The Bluff Dale area of Texas sits in the Cross Timbers region at approximately 1,000 feet elevation, where prairie meets woodlands. This transitional landscape creates diverse camping environments within a short drive of Bluff Dale's small community center. Water levels at riverside camping areas can fluctuate dramatically with rainfall, particularly in spring when the Paluxy River basin receives much of its annual precipitation.
What to do
Dinosaur tracks exploration: At Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground, visitors can see preserved dinosaur footprints in the riverbed. "This place is awesome. One of the best natural swimming holes I've found near DFW. There are dinosaur fossils everywhere. hiking is great, and even on a hot summer day you can go swim in the river or the blue hole," explains Julie W.
Riverside wading: The shallow sections of the Paluxy River provide excellent spots for cooling off. "It was a great, centrally located park. Dinosaur World is literally across the street (easily walkable) and Dinosaur Valley State Park is an easy drive. We loved the location of our spot = EASY access to the river (path was directly across from 411) and it was great for hanging out in the water," notes Tiffany H. at Dinosaur Valley RV Park.
Fishing excursions: Several parks offer fishing access without requiring a long hike. "Free camping near the water. Can't beat that with a stick. We came in February and it was cold that night. Plenty of light, maybe to much if you're a dark sky's person but there are nice spots with trees," says Jesse P. about Hunter Park in Granbury.
What campers like
Easy river access: Campers appreciate sites that provide direct paths to the Paluxy River. "Guests of DVRVP can access the river by following a small trail at one corner of the park by the entrance of DVSP. Our family spent a whole day in the river a minute walk from our camper," Jim H. noted about Dinosaur Valley RV Park.
Wildlife watching: The native habitat supports various animals that campers enjoy observing. "Lovely park. Beautiful location and property surrounded by oak trees with an abundance of horses, cattle, a few donkeys and one goat," writes Sallie H. about 4C's Rodeo Ranch & RV Park.
Swimming holes: Natural water features rank highly among camper favorites. "This is a beautiful State Park with miles of trails, year round family activities, and dinosaur foot prints. Most of the trails, and primitive camp sites, are accessed by fording the river. This can be impossible depending on recent rain," explains Caleb H. about Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal river conditions: Water levels can make certain areas inaccessible during rainy periods. "I stayed in the primitive camping area. You hike between 1-2.5 miles across the river to sites. If the river is too high these sites may be closed. Water is only available at the trailhead," notes GoWhereYouAreDraw N. about Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground.
Limited drinking water: Some parks have restricted water facilities. "It's a pretty awesome place to camp and it's really quiet. There are restrooms but no water or electricity but they are really good at maintaining the restrooms (stocked with toilet paper and keeping it clean)," Janie M. explains about Hunter Park.
Campsite exposure: Many sites lack natural shade. "A cute little park with lots of picnic tables, a pier, and a huge field. The lake is gorgeous, but if you are car camping or tent camping, be wary about the fact that there will be little to no shade," warns sav about Hunter Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with specific family features. "This campground is very family oriented, playgrounds, a 'real' fort, teepee, basketball court, hiking trails, and a huge family pool. There's also a grown up only pool with a hot tub!" recommends Cat R. about Dinosaur Valley RV Park.
Educational activities: Several parks offer nature learning opportunities. "The area is amazing and kids love it too!!" shares Alexis H. about Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground, while another camper adds, "We all loved this park! Our sites were good size and perfect for us. We walked to the Dino tracks from our sites too! Fishing was good."
Family-specific sites: Request spots with easier access to attractions. "Great for the family! Has 80 ft pull through with full hookup. Five cabins. Two swimming pools and hot tub. River and state park access. Weekend activities like movie night, s'mores, hay rides, and petting zoo," reports Mark C. about Dinosaur Valley RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Several parks offer easy-access sites for larger rigs. "This is a new campground and very nice. All sites are pull thru (approx 80') with a lot of space between spaces. Grass is about 80% in for the pups," notes Bill B. about Dinosaur Valley RV Park.
Highway proximity: Some campgrounds provide quick access to main routes. "We needed a last minute place to stay, and the lady who answered the phone was super nice. She gave us a fantastic pull-through spot with full hookups (30 and 50 amp) for a price that was the best we have ever seen. The park has fantastic access to the highway," shares Alejandro G. about Midway Pines RV Park.
Leveling considerations: Site conditions vary across the best places to camp near Bluff Dale. "Not too busy and pretty quiet. 30 and 50 amp pull through and back in RV spots. Water and sewage hookups. Can be windy here, be careful with your awnings," advises Mary N. about Vw's Spot.
