Clear Lake (Tx)
3.9493 reviews8199 County Road 436
Clear Lake (Tx)
$30.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$150.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual campsites operate at $30 per night, while the group sites cost $150 per night. Both fees are applicable during the peak season of Jan 1 to Dec 31. Additional reservation fees may apply depending on the booking method.
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil shores of Lavon Lake, Clear Lake Campground beckons with 23 thoughtfully appointed campsites, each equipped with full hookups for water, sewer, and electric connections. Whether you're seeking solitude in the shade of mature trees or planning a memorable gathering in the spacious group area that welcomes up to 200 guests, this peaceful retreat offers the perfect balance of modern amenities and natural serenity. The campground has earned a reputation as a quiet haven where the gentle lapping of lake waters provides the soundtrack to unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Clear Lake Campground caters to a range of camping styles with its standard electric sites and group camping options.
Historical SignificanceStep into a piece of television history at Clear Lake Campground, located just a stone's throw from the legendary Southfork Ranch. This iconic property served as the backdrop for the acclaimed TV series 'Dallas,' where the Ewing family's dramatic saga unfolded before millions of viewers. Today's campers can explore this slice of pop culture heritage while enjoying the natural beauty that has drawn visitors to this region long before Hollywood discovered its charm.
Weather and SeasonsClear Lake Campground welcomes adventurers year-round, with each season painting the landscape in its own distinctive palette. Spring brings wildflower blooms and perfect camping temperatures, while summer invites long days on the water despite occasional mosquito visitors at dusk. Autumn transforms the canopy into a tapestry of changing colors, and winter offers crisp, clear nights ideal for stargazing. Visitors should come prepared for the occasional Texas breeze that sweeps across the open waters, adding character to the camping experience throughout all twelve months of the peak season.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground's position along Lavon Lake places it within the gently rolling terrain characteristic of North Texas, where the landscape offers both accessibility and scenic vistas across the water.
Natural Features and SceneryClear Lake Campground unfolds across verdant grassy meadows dotted with majestic shade trees that provide welcome relief from the Texas sun. The campground's prime location offers direct access to the sparkling waters of Lavon Lake, where 21,400 acres of pristine reservoir stretch to the horizon. Mature trees frame spectacular lake views, creating natural gathering spaces and private retreats throughout the grounds. The expansive flat fields make it easy to set up camp while maintaining clear sightlines to the water's edge, where sunrise and sunset paint the sky in brilliant hues.
Geological RegionPositioned within the fertile grasslands of North Texas, Clear Lake Campground occupies a unique geological setting where prairie meets water. The campground rests on the shores of Lavon Lake, an impressive 21,400-acre reservoir created by the damming of the East Fork of the Trinity River. This convergence of river valley and constructed lake has created a diverse ecosystem where century-old trees thrive alongside the expansive waters, their leafy canopies providing natural shelter across the gently sloping terrain that characterizes this remarkable region.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground’s amenities include accessible features, though specific details such as ADA-compliant facilities remain unclear.
Sites SizeThe campsites are spacious, providing ample room for RVs and tents, and many offer lake views.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are generously spaced, offering privacy between neighbors. Some sites are secluded while others are close to the lake.
Total Campsites23 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the lake offer better views; interior sites provide more shade. Site #6 is noted for its proximity to the lake and shade.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsites are not ranked highly overall, but some reviews mention favorable experiences in sites #6, #13, and #10.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Gate reopens at 10:00 a.m.
Check-out
Not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
- 14 nights during a visit
- 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Not specified for individual sites
- group site accommodates up to 200 people.
Groups
The group campsite accommodates up to 200 people. It includes toilets reserved for group campers, a picnic shelter with electric and water hookups, four cookers, and a campfire ring. A large playing field is also available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is laid out with 23 full hookup sites and a group area. Sites are spaced out generously, with exterior sites near the lake and interior sites under large shade trees.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Jan 1 to Dec 31 (peak season); some feedback suggests seasonal closures from September to April.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov, online website, contact center, and mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly mentioned; individual sites can be reserved on a 6-month rolling basis.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee prior to arrival; late cancellations forfeit the first night's recreation fee. Changes to reservation dates incur a $10 fee if fully outside the original reservation dates.
