Choose from a wide variety of public use areas.  Public lake areas are great for overnight tent camping, swimming, fishing, boat launching or just come for a day to have a picnic.  Public Use Areas are managed by the Brazos River Authority (BRA). The BRA does not take reservations for public tent camping sites. Sites are available on a first come, first served basis. There are no electric or water hook-ups at BRA campsites.

Click here for a map of public use areas.

BRA Public Use Area Rules:

Bring your own charcoal or camp fuel.  Cutting trees is not allowed.  Firewood bundles area available at local convenience stores. 

Campers who wish to use areas for more than one week shall obtain permission from the BRA.

Keep your pets on a leash at all times - for your pet's safety and the safety of all visitors.

Check Out Times: Day Users - 9pm - Campers - 12noon

BRA Area #1 – Scenic Cove - no fee

Located off Park Road 36, turn south on LaVilla Road.  Approximately 30 campsites, boat ramp will accommodate all boat types, accessible at higher lake levels, courtesy boat dock, picnic areas with tables/shelters and grills, swimming area, and restrooms. No fee required. Open all year.

BRA Area #2 – Downtown PK - no fee-NO WATER ACCESS.

Located next to Sam’s One-Stop on Park Road 36.  Approximately 25 campsites, restrooms, no water access.  No fee required.  Open all year.

BRA Area #4 North – North D & D - fee during weekends/peak season

Located on FM 2951, on north side of road 1-1/3 miles after junction with Park Road 36. Approximately 75 campsites, boat ramp will accommodate all boat types, accessible at higher lake levels, courtesy dock, picnic areas with tables/shelters and grills/fire pits, swimming area, restroom and shower facilities, (handicap accessible) and a new kids playground area. $3/person day use fee on weekends and holidays from mid-May to mid-September, children under 13 free. Tent camping fee is $10 per camp site per night. No day use or camp site fees on weekdays or during winter months. Open all year.

BRA Area #4 South – South D & D - no fee

Located off FM 2951, on south side of road, 1-1/3 miles after junction with Park Road 36. Approximately 50 campsites, boat ramp will accommodate all boat types, accessible at various lake levels, courtesy dock, picnic areas with tables, grills/fire pits, swimming area, fishing pier, restrooms (handicap accessible). No fee required. Open all year.

BRA Area #5 – Bug Beach - no fee

Located off FM 2951; take third paved road left after Public Use Area #4S. Approximately 100 campsites, boat ramp will accommodate all boat types, accessible at higher lake levels, courtesy dock, picnic areas with tables and grills/fire pits, swimming area, restrooms. No fee required. Open all year.

BRA Area #6 – Sandy Beach - fee during weekends/peak season 

Located at the west end of FM 2951.  Approximately 45 campsites, boat ramp will accommodate all boat types, accessible at higher lake levels, courtesy dock, picnic areas with tables/shelter and grills/fire pits, swimming area, restrooms and shower facilities (handicap accessible) and a new kids playground area. $3/person day use fee on weekends and holidays from mid-May to mid-September, children under 13 free. Tent camping fee is $10 per camp site per night.  No day use or camp site fees on weekdays or during winter months. Open all year.

BRA Area #7 – Brazos River Area - no fee 

Located below the dam off Hwy 16 South. Small boat river accesses by bridge at Hwy 16. Approximately 10 campsites, picnic areas with tables and grills, restrooms.  No fee required. Open all year.

BRA Area # 8 - West Side Public Ramp - no fee 

Located at the end of FM 1148-west side PK lake.  Approximately 5 campsites, boat ramp will accommodate all boat types, accessible at higher lake levels.  No fee required.  Open all year.