Spring Camping at Tyler State Park and Lake Tawokoni State Park

After our success last fall we went out camping twice this spring.  We're actually supposed to be going out again last weekend, but it's been WAY too hot for that.  Our two trips were both to new state parks Tyler State Park and Lake Tawonkoni State Park. Both are east of DFW.  We enjoy this part of the state, mostly due to the trees.

Is it time to get in the truck and go camping yet Mom?

We've gotten our camping preparations pretty organized now, so our third and fourth camping trips as a family of three plus to dogs was much easier.  We have started to develop some systems for what stays on the camper, what comes into the house, and where everything is stored.  It makes it so much easier and therefore more enjoyable.

The camper at Lake Tawonkoni

Here's what our current set-up looks like.  We don't always bring two coolers, but with temperatures in the 90's on this trip, one was devoted purely to drinks.  For Christmas I received a camp kitchen that was on my list.  We had been wanting to have a surface to cook on outside and we thought one of these would fit the bill.  Two trips in and I can say it is great.  I was a little nervous that it would be took clunky and wouldn't be able to be stored in the camper, but neither it true.  With a little bit of effort I can set the thing up on my own and all folded down it fits under the banquet when the camper is down.  If you camp, you should consider purchasing one.

Tyler State Park was beautiful.  We had sort of strange weather weekend with highs in the 80's one day and the 60's the next, as well as some crazy storms.  We now know with 100% certainty that our camper is waterproof.

Tyler State Park

Tyler State Park is situated around a really nice, but small lake.  We stayed in the Lakeview Loop, though on the wrong side of the road to be waterside.  It was definitely the best choice and worth the small upgrade in price.  Even on our side of the road we had a nice unobstructed view of the water and an easy walk down to throw things in.  When you're two this is a great way to spend time.  Many a sweet gum ball was thrown into the water.

The lake at Tyler at our campsite

Due to the storms the first night the campground was without electricity.  Fortunately, we have the means to cook with or without electricity and it was cool enough that we didn't mind making a fire.  On the negative side, automatic bathrooms don't work with out electricity.  (two other restrooms were unaffected)  It took them all day, but right before dinner everything cam back on.

Taking a "hike" to the playground.

There's a lot to do at this park.  They have hiking trails, a nice swimming area, a playground, extensive boat rentals, and ranger talks.  After our night of storms we skipped the Bird Watching 101 talk we had planned on attending and had a relaxed day.  We did take a bunch of walks (with and without dogs) and hit the playground for a bit.

Lake Tawonkoni is a very different park that Tyler.  It is on a large reservoir that has good fishing.  Fortunately it also has good rock throwing areas.  Unfortunately, our campsite wasn't very private or near the water.

A cove on Lake Tawokoni

There was also A LOT of poison ivy around.  Nobody who was canine or under the age of three was allowed to touch anything green without prior approval from someone who was over 40 years old and human.  Happily, we all made it home rash free.

Lake Tawonkoni's swimming area

It seems like most of the people camping were there to go boating or fishing (there was a l-o-n-g line at the fish cleaning station Saturday afternoon) they also have a pretty nice swimming area.  The water levels were a little low, so it seemed really shallow to me.  Even though it was hot, we still took plenty of walks and even ventured down an actual hiking trail this time.  

"Hiking" to go and see the lake

We honestly didn't like it as much as Tyler (our favorite park so far).  While it was pretty, it's also not layed out as well, didn't have a playground, and was very busy with day use people.  I doubt we will go back anytime soon, but we've already made a reservation for September at Tyler again.  Good thing we didn't wait either, they are booked every weekend in September and October already.

A cove at Lake Tawokoni

Everyone in the family is definitely getting into a camping groove and we are having more fun each time we go out.  Even the dogs seems crazy excited to get out camping. It's definitely a great way to spend time as a family outdoors.

Cranking down the camper..."I do myself"