About JOHNSON CREEK DAY USE
Overview Johnson Creek Day Use Area is situated along the banks of the Lake O' the Pines in the Ark-La-Tex portion of the Pineywoods of east Texas near the states of Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. Address to get here: 580 Crestwood Lp. Avinger, TX 75657 Recreation Boating, fishing, water sports, and wildlife viewing are all popular pastimes at the campground. Hunting opportunities for white-tailed deer, waterfowl, and small game are available on nearby public lands. Lake O' the Pines fishing includes largemouth, spotted, and white bass along with crappie, catfish, and sunfish. In addition to boat fishing there are areas for bank fishing along the shore and below the dam along Big Cypress Bayou. Birdwatchers are also encouraged to bring their binoculars as numerous resident and migratory bird species inhabit the area. Bald eagle sightings are a common occurrence in fall and winter and they are occasionally sighted in spring and summer. best waterfowl hunting in East Texas.Facilities Johnson Creek offers a large group picnic shelter, complete with electric hookups, that can accommodate up to 100 guests. A boat ramp, courtesy dock, fishing dock, volleyball court, and swimming beach are also provided, making the area perfect for large parties or family functions.Natural Features Lake O' the Pines includes about 18,700 acres of water and 9,000 acres of land. The Johnson Creek Day Use Area is located near the confluence of Johnson Creek and Lake O' the Pines. The lake was created by the construction of the Ferrell's Bridge Dam on the Big Cypress Bayou. The reservoir was originally created as part of the overall plan for flood control in the Red River Basin below Denison Dam in Oklahoma, and has now become a recreational oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. Nearby Attractions Other historic and tourist attractions are nearby in the towns of Jefferson and Marshall, and Texas Wildflower Trail routes are located along the roads surrounding the lake.
How to Get There
From Jefferson, Texas, travel 3.8 miles northwest on Highway 49. Turn left onto FM 729 and continue for just over 8.5 miles. Park entrance will be on the left.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
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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 JOHNSON CREEK DAY USE
Heading to JOHNSON CREEK DAY USE? 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 JOHNSON CREEK DAY USE?
No central reservation system listed for JOHNSON CREEK DAY USE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233316) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to JOHNSON CREEK DAY USE?
From Jefferson, Texas, travel 3.8 miles northwest on Highway 49. Turn left onto FM 729 and continue for just over 8.5 miles. Park entrance will be on the left.
How do I contact JOHNSON CREEK DAY USE?
You can reach the park at phone: 903-665-2336.
References & Official Resources
