Camping near Princeton, Texas spans across a series of small, managed campgrounds with varying terrain that transitions from grassy, open areas to small woodlots. The area sits at approximately 550 feet above sea level with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F in July and August. Princeton-area campsites often feature compacted gravel pads with limited natural shade, requiring campers to bring additional shade structures during peak summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At East Fork Park Campground, anglers can access Lake Lavon directly from multiple points. "The location is nice on the lake with lots of sail boats sailing by," notes Mia D., who found the waterfront access convenient despite some infrastructure issues.
Mountain biking trails: Erwin Park in nearby McKinney offers approximately 9 miles of dedicated trails maintained by DORBA (Dallas Off Road Bicycle Association). As James from TrueZoneCoaching explains, "The trail network is about 9 miles and maintained by DORBA, these trails flood easily after rain so check the DORBA website before making the trip. The trails are straight forward and not super technical."
Swimming access: Several Lake Lavon access points permit swimming in designated areas, though facilities vary significantly. At COE Lavon Lake Lavonia, campers note the lake access makes up for other shortcomings. Brian shares, "Nothing to knock you socks off, but it's a great campsite close to home and nice for a quick getaway. Has the feel of being somewhat remote since it's out by the lake."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer opportunities to spot local wildlife around Lake Lavon campgrounds. "The only sound other than bird song is the occasional moo and some coyote yips in the distance," remarks Riley W. about camping experiences at Erwin Park.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: East Fork Park Campground offers larger-than-average sites with good separation. Ray & Terri F. note, "The sites are well spaced and are 'mostly' paved with aging asphalt... Overall, this is a good value, and one of the few non-RV park options in the greater Dallas area."
Clean facilities: While amenities vary widely between campgrounds, several campers highlight bathroom cleanliness as a major plus. At Clear Lake Park, Sammie F. reports, "Nice quiet park. Bathrooms are very clean."
Lake views: Many sites provide direct lake views that campers consistently praise. Jess W. comments about COE Lavon Lake Lavonia: "Wide open spaces and beautiful lake views. The sites are far apart and lots of green space. Pavement is old and a little rough, but workable."
Quick weekend access: The Princeton area's proximity to Dallas makes it popular for shorter trips. "The location of this campground feels secluded from the city but close to the highway so you can be in the city within a few minutes drive," mentions one visitor about the convenience factor.
What you should know
Grass maintenance issues: Several Lake Lavon campgrounds struggle with regular lawn care. "Great campground, electric and water. Only issue is the grass is always one high so bring a weed whip," explains Suzann E. about East Fork Park, with Jenny S. adding, "Nothing like taking a nice shower and then having to walk back to your campsite in 2 feet of grass and get bit up by all the bugs in the grass!"
Road conditions: Alvin Lafon's RV Parks and others feature gravel roads that can create noise and accessibility challenges. According to one camper, "Park has heavy gravel for roads (noisy and not good for walking dogs)." Similarly, at East Fork Park, visitors frequently mention pothole issues on interior roads.
Varying site quality: Campsite conditions vary dramatically between and within campgrounds. Melanie and Doug G. observed at East Fork Park, "The pad has definitely broken up over time and isn't level. The fire pit is also sitting at an angle."
Gate restrictions: Some campgrounds implement strict gate closure policies. At Lavon Lake Lavonia, Natalie S. notes, "Only drawbacks are unlevel sites and front gates don't open til 10am every morning so can't get back in if you go get breakfast."
Tips for camping with families
Tent site selection: At Lavonia, tent sites require careful selection. Veronica S. advises, "Each of those sites have water, electricity, and a sewer connection, with a covered cement pad with a grill, a table, and other relevant features. The few tent camp sites were shoved seemingly randomly between and around the RV sites."
Swimming preparation: Lake swimming areas lack lifeguards and have natural lake bottoms. "There was a nice swim area and overall the campground was clean and quiet," says Christina H. about East Fork Park Campground, though she recommends water shoes and close supervision for younger swimmers.
Activity planning: Many campgrounds offer limited organized activities. Amy L. notes about Erwin Park, "What a great getaway that feels like you're far from home but only a few min away for us. When you want a spur of the moment trip it's a great place to go."
Shade considerations: Most Princeton-area campgrounds feature limited natural shade. Christina H. warns, "There weren't a whole lot of trees and none over the RV pads, so keep that in mind as far as the sun beating down on the camper."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Multiple reviews mention unlevel sites at Lake Lavon campgrounds. At Lavonia, Natalie S. reports, "Great food places nearby. Only drawbacks are unlevel sites and front gates don't open til 10am every morning."
Space limitations: Some parks have tight turning radiuses that challenge larger rigs. At The Waters, Rachel H. cautions, "While our almost 40' Class A fit on the pad, if we had anything larger than our Jeep Wrangler as a tow would not have fit in our spot. Really meant for 30' if you have a pickup truck to tow."
Hookup positions: RVers should prepare with extension cords and hoses. "I backed in and used my extension power cord because the box was located midway from the rear," notes Gary W. about East Fork Park, adding, "Any size rig will have plenty of room. It was quiet, had lots of space to walk the dog, the sites are spread out."
Monthly stay options: For longer-term visitors, several parks offer monthly rates. At The Waters, Rachel reports, "This used to be under another name, but is under new management. The park is now under construction, with a laundry building coming soon. 30 spots."
