Bardwell Lake camping areas span 6,350 acres of Corps of Engineers land in Ellis County, Texas. Located 45 miles south of Dallas, the area maintains a temperate climate suitable for year-round camping with average summer temperatures reaching 95°F. Bardwell Lake itself reaches depths of 45 feet with approximately 770 acres designated for wildlife management.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Mott Park features access to Bardwell Lake's fishing areas. "Mott park is a fantastic campground for lake activities! At the time of my visit the facilities were clean. The park was well cared for and the sites were all pretty good," notes Dude R.
Swimming access: Water activities are popular during warmer months at lake beaches. "Very clean.well kept.mowed.very family oriented..nice camp grounds.everything you need.right there..swimming area real nice," explains Elizabeth C. about Highview Park.
Kayaking and hiking: Multiple access points allow for water sports and trail exploration. "Best fishing.kayaking," states Elizabeth C. about the recreation options at Waxahachie Creek Park.
Scenic relaxation: The Range Vintage Trailer Resort provides more upscale relaxation opportunities. One camper noted: "The Range is nothing like other campgrounds. The owners went all out in developing the property to provide an incredible experience for their guests...there are hiking trails all around the property."
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many dog-friendly campgrounds at Bardwell Lake offer peaceful settings. "Peace and quiet. Friendly staff at check-in. We stayed in campsite 29 which is kind of elevated a bit and we had a great view of the lake... Local sheriff's dept and park ranger made several trips through the park which made it feel secure," writes Derrick A. about High View.
Lake views: Waterfront sites provide direct lake access. "Good experience. Near Ennis, TX. Convenience stores, etc 4-6 miles away. Covered picnic table. Large combined family (private) restroom / shower... Campsite # 25 faces Lake Bardwell," shares David S.
Security measures: Regular patrols create a safe environment. "The park is designed with small loops for 15-20 camp sites in each loop. Very little traffic right by the individual spots. Easy in and out of park," notes Michael C. about Cedar Hill State Park Campground.
Affordability: Reasonable fees make camping accessible. "I enjoyed the rain and the view it was very relaxing and I appreciated a shower as well as powering all my extras before heading on the road to Minnesota. $14 for the space very appreciate," writes Wahine K. about staying at Mott Park.
What you should know
Arrival time restrictions: Some campgrounds enforce strict gate closing policies. "If you're looking for a late night stop, this isn't it. Gates lock at 10 pm. We couldn't get in," warns Reagan K. about Highview Park.
Limited shade: Several campground areas lack tree cover. "Great views, clean sites, however there's very limited shade," mentions Drew about Highview Park.
Wildlife concerns: Waxahachie Creek Park presents natural hazards to watch for with pets. "There was poison ivy on the trees next to us and in the mowed ground around the campsite. There were so many butterflies, flies, and other flying insects on the sunny side of our RV that it made entering and exiting through the sliding door very difficult," reports Jeanette W.
Facility maintenance: Bathroom and shower conditions vary between dog-friendly campgrounds at Bardwell Lake. "We stayed in site 40 on our way south. The site was large and right by the water. The bathroom in that little loop had been destroyed by vandals, but there was a really nice one the next loop over," notes Julie B.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Multiple campgrounds provide child-friendly spaces. "Marina was closed and several lots needed mowing but beauty of lake made up for it. Great swimming area with beach area and large children play area. Would definitely come back here," states Karen A. about Liberty Hill Park.
Site selection: Choose locations that offer both convenience and recreation. "Our site had power and electric only, but I believe some sites also have sewer. We had a great view over the lake, although no water access," explains Randy H.
Shower facilities: Family-friendly bathrooms are available at select locations. "Very clean with four bathroom/shower rooms and laundry room as well. We visited in November and it was quiet with a nice view of the water," reports Iris A. about Northside RV Resort.
Safety considerations: Structured campgrounds provide security for children. "The park sits right on the outskirts of the town of Corsicana. Very close to Navarro College," notes Jennifer B., highlighting the proximity to emergency services at American RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Parking and access: Consider site angles when selecting RV spots. "Our site (532) was a little awkward to get in because of the corner and the speed bumps, but not impossible," notes Angela R. about Northside RV Resort.
Road conditions: Interior campground roads may present challenges. "The roads inside the campground need to be repaved," warns Jeanette W. about conditions at dog-friendly Waxahachie Creek Park.
Hookup quality: Most dog-friendly campgrounds at Bardwell Lake offer reliable services. "Nice pull through sites. Only stayed one night. Staff were pleasant, check in was fast and easy. Hook-ups are in good condition. Site is concrete," reports Russ G.
Spacing considerations: Site size varies between campgrounds. "We stayed here in November so didn't have any bug problems. It is a new park and very well laid out. The sites are large and easy to pull in and out," shares Marilea G.
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