McCown Valley Horse Camp

For Texans with a love for both camping and equestrian adventure, McCown Valley Horse Camp offers a truly unique and dedicated experience. Located on the eastern shore of the stunning Lake Whitney in Central Texas, this campground is a haven for horse owners and their families. While many parks may offer a trail or two, McCown Valley is specifically designed for equestrians, boasting a network of trails and facilities to accommodate both horses and their riders. It’s the kind of place where you can camp under the stars with your equine companion just steps away, a rare and cherished opportunity in the Lone Star State. The park is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and has a reputation for being a wonderful place to ride, making it a premier destination for anyone seeking a specialized and memorable outdoor getaway.

McCown Valley Horse Camp is more than just a place to stay; it's a community for those who share a passion for trail riding and the great outdoors. The park offers a variety of camping options, from dedicated equestrian sites with pens for your horses to family-friendly spots suitable for both tents and RVs. The environment is described as “good for kids,” making it an ideal choice for a family vacation where everyone, including the four-legged family members, can have a fantastic time. The peaceful setting on Lake Whitney provides a beautiful backdrop for all activities, whether you’re on the trails or relaxing by the water. This article will provide a detailed look into the unique features, services, and accessibility of McCown Valley Horse Camp, helping you plan your next perfect trip to this Central Texas gem.

McCown Valley Horse Camp is located in Cedar Shores, TX 76692, USA, and is specifically situated on the eastern shore of Lake Whitney. While the provided address is a general plus code, the park is easily found by following the signs from nearby Whitney, Texas. From the City of Whitney, you go north on FM 933 to FM 1713, and then turn left to follow the signs into the park. This location is approximately 65 miles south of Fort Worth and 35 miles north of Waco, making it a convenient destination for a significant portion of the Texas population. The park is well-marked with two gated entrances, and a gatehouse attendant is typically on duty during the day to assist visitors.

Accessibility is a key feature of the campground, especially for those with horse trailers and large vehicles. The day-use and equestrian camping areas have large parking spaces with plenty of room to maneuver. For the equestrian campground, there is a gated entrance that requires a code obtained from the gatehouse attendant, which adds an extra layer of security. The park also provides on-site parking at each campsite, ensuring that vehicles are always nearby and secure. This straightforward accessibility, combined with the clear directions, makes for a stress-free arrival, allowing you to get straight to setting up camp and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Services Offered

• Equestrian Camping: The park features a dedicated, gated 29-site equestrian campground with amenities for horses, including tie posts and pens.
• RV Camping: Sites are available with both 30 and 50-amp electrical hookups.
• Water Hookup: Water hookups are available at many sites for convenience.
• Running Water: Running water is available in various areas, including the equestrian day-use and group camping sections.
• Public Restrooms: The campground provides restroom facilities with flushing toilets and hot and cold running water.
• Public Showers: Showers are available in the central restroom facility.
• Barbecue Grills: Each site is equipped with a barbecue grill and a fire ring for cooking.
• Picnic Tables: Picnic tables are provided at each site, with some being covered and on concrete slabs.
• On-site Parking: Dedicated parking is available at each site.
• Horse Pens: Pens are available on a first-come, first-served basis for equestrians.

Features / Highlights

• Equestrian-Specific Trails: The park boasts five miles of trails specifically for horseback riding, traversing through open pastures and wooded areas.
• Horse-Friendly Terrain: The footing is generally soft and sandy, meaning shoes or boots for your horse are often not a necessity.
• Well-Equipped Campsites: Each campsite is well-furnished with essential amenities, including water and electricity, a picnic table, a fire ring, and a barbecue grill.
• Family-Friendly: The park is noted as "Good for kids," offering a safe and enjoyable environment for families, and features a playground and swimming beach.
• Variety of Camping Areas: McCown Valley offers several distinct areas, including a 29-site equestrian campground, 48 family sites, sleeping shelters, and 13 primitive tent sites.
• Access to Lake Whitney: Campers have easy access to the lake for boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking.
• Wildlife: The area is home to abundant wildlife, including deer and wild turkeys, providing great opportunities for nature viewing.

Contact Information

Address: WHRX+68, Cedar Shores, TX 76692, USA

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing McCown Valley Horse Camp is a decision to embrace a truly specialized and well-equipped outdoor experience in Central Texas. The primary reason this campground stands out is its explicit focus on equestrians. For horse owners, the availability of dedicated trails, pens, and camping facilities with tie posts is a game-changer. It eliminates the logistical challenges of traveling with horses, making it an ideal destination for a weekend of trail riding. The sand-based footing on the trails is a significant benefit, providing a great workout for horses without the need for shoes or boots. This unique selling point alone makes it a top choice for a specific niche of campers.

Beyond its equestrian focus, the campground offers a high-quality experience for all visitors. The sites are well-equipped with water and electric hookups, and amenities like flush toilets and showers provide a level of comfort that is highly valued. The family-friendly nature of the park, complete with a playground and swimming beach, ensures that even those without horses can have an enjoyable and active vacation. The direct access to Lake Whitney for fishing, boating, and swimming further enhances the value of a stay here. While some areas may be prone to grass burrs, the overall cleanliness and maintenance of the campground, as well as the beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife, consistently earn it positive reviews. In a state as big as Texas, finding a place that so perfectly caters to a specific interest while still offering a great experience for everyone is a rare find. McCown Valley Horse Camp truly provides a complete and memorable package for an outdoor adventure.

McCown Valley Horse Camp

WHRX+68, Cedar Shores, TX 76692, USA