Coffee Mill
3.8513 reviewsCaddo-0LBJ National Grasslands, 1400 N, Highway 81/287, Decatur, TX, 76234
Coffee Mill
$0.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $0 to $10 per night for standard nonelectric campsites, depending on season or special discounts. Specific reservation fees apply: $8...
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Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$10.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
ProviderN/AN/A
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil north shore of Coffee Mill Lake, this intimate 13-site campground offers a perfect escape into nature's embrace. Whether you're casting a line from the newly constructed fishing pier, launching your boat onto 750 acres of pristine water, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings, Coffee Mill Campground provides year-round adventures for those seeking respite from the everyday hustle.
Coffee Mill Campground offers standard non-electric campsites suitable for tents and small RVs. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis year-round, with no advanced reservation options for individual sites.
Historical SignificanceStep into a piece of living history at Coffee Mill Lake, where Depression-era ingenuity created what would become a beloved recreational haven. Built in the 1930s, the lake stands as a testament to community resilience and vision. The campground itself emerged in 1968, growing and evolving through the dedication of local volunteers who, in the 1990s, rolled up their sleeves to expand and enhance this treasured outdoor destination.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Texas seasons at Coffee Mill, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Spring and fall emerge as the crown jewels for camping, offering comfortable temperatures and stunning natural displays. While winter brings crisp, clear skies perfect for stargazing, visitors should come prepared for frigid temperatures. Summer adventurers will find refuge on the cooling waters of the lake, though moderate winds throughout the year keep the air fresh and insects at bay.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of Coffee Mill Campground provides easy access to all amenities while offering varied vantage points for taking in the surrounding natural beauty.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the diverse ecosystem of the Caddo-LBJ National Grasslands, where ancient forests meet sweeping prairie vistas. The centerpiece Coffee Mill Lake mirrors the big Texas sky, creating breathtaking sunrise and sunset displays. This unique blend of woodland and grassland habitats attracts diverse wildlife, making every visit a new discovery. From the shore, watch herons wade through shallow coves while hawks circle overhead, all set against a backdrop of native oaks and prairie grasses swaying in the breeze.
Geological RegionDiscover the natural wonders of northeastern Texas in the expansive Caddo-LBJ National Grasslands, where Coffee Mill Campground serves as your gateway to 750 acres of shimmering lake waters surrounded by a tapestry of forest and prairie. This unique geological setting, where ancient oak woodlands transition into native grasslands, creates a diverse landscape that has captivated visitors for generations.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features include vault toilets, drinking water, campsites, grills, parking, and a boat dock.
Sites SizeThe campground features 13 campsites with ample room for tents or small RVs.
Sites PrivacySites are clustered rather than secluded, and the campground is small with about a dozen campsites close to the lake.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites close to the lake for the best views and easier access to the new fishing pier.
Best CampsitesNo specific site numbers provided, but lakefront sites are generally preferred for views and proximity to amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Groups
Group camping details were not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCompact layout with 13 campsites near the lake. Includes amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, lantern posts, and pedestal grills.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. First-come, First-served (FCFS) season operates from June 20, 2025, to December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov mobile app using Scan & Pay feature.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, First-Served basis only. Visitors must physically arrive to claim and pay for sites.
Cancellation PolicyNo refunds, modifications, or cancellations are allowed for Scan & Pay reservations. Treat payments as cash inserted into a fee tube.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Coffee Mill Campground offers a variety of water-based activities such as fishing, boating (both motorized and non-motorized), paddle boating, and water skiing. Additional activities include hiking, camping, and hunting. The lake is a highlight, and the campground is noted for its dark skies, ideal for astrophotography.
Hiking
The campground has hiking trails starting directly from the site. These trails are shaded despite being in a grassland region, providing comfort during hikes.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw at Coffee Mill Lake, supported by the presence of a new fishing pier. However, no specific details about fish species or fishing regulations were provided.Swimming
Swimming is available, but the lake was noted as being "a bit dirty for swimming" by one user. There is no designated beach area.Boating
Boating opportunities include motorized and non-motorized options, with facilities such as a boat ramp and dock available. A user noted, "there is a boat ramp, but no boat dock."Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were outlined.Water Sports
Water sports such as paddle boating and water skiing are available. Non-motorized boating is also a popular activity.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings available at campsites. Specific fire policies not provided.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsLight pollution has increased due to nearby manufacturing facilities. Seasonal weather hazards such as moderate wind gusts may be present.
Active alertsNull
Weather forecast
60
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Null
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities were provided, though a self-pay station is mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Coffee Mill Lake, a 750-acre reservoir. Features include a boat ramp and fishing pier.
Common complaintsIncreased light pollution impacting stargazing. Pit toilets reported in poor condition by some users. Limited swimming access due to lack of dedicated beach area.
HostNull
Campground Map
Caddo-0LBJ National Grasslands, 1400 N, Highway 81/287, Decatur, TX, 76234
Driving directionsFrom Honey Grove, Texas, follow FM 100 north 12 miles to FM 409. Turn left and go west 5 miles to camp entrance on the left.
Accessible via paved FM 100 and FM 409 roads. Some reviews mention potential remoteness but no seasonal closures.Nearby places
Honey Grove, TX (12 miles, approx. 20 minutes)
Decatur, TX (approx. 2 hours driving time)
Dallas, TX (approx. 4 hours driving time).
Nearby supplies
Honey Grove, TX (12 miles): Offers limited supplies including groceries, fuel, and basic amenities.
Camper Reviews
3.9
13 reviews
Coffee Mill has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is generally well-regarded for its scenic lake views, dark skies for stargazing, and water-based recreation. However, some users expressed dissatisfaction with the restroom facilities and recent increases in light pollution.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the campground's "scenic views of the lake," "dark skies" for astrophotography, and its "nice fishing pier." Many highlighted its peaceful, less-visited atmosphere.
Based on 13 reviewsCommon Concerns
The most common complaints were about the "poor condition" of vault toilets, with one user describing them as "basically emergency restroom." Another major concern was the increased light pollution...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own drinking water and prepare for limited cell service. Stargazers should check current light pollution levels before visiting.
Based on 13 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open year-round, but clear skies and moderate temperatures in fall and spring appear to make these seasons ideal for visits, especially for stargazing.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
"A very nice small campground, recreation area, and boat ramp." - Phillip Thompson; "Nice park with scenic views of the lake." - Hamid Sheikh; "Nice campground with about a dozen sites right near the...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground features 13 campsites, all equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and grills. Sites are close to the lake, offering good views but less privacy.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets and parking are accessible, but their condition may not meet all users' expectations.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in the campground, but no additional details about pet-related facilities or restrictions were shared.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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