Preston Bend
4.0680 reviews129 Preston Bend Park Road, Pottsboro, TX, USA, 75076
Preston Bend
$15.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$26.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $15 to $26 for campsites. Tent-only non-electric sites cost $16 per night during peak season. Standard electrical hookup sites vary depending on specific site amenities, ranging from $15 to $26.
About this campground
Nestled along the Texas shores of Lake Texoma, Preston Bend Campground invites adventurers to experience why this region earned its nickname as the 'Playground of the Southwest.' With 34 thoughtfully positioned campsites ranging from secluded tent-only spots to convenient RV sites with electrical and water hookups, this lakeside retreat serves as your gateway to endless outdoor pursuits. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, navigating the expansive waters by boat, tracking wildlife through wooded trails, or simply watching migratory birds dance across the sky, Preston Bend delivers the authentic Texas outdoor experience that draws visitors back season after season.
Preston Bend Campground provides options for both primitive and developed camping. RV sites feature electrical and water hookups, whereas tent sites are more basic. Group sites and cabin lodging are not explicitly mentioned.
Weather and SeasonsThe dynamic weather at Preston Bend adds character to every camping experience. Spring and summer bring signature Texas winds that whistle through the oak canopy, creating nature's own soundtrack. While summer temperatures can soar to true Texas extremes, early mornings and evenings by the lake offer refreshing respites. Seasoned campers know to prepare for occasional dramatic thunderstorms that roll across the plains, bringing spectacular light shows and that distinctive petrichor scent. Yes, the local ant population thrives in peak summer, but they're just part of the authentic wilderness experience that makes each visit memorable.
ElevationPreston Bend sits at a comfortable elevation that provides gentle rolling terrain perfect for exploration while maintaining easy access to the lake's edge.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground showcases the rugged beauty of Texas's Cross Timbers region, where ancient post oaks and blackjack oaks create a living canopy over rolling hills that seem to stretch endlessly toward the horizon. This distinctive ecosystem creates perfect habitat for an impressive array of wildlife – white-tailed deer emerge at dusk to graze in meadow clearings, wild turkeys strut through the underbrush, and elusive bobcats leave their tracks along hidden trails. Above, red-tailed hawks circle on thermals while the lake attracts countless waterfowl and melodious songbirds, making every sunrise a natural symphony.
Geological RegionPreston Bend occupies a special place in Texas's Cross Timbers region, where millennia of geological forces have sculpted a landscape of gentle hills crowned with resilient post and blackjack oaks. This unique ecoregion, formed where ancient prairies meet eastern woodlands, creates an ecological crossroads that supports remarkable biodiversity. The proximity to Lake Texoma enhances this natural richness, drawing wildlife from both aquatic and terrestrial habitats to create one of North Texas's most vibrant outdoor destinations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly described in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with RV spots featuring water and electrical hookups, and tent-only basic sites available. Specific measurements are not provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by campsite. Some users described their sites as private and secluded, such as Site #12: 'Our site was great. Secluded bay just for us.' Others reported concerns about proximity to roads and other campers.
Total Campsites34 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 15 and 16 are praised for being right on the water. Site 32 is recommended for its peace and lake views but lacks shade. Campsite 14 is noted for its steep incline, so caution is advised for larger RVs.
Best CampsitesCampsite 12 is noted as being 'the best site in the park' with its proximity to water and peaceful setting. Campsite 31 has great views but lacks shade.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive nights allowed is 14.
Groups
No group site details are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutContains 34 sites, divided into sections. Sites are spacious, with some steep or gravel inclines.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 1st to September 29th; closed during the off-season from October 1st to March 31st.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, mobile app, and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly stated in authoritative content; null.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations (within one day of check-in) forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Lake Texoma offers a variety of recreational activities that attract campers year-round. Activities include fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, hunting, and birding. The Cross Timbers hiking trail is particularly popular for its scenic views. User reviews emphasize fishing and swimming as standout pursuits but also mention water skiing and kayaking. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound thanks to the presence of deer, turkeys, bobcats, hawks, waterfowl, and songbirds.
