Best Campgrounds near Arlington, TX
The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex surrounding Arlington, Texas features a mix of urban-adjacent camping options within a 30-minute drive. Cedar Hill State Park, located about 20 miles southeast of Arlington on Joe Pool Lake, offers over 300 wooded campsites including both developed RV sites with hookups and primitive hike-in tent camping areas. Treetops RV Resort in Arlington provides full-service RV camping with shade trees and urban amenities, while Loyd Park in Grand Prairie accommodates tent campers, RVers, and those seeking cabin rentals. Most campgrounds in the region are situated around lakes, providing water recreation opportunities despite the urban setting.
Reservations are essential at most campgrounds near Arlington, particularly during spring and fall when milder temperatures attract the most visitors. Summer heat regularly exceeds 95°F from June through September, making shade a critical consideration when selecting sites. As one camper noted, "The location feels secluded from the city but close to the highway so you can be in the city within a few minutes drive." Many campgrounds experience ambient noise from nearby highways and the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. Cell service is generally strong throughout the area, with most campgrounds reporting good connectivity for remote work. Texas State Parks require either a $7 daily entrance fee per person or an annual Texas State Parks Pass ($70), which adds to overall camping costs.
Lakeside sites consistently receive the highest ratings from visitors, with many campers highlighting the contrast between urban proximity and natural settings. Cedar Hill State Park offers what one reviewer called "private and shaded" sites despite being minutes from Dallas, with over 1,200 acres of mountain bike terrain and swimming areas. Hickory Creek on Lewisville Lake provides what campers describe as "a feel of isolation" despite suburban surroundings. Wildlife sightings, particularly deer, are commonly reported even at campgrounds close to the city. Visitors frequently mention the convenience of nearby shopping and restaurants as a significant advantage. Several campgrounds experience issues with ants, particularly during warmer months, and occasional flooding can affect site availability around lake areas.
