About MCCOWN VALLEY
Overview McCown Valley is located on Whitney Lake on the main channel of the Brazos River in Central Texas. Over two million people visit Whitney Lake each year to enjoy the plethora of recreational activities and scenic beauty the lake provides. Recreation McCown Valley offers five miles of trails in its equestrian park. Visitors enjoy riding their horses through open pastures and wooded areas near the lake. Boating, fishing, swimming, canoeing and kayaking are popular activities at Whitney Lake. Anglers can fish for a variety of bass, crappie and catfish with a state fishing license.Facilities This year-round campground offers a variety of sites to suit all kinds of campers, including 39 equestrian sites, 48 family sites, five sleeping shelters, and a day-use picnic shelter, all with electric and/or water hookups. 13 primitive tent sites are also available. Amenities include flush and pit toilets, showers, drinking water and a dump station. A boat ramp, playground and trails are also on-site.Natural Features The park is situated on the lakeshore among gently rolling hills covered with cedar, Live oak and Post oak. Deer and wild turkeys roam the area. Nearby Attractions
How to Get There
From I-35 in Hillsboro, take HWY 22 west 12 miles to Whitney, exit 933 north for 2.5 miles to FM 1713. Proceed 6 miles west, following signs into campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to MCCOWN VALLEY
Heading to MCCOWN VALLEY? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for MCCOWN VALLEY?
No central reservation system listed for MCCOWN VALLEY. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232637) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to MCCOWN VALLEY?
From I-35 in Hillsboro, take HWY 22 west 12 miles to Whitney, exit 933 north for 2.5 miles to FM 1713. Proceed 6 miles west, following signs into campground.
How do I contact MCCOWN VALLEY?
You can reach the park at phone: 254-622-3332.
References & Official Resources
