Malden Lake Campground
4.1678 reviews230 Malden Lake Road
Malden Lake Campground
$24.00 - $48.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$48.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard electric campsites range from $24 to $48 per night depending on the campsite amenities and season. Additional fees may apply for reservations made online or via phone.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Wright Patman Lake, Malden Lake Campground invites you into a serene world where towering pine forests meet crystal-clear waters. This northeast Texas gem offers thoughtfully positioned campsites beneath a verdant canopy, each equipped with water and electric hookups for your comfort. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, gliding across the lake's glassy surface, or quietly observing the abundant wildlife that calls this place home, Malden Lake transforms ordinary weekends into extraordinary outdoor experiences.
Malden Lake Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including RV, tent, and group camping. Each campsite is equipped with water and electricity for convenience.
Historical SignificanceYour wilderness retreat at Malden Lake serves as the perfect basecamp for exploring the rich tapestry of the surrounding region. Just a short drive away, the historic city of Texarkana beckons with fascinating museums, local eateries serving authentic regional cuisine, and storied sites that whisper tales of the Old South. For those seeking a different kind of adventure, cross the state line to Shreveport, Louisiana, where the romance of riverboat gambling mingles with the infectious energy of cultural festivals, offering a vibrant contrast to your peaceful lakeside sanctuary.
Weather and SeasonsOctober through December unveils Malden Lake at its finest, when crisp mornings give way to pleasantly mild afternoons and cool, starlit evenings. This magical time of year creates the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures—imagine sipping coffee as morning mist rises from the lake, spending sun-dappled days exploring, and gathering around crackling campfires as temperatures dip just enough to make the warmth feel like a welcoming embrace. It's the kind of weather that seasoned campers dream about and newcomers never forget.
ElevationElevation details are not provided.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where ancient pine forests create a natural cathedral around your campsite, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. This verdant sanctuary serves as home to an impressive cast of wildlife—majestic bald eagles soar overhead, elegant pelicans glide across the water, wild turkeys strut through the underbrush, and graceful white-tailed deer emerge at twilight. The campground's prime position overlooking Wright Patman Lake offers ever-changing vistas that shift from misty morning serenity to golden sunset reflections.
Geological RegionMalden Lake Campground rests in the heart of Texas's legendary piney woods, where centuries-old forests stretch as far as the eye can see. This enchanting landscape cradles the magnificent Wright Patman Lake, a sprawling 30,000-acre aquatic playground carved into the rolling terrain. Here, carefully managed forestlands blend seamlessly with untouched wilderness, creating an ecosystem where thick stands of pine trees march right to the water's edge, their reflections painting abstract masterpieces on the lake's surface. It's a geological canvas that showcases the natural beauty of northeast Texas at its most captivating.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include lantern posts at campsites and paved sites. Golf carts are permitted for campers with disability placards, as noted in authoritative sources. However, detailed reviews from disabled users were not available.
Sites SizeThe campsites at Malden Lake Campground are described as spacious and well-suited for various activities. One user stated, 'Malden camp sites are spacious with plenty of room for games like Cornhole or horseshoes.' Another mentioned, 'Our spot was a good width and length, and wasn't too close to any neighbors.'
Sites PrivacySites are spaced well apart to provide privacy for campers. According to user reviews, 'Campsites are laid out where you don’t feel too crowded.' Another camper noted, 'The camping spots are not right on top of each other, several pull-through spots available.'
Total Campsites39 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near playgrounds for families are highly recommended. User reviews suggest preparing for ant infestations by bringing insecticides.
