the majestic sight of bald eagles soaring overhead, adding a touch of wilderness magic to your camping experience.
Geological RegionJohnson Creek Campground sits in the heart of the legendary Pineywoods of East Texas, within the culturally rich Ark-La-Tex region where three states converge. This unique location offers campers the quintessential East Texas experience: dense pine forests that whisper ancient stories, the expansive waters of Lake O' The Pines that reflect endless Texas skies, and a landscape that seamlessly blends the wild beauty of the forest with the recreational paradise of the lake.
Campsite details
AccessibilityRestrooms and showers are accessible, but some users report challenges with facility conditions. For instance, a user noted that 'lighting in the men's bathroom was out for two weeks and reported multiple times.' No specific ADA-compliant features are highlighted.
Sites SizeThe campsites are generally well-sized, with RV sites offering level concrete pads. However, some sites are described as 'cramped,' while tent sites are noted as spacious with electric options.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies; some users noted sites are 'too close together' and that 'you can touch the camper next to you,' while others appreciated the space and views.
Total Campsites85 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites in loop R3 are recommended for RVs due to paved pads and level ground. Tent campers often prefer loops T2 and T1 for spacious sites and proximity to water.
Best CampsitesSpecific user reviews highlight sites E315, E407, and T205 for their lake views, privacy, and proximity to amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
2PM
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum stay per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy varies by site type.
Groups
The group camping area includes 12 RV campsites with water and electric hookups, along with a covered picnic shelter, restrooms, and showers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into several loops (R1-R4, T1-T2, GCAM), with varying proximity to water and facilities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, with peak season from January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available but limited. Reviews suggest early arrival during weekends and peak seasons.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee plus loss of the first night's recreation fee if canceled within 24 hours of the scheduled check-in.
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
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Johnson Creek Campground offers a wide array of recreational activities. Boating, fishing, wildlife viewing, and water sports are highly popular. The lake is known for its rich fishing opportunities, including largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Visitors also enjoy birdwatching, with frequent sightings of bald eagles. Hunting is allowed in nearby public lands.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities include bank fishing along the shore and below the dam, as well as boat fishing. The lake is home to largemouth, spotted, and white bass, along with crappie, catfish, and sunfish.Swimming
A designated swimming beach is available in the park, providing a safe area for water activities.Biking
While no dedicated biking trails are mentioned, a user noted, 'Great place to camp, bike ride, and boating,' suggesting general biking opportunities within the park.Boating
Boating is a popular activity, with a boat ramp provided for easy lake access. Some users mentioned boating as a key highlight of their visit.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, with frequent sightings of deer and various bird species. A user noted, 'Lots of deer wandering throughout the campground.'Beach activities
The campsite features a swimming beach where visitors can engage in beach-related activities.Winter Activities
Birdwatching is noted as a popular activity during fall and winter, with bald eagle sightings being a highlight.Water Sports
The lake supports a variety of water sports, but specific activities like kayaking or paddleboarding are not explicitly mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated rings only and must comply with local fire restrictions.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include falling tree limbs during storms, barking dogs, and occasional power outages. Dead trees have caused damage to tents and RVs in the past.
Active alertsNo current alerts or warnings.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
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
Nearest hospital: Christus Good Shepherd Medical Center in Marshall, TX (22 miles, approximately 30 minutes drive). Police and fire services available in Jefferson, TX.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are located throughout the park, with dumpsters available. Some users mentioned issues with trash, such as unpleasant odors near dumpsters.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly on Lake O' The Pines, offering easy access to swimming, fishing, and boating.
Common complaintsComplaints from users include dirty restrooms, inconsistent mowing, low water pressure, and proximity of campsites. Buzzards and ants are frequently mentioned as nuisances.
HostPark hosts are frequently praised for their helpfulness and professionalism in user reviews.
Campground Map
580 Crestwood Lp. Avinger, TX 75657
Driving directionsFrom Jefferson, Texas, travel 3.8 miles northwest on Highway 49. Turn left onto FM 729 and continue for 8.5 miles to the park entrance on the left.
Paved roads lead to the campground, and the entrance is well-marked. Some user reviews state that larger motorhomes may face challenges due to tight curves within the campground.Nearby places
Jefferson, TX (12 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Marshall, TX (22 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Dollar General and a bait shop are located just outside the campground entrance. Grocery and fuel options are available in Jefferson, TX, about 12 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
454 reviews
Johnson Creek Camp is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic beauty, wildlife, and recreational opportunities at Johnson Creek Campground. Many appreciate the level RV pads and lake views. However, issues such as restroom cleanliness, site overcrowding, and maintenance are frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 454 reviews
What Campers Love
- 'Beautiful campgrounds with amazing lake views.' - 'Wildlife sightings, including deer and birds, add to the charm.' - 'Playground is great for kids.' - 'Fishing and boating opportunities are...
Based on 454 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- 'Restrooms and showers are often dirty and in disrepair.' - 'Sites are too close together, offering little privacy.' - 'Grass is not mowed regularly, leading to tall grass and mosquito issues.' -...
Based on 454 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- 'Bring ant spray and mosquito repellents.' - 'Plan for potential restroom issues by bringing cleaning supplies.' - 'Choose sites with lake views for a more scenic experience.' - 'Avoid sites with...
Based on 454 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are the most positively reviewed seasons, with milder weather and abundant wildlife. Summer reviews often note high temperatures and mosquito issues, while winter reviews highlight...
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Camper Quotes
- 'Quiet and peaceful campground nestled among the tall pines of East TX.' - 'The bathrooms in area 1 were terrible. We had to clean them ourselves.' - 'The deer sightings were the highlight of our...
Based on 454 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- E108: 'The sewer connection was uphill, making drainage difficult.' - E407: 'Nice lake views but issues with barking dogs and bathroom conditions.' - T203: 'Restrooms were out of service;...
Based on 454 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
- 'Walking far is a challenge for handicapped visitors; closer sites to restrooms would be helpful.' - 'Lighting in the men's restroom was out for weeks, posing a safety risk.'
Based on 454 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
- 'Pets are allowed, but leash rules are not always enforced.' - 'Experienced multiple unleashed dogs barking and wandering.'
Based on 454 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025