Nestled Between Waco And Shreveport Is A Scenic Texas Escape With Lake Fun, Camping, And A Beach

Texas has a reputation for going big, and its lakes are definitely no exception. You can find thousands of watering holes scattered around the state, many of which lie on the east side of the region. Lake Jacksonville is one. The man-made reservoir sits right off U.S. Routes 69 and 79 on the outskirts of Jacksonville. The some 1,300-acre lake, which lies roughly halfway between Waco and Shreveport, Louisiana, was created in the late 1950s by damming up a section of Gum Creek, a tributary of the Neches River. Lake Jacksonville initially served as a municipal water supply for its namesake city but eventually became a haven for recreationists and retirees, thanks to its scenic beauty and waterfront homes.

The reservoir is popular for its largely clear waters and stunning forest scenery. "Absolutely the best lake I have ever been too [sic]," one visitor raved in a Google review, highlighting the "beachy vibe" of the sands. "It was peaceful, quiet, and a great spot for a walk," another shared. From boating and kayaking to swimming and wildlife watching, Lake Jacksonville makes for a quintessential East Texas escape, tucked away in the underrated tree-filled Piney Woods region. The reservoir's recreational area also has campsites along the tree-studded shoreline, perfect for a night or two away in the great outdoors.

Lake Jacksonville, with its scenic sandy beach and calm ripples, is right up there with some of the best Texas lakes for sunny shores and smooth waters. As one Google reviewer shared, it's a "great place to bring your family," especially if you want to relax on the shore or do some swimming. Slather on some sunscreen, roll out a blanket, and lounge out on the little stretch of sand, located right off Lakeshore Drive by the campground. The strand hugs a little wooded peninsula at Lake Jacksonville Park, also known as the Lake Jacksonville Recreation Area, just a few miles from downtown Jacksonville.

From the soft sands, you can access the designated swimming area. Just note, there aren't any lifeguards on duty, so you'll have to swim at your own risk, but loaner life vests are available for kids on a first-come, first-served basis. There's also a pier and a ramp if you want to take your kayak, canoe, or boat out for a spin. No matter how you choose to enjoy the waters, keep an eye out for wildlife around the reservoir and forested lands beyond. You may be able to see kinglets and nuthatches flittering through the branches, or if you're lucky, bald eagles soaring overhead in the winter months. Deer and red foxes have also been known to roam the grounds. Be sure to watch for snakes, too. 

Stretching along the forested peninsula, the Lake Jacksonville Campground has a fantastic panoramic vantage point of the reservoir. With scenery like that, it's safe to say that this locale couldn't get any better. Just take it from one past camper, who penned online, "Very nice camp spot. Beautiful views, great quiet location." The campground is pretty compact, with only 27 campsites available, so you may want to book your reservation well ahead of time. You can take a peek at the online map to better orient yourself to the grounds. 

In a nutshell, there are seven grassy areas toward the middle of the campground dedicated to tents. The remaining campsites are scattered along the shoreline and boast water views. There are 10 campsites that can accommodate RVs. If you want that rugged camping feel without sacrificing comfort, 10 feature screened, enclosed shelters, a handful of which also have RV pads. Water and electric hookups are available, and most of the campsites have picnic tables and barbecue pits. Restroom and shower facilities can also be found on-site, along with a sewer dump station. 

The Lakeview RV Resort on the north end of the reservoir is another good camping option, with spacious pet-friendly spots, full hookups, complimentary Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities available on-site. If you're looking for more waterfront spots to pitch a tent around the country, check out our list of the best lakeside camping destinations in America.