Caddo Lake State Park Campground

Thirty-nine sites spread through towering bald cypress and tupelo trees along the edge of Texas’s only natural lake. Half the sites offer water and electric hookups, while others keep it primitive under the canopy. The place feels like Louisiana bayou country — Spanish moss drapes everything, and the still water reflects massive cypress trunks. Sites 20-25 sit closest to the water with the best sunrise views. Fires allowed in provided rings, but gathering dead wood from the swamp floor is prohibited.

The real draw is launching your kayak or canoe right from camp into the maze of sloughs and channels. Spring through fall brings decent fishing for bass and catfish. Winter can be surprisingly cold and wet, with the cypress trees bare and the swamp looking more haunting than magical. Reserve ahead for weekends — this place books solid during fall color season.

Cypress swamp camping on Texas's only natural lake