Sanford Yake

Star4.58
57 reviews
Sanford Yake
$0.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Campsites without hookups are free, while RV sites with water and electricity can cost up to $24 per night.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$24.00
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$24.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
806-865-3131

About this campground

Perched high on dramatic bluffs above Lake Meredith, Sanford Yake campground beckons adventurers with its dual personality – modern RV sites for those seeking comfort and free primitive camping for the wilderness-hearted. This beloved destination draws visitors back time and again with its spotless facilities, sweeping vistas, and the kind of wide-open spaces that make you want to breathe deeper. Whether you're pulling in with a fully-equipped RV or pitching a tent under the stars, you'll find yourself part of a vibrant camping community that knows a good thing when they see it.
Sanford Yake offers a mix of camping options, including free primitive sites and paid RV sites with hookups. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, except for reservable RV spaces.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature keeps things interesting at Sanford Yake, where legendary winds sweep across the open landscape with an energy that's both invigorating and humbling. Summer brings the kind of heat that makes lake views even more enticing, while spring and fall deliver those perfect camping days – warm sunshine, cool evenings, and weather that practically begs you to stay outside just a little longer. Pack your windbreaker and sunscreen; you'll likely need both.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to have your breath taken away – and not just by the wind. Sanford Yake serves up some of the most spectacular sunsets in Texas, painting the sky in impossible shades of orange, pink, and purple that reflect off Lake Meredith's expansive waters. The landscape here is refreshingly honest: wide-open spaces with few trees mean nothing stands between you and those jaw-dropping panoramic views. It's the kind of raw, unfiltered beauty that reminds you why you fell in love with camping in the first place.
Geological RegionSet within the stunning Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, Sanford Yake showcases the dramatic interplay between water and desert that defines this unique corner of Texas. The campground's position atop the area's characteristic high bluffs offers a front-row seat to the geological drama below, where an unexpected oasis of blue water carves through the arid landscape. It's a testament to nature's ability to surprise and delight, creating beauty in the most unexpected places.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityRestrooms are equipped with accessibility features, and campsites are spacious with a mix of concrete pads and gravel options, suggesting potential ease of access for campers.
Sites SizeSites include a mix of concrete and gravel pads. RV spaces are equipped with hookups and pull-through parking.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are widely spaced with shade shelters, providing a good level of privacy despite limited tree coverage. One user noted, 'The sites are spread far apart from each other, giving much privacy.'
Total Campsites61 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose spots based on your preference for hookups or primitive camping. Sites closer to the lake provide better views but may be more exposed to wind.

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
Stay limit is unspecified but noted as 14 days free camping in user reviews.
Guests Allowed Per Site
User reviews do not specify the guest limit per campsite.
Groups
No information provided about group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground has widely separated sites, providing privacy despite the open terrain.
Reservation PlatformsReservation is managed by Wright On Bait and Tackle for RV hookup spots, not through official government systems.
Walk-in AvailabilityMajority of the campsites are on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cancellation PolicyCampground is first-come, first-serve for most sites, and cancellation fees are not applicable to these.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups

Activities you can enjoy

Sanford Yake offers a variety of recreational activities centered around its scenic views and proximity to Lake Meredith. Activities include camping, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the scenic lake views.
Fishing
Fishing is available and well-supported, with users praising the quality of catches and proximity to fishing areas.
Boating
Boating facilities are available with easy access to launch areas, as noted by users. User reviews highlight the enjoyment of boating activities.
Wildlife viewing
The campground offers opportunities for wildlife viewing. A notable review mentions, 'Whether it is for a long weekend or just the weekend, the area is perfect for observing nature.'
Winter Activities
No information about winter recreation activities was provided.
Water Sports
Boating and fishing are the primary water-based activities supported at Sanford Yake.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires are allowed in designated pits.

Hazards

General hazardsWildlife such as skunks are a concern, as noted in user reviews. The area also experiences very strong winds.

Weather forecast

53
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected

Humidity: 32%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 19.6 mph

Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Good to know

Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles and dumpsters are widely available throughout the campground, ensuring cleanliness. User reviews emphasize the presence of trash cans near campsites and urge campers to respect the environment by using them properly.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground overlooks Lake Meredith, but access to the shoreline is described as steep and challenging.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints highlight "strong winds" and litter left behind by previous campers.

Campground Map

Driving directionsDirections are available at https://www.nps.gov/lamr/planyourvisit/camping.htm.
The campground is described as being accessible but with potential challenges concerning steep access to the shoreline.

Camper Reviews

4.6
57 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Sanford Yake is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Sanford Yake as a clean, well-maintained campground with fantastic lake views, spacious sites, and convenient amenities like free showers and flush toilets. While many reviews are positive about the free sites, some users expressed dissatisfaction with management of paid RV sites and occasional cleanliness issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 57 reviews

What Campers Love

Excellent lake views, clean restrooms and showers, spacious campsites, free primitive camping options, and friendly staff. One review states, 'Awesome views of the lake, beautiful sunsets. Perfect...
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Based on 57 reviews

Common Concerns

Windy conditions, occasional issues with shower drainage, and challenges in booking or payments for RV sites managed by nearby 'Wright-On Bait & Tackle.'
Based on 57 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring mosquito repellent due to high mosquito presence. Tent campers should prepare for hard and dry ground with tools like mallets for stakes. Expect strong winds, especially in spring. Book RV...
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Based on 57 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Windy conditions are prominent during spring, but users generally find the campground peaceful during other seasons. Fall appears ideal when winds subside and temperatures are moderate.
Based on 57 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Great FREE camping spot! Electric & water hookup for an extra nominal fee. Clean restrooms with flush toilets and SHOWERS!' (Carole Schlenker). 'Anyone who rates a free campground with fantastic...
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Based on 57 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

RV hookup sites are closer to restroom facilities but may lack charm compared to free sites, which offer better views and privacy.
Based on 57 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground is noted for its spacious and well-laid-out sites, ensuring accessibility. One user commented, 'Sites have roomy spots and trash receptacles.'
Based on 57 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome but must be leashed at all times. A review warns, 'Make sure your dog is on a leash during the night—skunks are present.'
Based on 57 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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