Camping spots near Mesquite, Texas offer diverse options within a 20 to 45 minute drive. The region sits at approximately 450 feet above sea level with average summer temperatures reaching 95°F between June and September. Winter camping remains viable with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 50-65°F, though occasional cold fronts can bring freezing conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Lavon provides accessible fishing without needing a boat. At Lavonia Park, campers can enjoy lakeside fishing with convenient access points. "Wide open spaces and beautiful lake views. The sites are far apart and lots of green space," notes one visitor at Lavonia.
Biking and hiking: Cedar Hill State Park features interconnected trails suitable for various skill levels. "The park is designed with small loops for 15-20 camp sites in each loop. Very little traffic right by the individual spots," writes a reviewer about the park layout that makes it ideal for bike exploration.
Boating and water access: Hickory Creek offers direct lake access ideal for kayaking and boating enthusiasts. "There are many sites that you can stay at and have a lakeside campground," explains one review. Another camper mentions, "The primitive locations offer a great way to dip your toes into the world of backpacking."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: The Corps of Engineers campgrounds receive consistent praise for site spacing. "Plenty of space between sites. Not many trees in some site for shade," notes a reviewer at East Fork Park, demonstrating that even with limited tree cover, the distance between campsites provides a sense of privacy.
Lake views: Loyd Park offers premium lakeside camping with scenic vistas. "Our site was only a hundred feet from the lake - gorgeous view!" shares one camper. The park features "great bike trails, friendly staff and lovely sites, each pretty secluded from each other," according to another visitor.
Clean facilities: Many parks maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. "Very clean and picturesque park, would come back for sure," states a Cedar Hill State Park visitor. Another camper at the same location mentions, "I love camping at cedar Hill State Park it's always clean quiet the customer service you received is very good restrooms are always neat and clean."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer heat requires preparation with limited shade at many campgrounds. At East Fork Park, one camper notes that "there are trees - some large enough to provide some shade if desired, but most small enough to allow satellite reception."
Unlevel sites: Several campgrounds feature aging infrastructure requiring leveling equipment. At East Fork Park Campground, a visitor observed "the pad has definitely broken up over time and isn't level. The fire pit is also sitting at an angle."
Wildlife encounters: Insect preparation is essential during warmer months. Cedar Hill campers have experienced "fire ants and chiggers all over our campsite," while noting that "the lake was nice" despite these challenges.
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds with traffic sounds. "The location is tucked away in the small lakeside town of Hickory Creek...which is surrounded by Denton to the north and Lewisville/Dallas to the south. Even though it's in a highly populated area, it feels very remote when you get into the park," reports one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Plantation Place offers dedicated dog parks and open areas for children. "Has a nice pond and pet friendly," notes one visitor, providing spaces for both kids and pets to enjoy outdoor time.
Swimming opportunities: Several parks feature designated swimming areas with beach access. At Loyd Park, "They have a big beach, park area to enjoy," mentions a reviewer, making it ideal for families with children who want water activities.
Educational opportunities: Cedar Hill State Park provides nature programs on weekends during peak season. "Good representation of Texas wildlife and a good spot for family camping," explains one visitor about the educational value of the park.
Kid-friendly sites: Look for sites away from water for younger children. "We hopped over for a one night trip and had a blast! Our site was right off the water with a fun view at night of the Lake Lewisville bridge. Sites were large enough for us (tent campers) without feeling too close to our rv/camper neighbors!" shares a Hickory Creek camper.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Bluebonnet Ridge RV Park offers full-service sites with complete hookups. "Have about 10 concrete pads, the rest are level gravel. Blacktop roads, tennis/pickle ball court, small fishing lake, laundry, pool and tiny houses," writes one visitor describing the extensive amenities.
Site selection: Request sites away from highway noise when possible. "The park is very quiet while we were there. No ruckus or loud people. Folks walked around, talked a bit," notes one camper at Bluebonnet Ridge about the peaceful atmosphere.
Dump station logistics: Some parks require using central dump stations rather than in-site sewer connections. "The only 'negative' I found is that the sewage hook up is not at the actual site. There are dump stations in different places," explains a Hickory Creek visitor, highlighting an important consideration for RVers planning longer stays.
Extended stay options: Several parks accommodate longer-term camping with monthly rates. "We spent an entire month, as we typically do, in Bluebonnet Ridge RV Park in Terrell, Texas. There is a lot to really like about this campground," shares one RVer, noting the park's suitability for extended visits.
