Belton Lake offers 136 miles of shoreline with camping areas located along seven major parks managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Water levels can fluctuate seasonally, with spring bringing higher levels and more shoreline access points submerged. Central Texas temperatures average 96°F in summer months, making waterfront campsites particularly valuable for cooling lake breezes.
What to do
Hiking with wildlife viewing: Cedar Ridge Park provides multiple trails where campers can spot abundant wildlife. "We saw lots of deer and birds. We will definitely return!" notes Stephanie A. about her experience at Cedar Ridge (TX).
Mountain biking trails: Dana Peak features extensive trail systems for cyclists of all skill levels. "The park has many miles of mountain bike and hiking trails," reports Laura F., who appreciates the Dana Peak trail network that connects camping areas with lakeside routes.
Fishing from campsite: Several waterfront sites allow fishing directly from your camping spot. "Our site was right on the water allowing us to fish from our spot," explains Jeff H. about Cedar Ridge Park, noting that the park has "no frills" but offers "amazing sunset and sunrise views."
Boat access: Most lakeside campgrounds provide boat launch facilities. "There is a boat launch," confirms Lisa H. from her stay at Live Oak Ridge, making it convenient for campers bringing watercraft.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention the generous spacing between sites. "The campsites are well maintained with asphalt parking, a covered picnic table, and nice gravel area," says Lisa H. about her stay at Live Oak Ridge, noting that sites are "shaded and spacious."
Clean facilities: Park maintenance receives high marks from reviewers. "The restroom area is also clean and has showers and toilets," reports Cheryl D. at Live Oak Ridge, adding that the hosts "are not obtrusive and just keep a low profile to ensure things are clean."
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds offer regular wildlife sightings near sites. "Lots of deer in camp and we saw a turkey," writes Dean H. about his stay at Cedar Ridge Park, mentioning specific site numbers that offer prime wildlife viewing.
Morning lake views: Waterfront sites provide exceptional sunrise viewing. "We loved the view and the shade," shares Stephanie A. about Cedar Ridge, mentioning that her family stayed in spot #62 which offered both lake views and shade.
What you should know
Gate closing times: Security measures include gates that lock overnight. "It is a gated entrance and the gates locked at 11:00pm," cautions a reviewer at Live Oak Ridge, important information for campers planning late arrivals or departures.
Wind exposure: Lakeside sites may experience strong winds in certain seasons. "The only draw back was the winds, they were so strong they shattered our tent poles," warns Janese W. about Dana Peak, suggesting campers "definitely check the weather before selecting a date."
Limited shade at some parks: Several campgrounds have minimal tree cover. "All of the sites are directly on the water. The lake is beautiful and there are usually very few people there," notes Marci W. about Dana Peak, but the lack of shade makes summer camping challenging without preparation.
Seasonal closures: Some parks operate on limited schedules. "They are only open from March 2nd to September 30th for the year of 2022," clarifies Joel K. regarding Dana Peak, information that changes annually but requires verification.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer playground facilities for children. "We road bicycles, played on the playground. Hiked around and fished," shares Cathy C. about her family-friendly experience at Cedar Ridge Park.
Swimming preparations: Lake access points vary by campground. "The water is crystal clear, so we just went down and hopped in the water when it got to hot," recommends Sheila C. about her July stay at Union Grove, suggesting bringing shade cloth to attach to picnic tables during hot days.
Sand burrs awareness: Families with pets or young children should be cautious of vegetation. "Beware if you have long haired furry friends there are a TON of sand burrs and you'll spend quite a bit of time picking them out," advises SJ L. about Westcliff campground, noting this occurs "even if they barely touch grass."
Educational opportunities: Mother Neff State Park offers historical learning experiences. "What a great park full of history!" notes Brittany S., mentioning the cave used by the Tonkawa tribe in the 1800s that children can explore.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most RV sites feature concrete pads that require minimal leveling. "Sites 40, 41" at Live Oak Ridge are recommended by Dean H. for "lots of shade," while noting the campground is "very clean."
Hookup limitations: Water and electric connections are standard, but sewer hookups vary by campground. "Has 30 & 50 amp hookups with water does not have sewer hookups at sites but does have dump station close by," clarifies Cody D. about Mother Neff State Park Campground.
Big rig accessibility: Several parks accommodate larger RVs with spacious pull-through sites. "Our site was a pull through. Asphalt with grass all around," reports Michael C. about Union Grove, noting the park sits directly on the lake but has "limited lake access due to the craggy nature of the shore line."
Loop road navigation: One-way traffic patterns affect access to facilities. "The roads are one way, so it's a hike to the dumpster," mentions Michael C. about Union Grove, information particularly relevant for RVers planning longer stays.
