Lake Whitney State Park
00 review433 FM 1244, WHITNEY, Texas, 76692, United States
Lake Whitney State Park
$5.00 - $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 person aged 13 and older. Overnight camping requires additional fees, but specific campsite fees are not listed in the authoritative source.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Lake Whitney State Park reveals itself as a true hidden gem where crystal-clear waters meet limestone cliffs and dense woodlands. This pristine sanctuary invites adventurers to dive into refreshing swimming holes, cast lines into fish-filled waters, explore winding hiking trails, and set up camp under star-filled skies. Families return year after year, drawn by the park's immaculate facilities and the warm hospitality of staff who treat every visitor like an old friend. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn, teaching a child to fish from the shore, or simply soaking in the tranquility of nature, Lake Whitney State Park offers the perfect escape from the everyday.
Lake Whitney State Park provides multiple camping options, including tent sites, RV sites with full hookups, primitive sites, and cabin accommodations.
Historical SignificanceThe timeless landscape of Lake Whitney State Park holds stories yet to be discovered, where ancient limestone formations whisper of geological epochs past and the land itself serves as a testament to Texas's natural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic seasons of Central Texas at Lake Whitney, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Summer brings those legendary Texas days – sweltering heat tempered by moderate breezes off the lake that make afternoon swims absolutely essential. As autumn arrives, the intensity softens into perfect camping weather. Winter transforms the park into a peaceful retreat with crisp, cool air and occasional gentle rains that refresh the landscape, while predominantly dry conditions ensure your outdoor adventures continue uninterrupted. Spring emerges with wildflower blooms and ideal temperatures for every activity the park offers.
ElevationRising and falling with the natural contours of the Texas Hill Country, the park's varied terrain creates diverse ecosystems and stunning vantage points throughout the property.
Natural Features and SceneryDramatic limestone cliffs rise from the water's edge like ancient sentinels, their weathered faces telling stories millions of years in the making. Dense canopies of native Texas trees provide cool shade and shelter for the park's abundant wildlife – watch for graceful deer stepping through the underbrush at dawn and the flash of brilliant blue as Eastern Bluebirds dart between branches. The crown jewel of the park's trail system, the Sunset Ridge Loop, rewards hikers with a spectacular natural phenomenon where fortunate visitors can witness both the sun's descent and the moon's rise in a single breathtaking panorama – a moment that transforms an ordinary evening into an unforgettable memory.
Geological RegionSituated in the magnificent Edwards Plateau of Central Texas, Lake Whitney State Park showcases the region's signature rocky terrain and distinctive limestone cliffs that have been carved by time and water. This geological wonderland offers commanding views across the shimmering expanse of Lake Whitney, where the water meets a landscape adorned with native trees and teeming with diverse wildlife. The park stands as a living classroom of Texas geology, where every trail reveals the powerful forces that shaped this remarkable corner of the Lone Star State.
Campsite details
AccessibilityMultiple restrooms are described as storm shelters, providing additional safety during severe weather. User reviews indicate clean facilities and ease of access.
Sites SizeVaried RV and tent sites, including pull-through and back-in options.
Sites PrivacyUsers noted mixed privacy levels; tent sites near the water were described as having more privacy compared to RV sites.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose waterfront sites for lake views. Avoid west-facing sites to reduce heat exposure. For level ground, site 90 is recommended.
Best CampsitesSite 93 offers a "beautiful view of the lake" but is noted as "very unlevel." Site 90 has some shade and a nice view. Horseshoe Loop is a favorite among campers, offering spacious sites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Park gate open daily 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out times are not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Stay limits are not explicitly stated.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The maximum number of guests per site is not specified.
Groups
No explicit details provided about group sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes loops such as Bluebird and Horseshoe, with a mix of pull-through and back-in RV spots and several tent sites.
Open and Closed SeasonLake Whitney State Park is open year-round. Winter hours for the Park HQ begin December 1, while expanded hours are implemented starting March 1.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online or by calling the park headquarters at 254-694-3793.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability appears to be possible after the office closes, as users mention filling out forms and using the gate after office hours.
Cancellation Policy"If your plans change, please modify or cancel your reservation as soon as possible to allow someone else to enjoy the park." This suggests flexibility but does not detail penalties.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Lodging and accommodations
Electricity hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Lake Whitney State Park offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, wildlife viewing, and biking. User reviews reflect positive experiences with fishing, hiking trails, and swimming areas.
