Tent camping options around Bardwell Lake, Texas include several established sites within a 30-mile radius. The lake sits at approximately 421 feet above sea level with a shoreline of 51 miles, providing campers with multiple water access points. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing access: Cedar Creek Park Campground offers direct lake access with good shorelines for bank fishing. One camper notes, "We love this spot... there are campsites to your right and left once you reach the water... the lake is a super clean rock bottom one."
Boating activities: Cedar Creek Park Campground provides boat ramp and dock facilities for water sports and lake exploration. The park features "a large shelter house with BBQ for days use by larger groups," according to reviewer Sean B.
Shopping nearby: When staying at Cedar Ridge Mobile Home & RV Park, campers can access outdoor equipment stores if supplies run low. One visitor mentioned, "it's located pretty close to a bunch of outdoor sports stores... so if you forgot something on your trip, it's pretty easy to pick up."
What campers like
Natural shade coverage: Cedar Creek Park Campground features mature oak trees that provide relief from the Texas sun. Sean B. observed, "big open fields and mature oak tree shade," creating diverse camping environments.
Site spacing and privacy: Campsites at Cedar Creek are well-separated, creating a more private tent camping experience. As Zoey T. noted, sites are "quiet, spaced out," which enhances the peaceful atmosphere for Bardwell Lake area campers.
Clean shorelines: Bella Hampton Farm Foundation provides access to water recreation with minimal shoreline debris. The foundation maintains 10 tent sites with drive-in or walk-in access, making it suitable for campers seeking a rustic experience near Bardwell Lake.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have confusing access roads. For Cedar Creek, one visitor advises, "Definitely ignore google to get here though... just follow the road to the end (no turning off)."
Limited facilities: Many campgrounds near Bardwell Lake offer minimal amenities. Cedar Creek provides "water at most and fire rings... next to covered picnic tables" but has "no showers and only a vault toilet," according to reviews.
Site availability system: Cedar Creek operates on a "first come first served" basis according to Sean B., which requires planning ahead during peak seasons around Bardwell Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly grounds: Camp Meisenbach offers drive-in tent sites with grounds suitable for children. While amenities are limited, its location provides families an alternative option for tent camping near Bardwell Lake.
Clean tent pads: Cedar Creek Park receives positive reviews for site maintenance. One camper mentioned, "You don't have to worry about dirt and glass on the ground. If you want a relaxed fun weekend with friends and family, this is the place to go."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe local wildlife at several campgrounds. Sean B. reported Cedar Creek is "quiet, lots of wildlife," providing educational opportunities for young campers.
Tips from RVers
Tent-only areas: Many RV parks near Bardwell Lake have designated tent camping sections. Cedar Ridge Mobile Home & RV Park requires "hike-in" or "walk-in" access for tent campers, separating them from the RV areas.
Shower access: When tent camping near Bardwell Lake, Cedar Ridge Mobile Home & RV Park offers shower facilities that tent-only campgrounds may lack. Mark B. rated his experience 5 stars, noting it was a "solid option if you're near Dallas" with "easy to find, quick booking, good view" amenities.
Site counts: Cedar Creek Park has approximately "27 of them [campsites]" according to Zoey T., which helps tent campers understand the size and scope of the grounds when planning visits to the Bardwell Lake region.
