Cabin and yurt camping near Allen, Texas provides access to several lakeside destinations within a 35-mile radius. Located in the blackland prairie region with elevations ranging from 500-700 feet, this area experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 95°F and mild winters. Most accommodations remain open year-round, though reservations become essential during summer weekends when temperatures peak.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Ray Roberts Lake State Park offers both bank and dock fishing with catfish being a popular catch. "My boys caught a 12 lb and 20 lb catfish right off the fishing dock," reports one visitor to The Vineyards, showing the potential for significant catches in local waters.
Water recreation: Kayaking and boating options exist at multiple locations, with many campsites providing direct lake access. "Great fishing, kayaking, play ground, and swim area. Very well kept up," notes a camper at The Vineyards Campground & Cabins.
Hiking trails: Several parks offer walking paths ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. At Johnson Branch Campsites, visitors can access "lots of hiking trails" according to one reviewer who adds that "Fall is wonderful at both Johnson ranch and Isle Du Bois."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room between accommodations. "Wide open spaces and beautiful lake views. The sites are far apart and lots of green space," mentions a visitor at Lavon Lake Lavonia.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses and shower facilities rank highly in visitor satisfaction. At Loyd Park, each bathroom features "a sink, a toilet, a hand dryer, and a shower with two nozzles at different heights (tall and short). The appliances were stainless steel, and the bathrooms were clearly excellently maintained."
Security features: Gated access after hours provides peace of mind at several locations. "Great security visible as well as a coded gate after hours," notes a visitor at The Vineyards, while another camper at Northside RV Resort appreciates that "the park also has a gate with a code needed to enter."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat impacts comfort levels at exposed sites. "Bring a canopy or tarp; there isn't much cover here. But at night, the temperature was quite comfortable, albeit windy," advises a Johnson Branch camper.
Road noise: Some locations experience highway noise that might disturb light sleepers. "You're really close to I-20, you will hear the road noise. Only trucks are loud," warns a visitor at Bluebonnet Ridge RV Park.
Tent camping limitations: Not all sites accommodate tent camping despite listings suggesting otherwise. "It shows as tents but no," notes one visitor to The Vineyards, while another camper at Lavon Lake states that facilities are "clearly geared towards RVers... The few tent camp sites were shoved seemingly randomly between and around the RV sites."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature play areas for children that provide activity options. At The Vineyards, one family found "an amazing playground for our kids, a beach, golf cart rentals, cabins, and you can easily pull in a giant RV. I highly recommend this campground."
Swimming areas: Designated swim beaches offer safe water entry points. At Eisenhower State Park, "swimming area and trails along the cliffs are exquisite," according to a visitor who appreciated these family-friendly features.
Open spaces: Areas for children to play between campsites and water features add value for families. "I really enjoyed how well kept the grounds were and did love the open space between sites and the water, giving lots of space for the kids to play," shares a camper at Pilot Knoll Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some locations. "Our site was very unlevel on the hill, so bring your chocks," advises a Lavon Lake visitor who experienced challenges with positioning their RV.
Reservation timing: Booking well in advance is essential, especially for yurt camping near Allen, Texas during peak seasons. "This is very popular RV Resort near Terrell, Tx. Do your reservation early or you may not get in!" warns a visitor to Bluebonnet Ridge RV Park.
Hookup availability: Facilities vary significantly between parks and specific sites. At Loyd Park, "sites are paved, several are lake front, and the majority of them are well shaded... Several spots with water and electricity," notes a regular visitor who appreciates these amenities.