Hiking
Two hiking trails are available, characterized as short and easy. User reviews highlight the scenic views and opportunities to identify wildlife and plants.Fishing
Fishing is highly praised by users, with catches including perch, channel catfish, and striper. Some reviews describe difficulty accessing fishing spots due to rocky terrain.Swimming
Swimming is available at the lake, with a designated swimming area. Some users noted that the swimming spot is more suited for adults due to rough conditions, lacking safeguards for children.Biking
Trails for mountain and surfaced road biking are available.Boating
Boating is supported with access to a boat ramp. Users noted ease of use for boat ramps and opportunities for kayaking.Wildlife viewing
Deer sightings are commonly mentioned in user reviews, along with opportunities to identify various plants and wildlife.Winter Activities
No explicit mention of winter-specific activities.Water Sports
Kayaking and other boating activities are popular among visitors, as highlighted in user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but fallen wood collection is prohibited as the wildlife uses it for habitat.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include rattlesnakes, scorpions, and other insects as highlighted by reviewers. Loose rocks near the water can make fishing difficult.
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned.
Weather forecast
95
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 12.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
The nearest emergency service is in Whitney, approximately 12 miles away. Nearby towns like Hillsboro and Waco also provide hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season details are not explicitly mentioned.
Trash and recyclingNo explicit details provided, but a user review mentioned a lack of trash hanging facilities within the park.
Proximity to water featuresThe park is situated along Lake Whitney, offering swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. Screen shelters and campsites near the shore provide direct water access.
Common complaintsComplaints include "poor maintenance" of screen shelters, proximity of RV sites, and noise levels from neighboring campers.
HostPark hosts are described as "friendly" and "helpful."
Campground Map
433 FM 1244, WHITNEY, Texas, 76692, United States
Driving directionsFrom Dallas/Ft Worth: Take I-35 South to Hillsboro. Exit #370 at Hwy 77 to downtown Hillsboro. Turn right at Hwy 22 West. Go through Whitney for 2 or 3 miles. Turn right at light, on Hwy 933 North for 12 mile Turn left on FM 1244, dead-ends at park. From Austin: Take I 35 North to Waco. Exit on LAKE SHORE DRIVE. Turn left to Hwy 933 North and turn right. Stay on Hwy 933 for 1/2 mile North Hwy 22. Turn left at FM 1244 to the park.
The roads leading to Lake Whitney State Park are paved and accessible year-round. Some user reviews noted narrow campsite loop roads with damaged asphalt along the edges.Nearby places
Hillsboro (25 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Waco (33 miles, approximately 40 minutes), Fort Worth (70 miles, approximately 1.5 hours), Austin (approximately 2 hours).
Nearby supplies
The nearest grocery store is approximately 6 minutes away. Walmart is about a 30-minute drive in Hillsboro, and other smaller shops and camping supply stores are available in nearby towns.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Lake Whitney State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews commonly praise the park's scenic views, clean facilities, and variety of recreational activities. Many describe the park as a wonderful getaway with family-friendly amenities.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Scenic lake views, clean restrooms and shower facilities, friendly staff, and diverse activities including fishing, hiking, and swimming.
Common Concerns
Concerns include difficult access to fishing spots due to rocky terrain, poor maintenance of some facilities, issues with scorpions in screen shelters, and noisy neighbors. Limited trash disposal...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users suggest booking cabins or shelters well in advance, bringing flashlights for evening use, opting for east-side campsites to avoid heat, and preparing for poor network connectivity. Fishing...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews mention long daylight hours and more opportunities for outdoor activities like swimming and fishing, but also note increased temperatures. Winter experiences are described as quieter...
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Camper Quotes
"Lake Whitney State Park is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Texas." "Our campsite had plenty of shade and a great view of the lake." "This place is underrated and really good for camping,...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 93 and 90 in the Bluebird camping loop are mentioned, with site 93 offering great lake views but being unlevel. Site 90 was described as more level and also having a nice view.
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features found.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in the park but restricted from the beach area. User reviews highlight concerns about dogs roaming unsupervised.
Last updated August 10, 2025