Tent campsites near Benbrook Lake offer a mix of waterfront locations and wooded settings throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth region. The area features limestone outcroppings and post oak woodlands typical of North Texas terrain, with elevations ranging from 650 to 800 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F between June and September, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons for most visitors.
What to do
Bouldering and rock climbing: Penitentiary Hollow at Lake Mineral Wells State Park Primitive Area provides unique climbing opportunities rare in North Texas. Climbers can practice both repelling and bouldering techniques. "Very unique rock climbing area. Fun to watch the climbers go up and down," notes Emily M. in her review.
Kayaking and paddling: Cedar Creek on Lake Whitney offers clean waters ideal for paddling. "The lake is a super clean rock bottom one," reports Zoey T. about Cedar Creek Park Campground. For more advanced paddlers, Lake Mineral Wells features small inlets to explore. "You can spend your day on the water, swimming on the beach, fishing from a pier or exploring the shoreline by kayak," says Jamey W.
Wildlife viewing: The open grasslands provide excellent wildlife observation opportunities, especially at dusk. "There were many deer in the area all night," reports Jason about De Cordova Bend Park. Early morning hours typically offer the best birdwatching, with scissor-tailed flycatchers nesting in some locations during summer months.
What campers like
Natural spacing between sites: The dispersed camping areas at Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland provide ample distance between campers. "Sites are spacious and we soon found a pretty great vista view from which the spectacular sunset was just a great bonus," writes Michele A. This allows for greater privacy compared to developed campgrounds.
Uncrowded weekday options: Several parks in the region remain relatively empty mid-week, even during peak season. "This is a mid week haven. The park is busy with boating, swimming, fishing, and day use traffic but only 3 or 4 campsites are occupied with tents or RV," Sean B. noted about De Cordova Bend.
Hammocking opportunities: The mature trees at many tent sites provide ideal hammock setup locations. "I hung my hammock right over a bluff for a spectacular view," writes Alan H. about his stay at Lake Mineral Wells. At Sycamore Bend Park, Hannah F. notes it's "Really nice for hammocking, kayaking, paddle boarding etc."
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary significantly: Facilities range from well-maintained to basic throughout the area. "The restrooms really stink, but are always clean and stocked in my experience," reports Taylin B. about Sycamore Bend Park. At Cedar Creek Park Campground, facilities are limited to vault toilets with no showers available.
Weather considerations: Summer heat demands proper preparation with shade structures at exposed sites. "Lots of sun and just a little shade, arrive early for a treed spot or bring shade awnings," advises Sean B. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F, making spring and fall more comfortable for tent camping.
Reservation requirements differ: Meadowmere Park & Campground requires reservations and has specific check-in procedures. "Management made it easy for us to enter the gate upon our late arrival," mentions Melanie G. Other locations like Cedar Creek Park operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Several parks provide family-friendly amenities beyond just campsites. "The park has a good pavilion with a basketball hoop and good playground equipment," notes Chris K. about Sycamore Bend Park, making it suitable for families with children needing activity options.
Scout-friendly locations: Families should be aware that some campgrounds regularly host youth groups. Sycamore Bend Park is "very popular with the boy and cub scout troops in the North Dallas Metroplex area. So if you looking for a nice quiet place to commune with nature this may not be your cup of tea," advises Chris K.
Accessibility concerns: Some primitive sites require significant hiking with gear. At Little Elm Park, tent sites with electric hookups cost just $5, making them convenient for families wanting easier access. "Electric hookups for RV generally a small area first come first serve.... 5 dollars per tent....restrooms and park lights.... stores nearby," reports Joshua O.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions for larger vehicles: Forest service roads leading to dispersed camping areas can be challenging after rain. "I would NOT recommend taking any kind of trailer or motorhome down these roads and to this spot," cautions Michelle T. about the Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland. Smaller rigs with appropriate clearance navigate these roads better than large RVs.
Urban-adjacent options: For RVers needing proximity to Dallas amenities, Cedar Ridge Mobile Home & RV Park provides a solid option. "Easy to find, quick booking, good view," notes Mark B., adding that 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."
Seasonal crowd patterns: Summer weekends see the highest occupancy at most campgrounds, while weekdays remain relatively uncrowded. "Been told by a local, off season is best as July and August are typically overful," mentions Sean B. about De Cordova Bend Park, suggesting spring and fall visits for those seeking more solitude.