Best CampsitesUser reviews suggest sites in the H Loop as desirable for proximity to trails and views. Site H012 is noted for a clean dump station and overall maintenance improvements.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- 11 AM Monday-Saturday
- 1 PM Sunday
Check-out
Not explicitly stated
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. Maximum stay is 42 nights within a rolling 60 days.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops, including H Loop. Sites are spacious and well-shaded.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates from October 1 to December 31 annually. It has been noted to close for seasonal maintenance from June to September in recent years.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly detailed, but online reservations through Recreation.gov are encouraged.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the date of scheduled arrival. A $10 cancellation fee will apply, and the late cancellation will forfeit the first night’s fee in addition to the $10 fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Malden Lake Campground provides a range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing, according to authoritative content. A trail system behind the campsites in the H Loop is particularly noted for walking and enjoying the park's natural beauty. User reviews frequently highlight fishing as a popular activity, with channel catfish being a favorite catch.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include a trail system located behind the campsites in the H Loop. This trail is described as 'great for walking and enjoying the park.' No additional details regarding trail length or difficulty are available.Fishing
Fishing is a major activity at Wright Patman Lake, with anglers often targeting bass, catfish, crappie, and sunfish. One user review mentioned, 'There is nothing better than spending a day on the river catching a mess of channel catfish.'Swimming
Swimming is available at Wright Patman Lake, although specifics about designated swimming areas or safety measures are not provided.Boating
Boating is popular at Wright Patman Lake, and the campground features a courtesy dock and boat ramp for easy access to the water.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding area includes 55,000 acres of public forestland managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Common wildlife includes wild turkey, bobwhite quail, squirrel, white-tailed deer, waterfowl, and migrating bald eagles, pelicans, and ducks.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed in the authoritative sources or user reviews.Water Sports
Several water-based activities like boating and fishing are popular among campers. Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not explicitly mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted, but visitors are urged to buy and burn local firewood to prevent pest infestations.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM cut-off for noise-related activities.
Hazards
General hazardsSome poisonous snakes inhabit the area. Ant infestations are cited as a recurring issue in user reviews. Insects like mosquitoes and biting bugs (possibly chiggers) are also prevalent.
Active alertsThere are no active alerts, but maintenance closures have occurred between June and September in previous years.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency services are not explicitly detailed in the source materials. The nearest likely emergency services would be in Texarkana, TX, approximately 20 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season pricing applies from October 1 to December 31 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are provided at each campsite. However, some users expressed concerns about the placement of trash containers, with one noting, 'I would have liked the trash container to be closer to the campgrounds rather than the dump station.' Recycling facilities are not mentioned in the authoritative sources or reviews.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Wright Patman Lake, the campground includes a boat ramp and courtesy dock for water recreation.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints highlight ant infestations at campsites, cell reception issues, late-night disturbances by teenagers, and insufficient road repairs after maintenance closures.
HostPark hosts are described as friendly and helpful, with prompt responses to issues like electrical outages.
Campground Map
230 Malden Lake Road
Driving directionsFrom I-30, exit onto Highway 8 at New Boston, Texas. Take Highway 8 south through Maud. Approximately six miles south of Maud, the park road will be on the left.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. It is approximately six miles south of Maud, TX, and connected by Highway 8. There is no indication of seasonal closures or significant road challenges.Nearby places
Texarkana region (approximately 20 miles), Shreveport, Louisiana (distance not detailed).
Nearby supplies
Markets and supply stores are noted to be within a short drive. Texarkana (approximately 20 miles) likely has fuel, groceries, and camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.2
78 reviews
Malden Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Malden Lake Campground are mixed but often highlight the cleanliness of facilities and spaciousness of campsites. Positive feedback includes appreciation for the shaded sites and amenities like utility tables and playgrounds. However, issues such as ant infestations and poor cell reception are commonly mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 78 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive highlights include 'beautiful wooded park,' 'lots of shade,' 'clean restrooms and showers,' 'excellent playground equipment,' and 'spacious sites.' Several users also praised the staff for...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints focus on ant infestations, poor cell reception, mosquitoes, maintenance issues such as unmowed grass, and loud or unruly behavior from other campers. Some campers also expressed...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
User recommendations include bringing sugar cubes and borax to combat ants, avoiding summer months due to park closures, and considering insect repellent for mosquitoes.
Based on 78 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that winter months are quieter, making them ideal for campers seeking peace. Spring and fall are popular due to favorable weather and fishing opportunities. Summer closures limit...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms/showers are large, bright and clean and have A/C.' 2. 'Cell service wasn't great, but we didn't go to be on our phones.' 3. 'Ants like you wouldn't believe.' 4. 'Very level site &...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site H004: Frequent ant issues but praised for cleanliness and spaciousness. Site H008: Complaints about human waste and food waste attracting ants. Site P009: Grass maintenance issues noted. Site...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Specific accessibility reviews are not available, but general features like paved sites and disability placards for golf carts suggest some provisions for disabled campers.
Based on 78 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Several reviews mention ants and burrs affecting pets, but overall, the campground is pet-friendly. One user stated, 'Tiny burrs got on everything, especially our dogs.'
Based on 78 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025