Hiking
The Cross Timbers hiking trail winds for 14 miles above the lake, offering scenic views of rocky ledges and woodland. Users find this trail particularly appealing for its challenging terrain and picturesque backdrop.Fishing
Lake Texoma is renowned as the 'Striper Capital of the World,' supporting naturally reproducing striped bass populations. Anglers also catch largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, and catfish.Swimming
Swimming is available at designated beach areas adjacent to the campground. However, user reviews mention mixed experiences regarding cleanliness and maintenance of these areas.Boating
Boating is a major draw at Lake Texoma, with facilities including a boat ramp and dock. One user review mentioned enjoying convenient access for deploying a kayak.Wildlife viewing
The campground provides opportunities for observing local wildlife, including deer, turkeys, bobcats, hawks, waterfowl, and songbirds. Users appreciate these encounters as adding to the natural charm of the area.Beach activities
Beach activities are popular among campers, including sunbathing and relaxing on sandy shores. However, reviews note occasional littering and overcrowding.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly described.Water Sports
Water sports, including kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing, are commonly enjoyed at Lake Texoma.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must use locally purchased wood due to pest control guidelines.
- Quiet hours are Begins at 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsRecurring issues with ant infestations are highlighted across user reviews. "This is no joke—billions of ants at campsite 14." Some sites are steep or have gravel access roads.
Active alertsNull.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 17.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Partly cloudy
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
The nearest hospital and police station are in Sherman, TX, approximately 20 miles away. Emergency contact number for the campground is 903-465-4990.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1st to September 29th.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are present but have been criticized in user reviews for insufficient maintenance, particularly after weekends: 'Trash was blown everywhere... I constantly had to pick it up off of my site.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Lake Texoma, providing access to sandy beaches, fishing docks, and boat ramps.
Common complaintsAnt infestations, lack of enforcement of quiet hours, steep or gravel site access, occasional trash overflow, and inconsistent maintenance have been reported by users.
HostThe host is frequently praised as helpful and hardworking, but some reviews cite inconsistency in maintenance and management. "The gentleman that cares for the property is a great guy, goes above and beyond to keep the place looking good."
Campground Map
129 Preston Bend Park Road, Pottsboro, TX, USA, 75076
Driving directionsFrom Pottsboro, TX, travel 9 miles north on Hwy 289. Exit right at the campground.
The campground is accessible via Hwy 289, but multiple user reviews have noted challenges with identifying the entrance due to limited signage. "There's no address and the directions are sketchy. Worse, there's almost no signage. We got stuck on a narrow road and had to see-saw to get turned around." Some parts of the entrance road may be steep and gravelly, which could pose problems for larger or long RVs.Nearby places
Pottsboro, TX: 9 miles
Sherman, TX: 20 miles
Denison, TX: 15 miles
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, groceries, and fuel are available in Pottsboro, TX (approximately 9 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.1
80 reviews
Preston Bend is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Preston Bend Campground are highly polarized, ranging from glowing praise of its scenic views and well-maintained facilities to severe criticism of pest infestations and trash management.
Review Summaries
Based on 80 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the campground's beautiful views, clean facilities, and helpful hosts. One user mentioned: 'The sites are as good as you'll find anywhere.' Another stated, 'The park hosts keep the...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The primary complaints include ant infestations, overflowing trash bins, lack of enforcement of quiet hours, and occasional malfunctioning amenities like water hookups and dump stations. Several...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing ant repellents, camping during cooler months, and booking early due to the campground’s popularity. One user advised: 'Bring Wondercide.'
Based on 80 reviewsSeasonal Insights
During peak summer months, the campground experiences high winds, overcrowding, and pest issues such as ants. Reviews suggest that spring and fall offer quieter experiences with better weather...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The sites are as good as you'll find anywhere.'
2. 'Beware of ANTS.'
3. 'The Dawgs are able to swim and enjoy themselves on private beaches while ALWAYS being held accountable for their actions...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #12 is often praised for its privacy and excellent Verizon reception. Site #32 is described as the best location in the park due to its views and proximity to the water, despite being hot in...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is not specifically addressed in user reviews.
Based on 80 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and several users appreciated this feature. One wrote: 'The Dawgs are able to swim and enjoy themselves on private beaches.' Others noted issues with neighbors leaving dog feces...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025