Camping sites near Bardwell, Texas center around Bardwell Lake, created by damming Waxahachie Creek in 1965. The lake spans 3,570 acres with elevation ranging from 421-431 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in this area remain accessible year-round, though seasonal lake level fluctuations can affect site availability, particularly at lower elevations during spring rains.
What to do
Fishing from shore or dock: Waxahachie Creek Park offers prime fishing spots along Bardwell Lake. "Best fishing.kayaking," notes Elizabeth C., highlighting the park's appeal to anglers.
Kayaking on calm waters: The protected coves around Highview Park provide excellent paddling opportunities. "Very clean.well kept.mowed.very family oriented..nice camp grounds.everything you need.right there..swimming area real nice," according to Elizabeth C.
Swimming at designated beaches: Several campgrounds maintain swimming areas during summer months. At High View, one camper mentions, "We stayed for a night in site 40 on our way south. The site was large and right by the water."
Hiking nearby trails: Walk the shoreline paths at Liberty Hill Park where campers enjoy "plenty of good roads to walk. Very peaceful!" according to Jeanette H.
What campers like
Spacious sites with views: COE Bardwell Lake Mott Park gets high marks for its lakefront camping spots. One visitor appreciated "its spacious sites and gorgeous views of Bardwell Lake. Our site #29 was nice and shady and panoramic view of lake."
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower houses at Liberty Hill Park Campground receive positive mentions. "Extremely clean grounds and super friendly staff. Allows pets (on leash of course)," notes Randy H.
Peaceful atmosphere: The relative quiet draws many campers. At Mott Park, Wahine K. shared, "The view, electricity, water, and showers was very nice at such an affordable price."
Affordability: Most Corps of Engineers campgrounds maintain reasonable rates ($14-18/night for most sites). "Affordable" appears frequently in reviews, with Elizabeth C. noting the area's campgrounds are "very clean.cheap..well mowed."
What you should know
Gate closure times: Several campgrounds enforce strict entry hours. "When we arrived at 11pm the gates were locked with no one in site," reported ShaneB at Highview, adding there was "Not a single word about late arrivals at the gate."
Fluctuating lake levels: Water levels can change rapidly during storm seasons. Mott Park visitors should monitor weather forecasts as sites near the shoreline may flood.
Limited shade at some sites: Many campgrounds feature open layouts with minimal tree cover. Drew at Highview Park noted, "Great views, clean sites, however there's very limited shade."
Insect management: Ants can be problematic, particularly at American RV Park. At nearby Liberty Hill, one camper warned about "a serious issue with the invasive Argentian ant."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds provide play areas for children. Liberty Hill Park offers "a large children play area" according to Karen A., who noted the "great swimming area with beach area."
Safety considerations: Security patrols help maintain a family-friendly environment. At High View, Derrick A. appreciated that "Local sheriff's dept and park ranger made several trips through the park which made it feel secure."
Private bathrooms: Northside RV Resort offers individual bathroom units. Angela R. noted, "Each shower has its own toilet and vanity behind a lockable door."
Swimming areas: Designated swimming zones provide safer water recreation. Elizabeth C. describes Mott Park as having a "Clean lake.no broken glass.mowed grass" that's "very family oriented."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Some campgrounds require additional work to level RVs. Liberty Hill Park campers mention the "turns are extremely tight" with Michael C. adding "I do not recommend people with motorhome over 40 feet come here."
Hookup quality: Water pressure varies between campgrounds. William N. at American RV Park found "Our site was level and had some shade. Spacing between sites was fine."
Gate code access: Most campgrounds use security gates requiring codes. Iris A. appreciated that Northside RV Resort "has a gate with a code needed to enter."
Site selection for big rigs: For larger RVs, pull-through sites at American RV Park offer easier access. Lawrence P. noted "Great pull thru site. Plenty of room to leave hooked up."
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