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
Cell phone service
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Clear Lake Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking are top activities. The lake is known for its diverse fish population including channel catfish, crappie, striped bass, and hybrid bass. Nature lovers will enjoy bird watching and photography.
Hiking
Hiking options are available through the grassy fields and surrounding areas. Specific trail details, such as length and difficulty, are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight, with anglers often catching channel catfish, crappie, striped bass, and hybrid bass. A fishing dock is available to facilitate the activity.Boating
Boating activities are supported, with a boat ramp available for convenience. Specific boat types and restrictions are not discussed.Wildlife viewing
Bird watchers and photographers will find the area appealing due to its natural beauty and diverse bird population. The neighboring wildlife rescue center adds an educational element.Winter Activities
The campground operates seasonally and does not offer winter-specific activities.Water Sports
Water sports opportunities such as kayaking and paddleboarding are not explicitly mentioned, though the lake may accommodate these activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings are available at the group site; no specific fire policies noted.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsReviews indicate some hazards such as potholes in roads, wasps in bathrooms, and seasonal mosquito presence.
Active alertsNot explicitly mentioned; some reviews cite road and infrastructure issues.
Weather forecast
92
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Emergency services are not explicitly mentioned in the source information.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31
Trash and recyclingGarbage disposal facilities are available, but specific recycling options are not detailed.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is surrounded on three sides by Lavon Lake.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include unmaintained roads, excessive bugs, aggressive park hosts, neglected facilities, and favoritism in site allocation.
HostFeedback on park hosts is highly polarized, with some reviews praising their helpfulness and others criticizing their behavior.
Campground Map
8199 County Road 436
Driving directionsWhile traveling on US Highway 380 in Princeton, TX, take South 2nd Street (County Road 982) South. County Road 982 changes into County Road 735. At the 4 way stop sign (just past the Lavon Lake Camp and Conference Center), take a right on County Road 436. Watch for Clear Lake signs. Take County Road 436 and follow into Clear Lake Park.
The roads leading to the campground are one-lane country roads for about five miles, which require slower navigation. The roads within the campground are noted to be extremely rough, with potholes and washed-out areas, necessitating cautious driving.Nearby places
The campground is northeast of Dallas, Texas, and near Southfork Ranch, known for the TV series 'Dallas.'
Nearby supplies
The campground is close to the town of Wylie, TX, which offers access to a wildlife rescue and education center and likely essential supplies.
Camper Reviews
3.9
93 reviews
Clear Lake (Tx) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment about Clear Lake Campground is divided. Positive reviews highlight the scenic lake views, spacious sites, and friendly staff. Negative feedback often focuses on infrastructure issues, rude or unprofessional staff, and poor maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 93 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the full hookups, spacious sites, and picturesque lake views. Hosts are frequently described as friendly and helpful. The campground is also praised for its peaceful environment,...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include poorly maintained roads, cleanliness issues in restrooms, aggressive or unprofessional staff behavior, and overgrowth of vegetation. Some users reported feeling unwelcome...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own soap and toilet paper for the restrooms. Consider visiting during cooler months for ideal camping weather. Arrive before the gates close at 10 p.m. to avoid parking outside the...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and early summer are the most popular seasons, with campers enjoying the lake and mild weather. In late summer, bugs and heat become problematic. Fall is recommended for its ideal temperatures...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The park is peaceful and offers beautiful sunsets by the lake." - Jacob Hairston. "The bathrooms need work, but the lake views and friendly hosts make up for it." - Craig Waugh. "Great place for...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback is mixed. Campsite 6 is praised for its shade and lake views, while campsite 14 received criticism for infrastructure issues like unlevel pads and poor electrical connections.
Based on 93 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are limited. Some users note that the campground is generally easy to navigate, but detailed comments about ADA-compliant facilities are missing.
Based on 93 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, but some reviews mention conflicts with unleashed camp host dogs. Pet owners are advised to keep their pets leashed.
Based on 93 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025