Best Campgrounds near Mesquite, TX
Camping options around Mesquite, Texas include several established campgrounds with varied accommodations within a short drive. Cedar Hill State Park Campground offers tent, RV, and cabin camping with boat-in and walk-in access approximately 20 miles southwest of Mesquite. The eastern side of the Dallas metropolitan area features lakeside camping at East Fork Park on Lake Lavon and Lavonia, which provide electric hookups and water connections for both tent and RV camping, typically within 30-45 minutes of Mesquite.
Road conditions and site maintenance vary significantly across campgrounds in the region. "I found this park to be maintained poorly. The sites are close together with little shade and are all in a big, level circle with limited to no view of the lake itself," noted one camper about East Fork Park. While some lakeside campgrounds feature paved RV pads, several reviews mention deteriorating asphalt and uneven sites that require leveling blocks. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though summer heat can be intense with limited shade at many locations. Reservation requirements are standard at most developed campgrounds, with gates that typically lock at night, restricting late entry between 10 PM and 6 AM at some parks.
Water access represents a major draw for campers in the area, with multiple campgrounds situated along Lake Lavon and Lewisville Lake. Several visitors highlighted lake views and boating access as key highlights, though waterfront platforms at some locations have fallen into disrepair. Bathroom and shower facilities receive mixed reviews, with some campgrounds like Plantation Place lacking these amenities entirely. Campers consistently mention spacious sites at Corps of Engineers (COE) campgrounds, though grass maintenance issues appear in multiple reviews. For those seeking full hookups, several RV parks provide sewer, water, and 50-amp electrical connections, while tent campers may find more limited designated areas at some locations. Cell service is generally strong throughout the region, with most campgrounds reporting good coverage for remote work or communications.