Ultimate Guide to Camping on the Trinity River in 2025

 Trinity River (Ca) — Shasta Trinity National Forest Camping | Trinity ...

The Trinity River, spanning both Texas and California, offers a diverse array of camping experiences, from serene lakeside retreats to adventurous paddling excursions. Whether you're seeking a tranquil getaway or an action-packed outdoor adventure, the Trinity River has something to offer every camping enthusiast.(shastatrinitycamping.com)


🏞️ Trinity River Camping in Texas

1. Wolf Creek Park – Lake Livingston

Located near Coldspring, Texas, Wolf Creek Park on Lake Livingston is a family-friendly destination offering a tranquil environment for camping. The park features 54 campsites with full RV hookups, including 50-amp service, and 48 sites with water and electricity. Amenities include a marina, fishing piers, boat ramps, volleyball and basketball courts, playgrounds, and clean restrooms and showers. (trinityra.org, trinityra.org)

2. Coleman's Campgrounds – Midway

Situated along the Trinity River in Midway, Texas, Coleman's Campgrounds offers a natural sand shoreline and water access for all campsites. The river is accessible to both motorized and non-motorized boats, making it ideal for fishing and boating enthusiasts. (colemanscampgrounds.com)

3. Trinity Adventure Park

Located in Trinity, Texas, Trinity Adventure Park provides 20 camping sites, including six with full hookups, six with water and electricity, eight tent sites, and one group site for RV, car, or tent camping. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all visitors. (visittrinity.com)

4. Outback Campground and Marina – Trinity

Outback Campground and Marina, situated on Lake Livingston in Trinity, Texas, offers waterfront and non-waterfront cabins, as well as spacious, full-service waterfront RV sites with 30 or 50-amp service. The campground provides easy access to fishing, boating, and other water activities. (outbackcampground.com)


🛶 Trinity River Paddling Adventures

Trinity River Paddling Trail

The Trinity River Paddling Trail is a designated National Recreational Trail that spans 130 river miles, covering nine cities and three counties. With 21 official launch sites along its length, the trail allows access to three major river tributaries: the Clear Fork, West Fork, and Elm Fork, as well as 40 miles of the main stem. (trinitycoalition.org)

Dallas Trinity Paddling Trail

The Dallas Trinity Paddling Trail offers a 10.2-mile route combining a 3.7-mile stretch from the put-in to the Dallas Wave along a channelized portion of the river, providing a great view of downtown Dallas, and a 6.5-mile stretch along the natural wood-lined meandering river from the Dallas Wave to Loop 12. This trail offers a unique urban paddling experience. (tpwd.texas.gov)

Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge Paddling Trail

The Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge Paddling Trail is a 6-7 mile loop that takes around 2-3 hours to float through. This section of the West Fork of the Trinity River is located between Eagle Mountain Lake dam and Lake Worth. The trail follows the river downstream into Greer Island Bay, one of the most scenic and natural sections of the Trinity River in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. (en.wikipedia.org)


🌲 Trinity River Camping in California

Trinity River Campground – Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Located in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, the Trinity River Campground offers seven single campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. The campground is more primitive, with no potable water and vault toilets available. It's ideal for those seeking a rustic camping experience. (recreation.gov)

Hayden Flat Campground

Situated along the Trinity River, Hayden Flat Campground is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and picnicking. The campground offers various amenities, including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to the river for water activities.

Trinity River Resort & RV Park – Lewiston

Trinity River Resort & RV Park in Lewiston, California, offers a serene setting for camping along the Trinity River. The park provides RV sites and tent camping options, along with amenities like picnic areas and river access for fishing and boating.(tripadvisor.com)


🧰 Camping Tips for Trinity River Adventures

  • Permits and Regulations: Check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before camping or engaging in water activities.

  • Weather Conditions: Monitor weather forecasts, especially during spring and fall, as conditions can change rapidly.

  • Wildlife Awareness: Be aware of local wildlife, including bears in California and alligators in Texas.

  • Safety Gear: Always wear a life jacket when paddling and ensure all gear is securely fastened.

  • Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.


🗺️ Nearby Attractions

  • Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge (Texas): Established in 1994, this 30,000-acre refuge aims to protect a portion of the bottomland hardwood forest ecosystem along the Trinity River. It offers opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. (en.wikipedia.org, trinitytrailsfw.com)

  • Trinity Alps Wilderness (California): Known for its rugged terrain and pristine lakes, this wilderness area is a haven for hikers and backpackers seeking solitude and natural beauty.

  • Trinity Lake (California): A popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping, Trinity Lake offers stunning views and numerous recreational opportunities. (en.wikipedia.org)


🧭

The Trinity River, with its diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities, offers a unique camping experience in both Texas and California. Whether you're exploring the urban paddling trails in Texas or seeking solitude in the California wilderness, the Trinity River provides a backdrop for memorable outdoor adventures. Plan your trip accordingly, respect local regulations, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Trinity River.



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