Burleson camping areas range from Corps of Engineers sites to state parks within a 30-mile radius. The region experiences summer temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F from June through August, with mild winter camping conditions typically between 40-65°F. Fall and spring provide the most comfortable camping weather with moderate temperatures and reduced precipitation.
What to do
River exploration: Track down dinosaur prints at Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground where visitors wade through shallow waters to discover preserved tracks. "We walked to the Dino tracks from our sites too! Fishing was good," notes Tiffany H., who recommends sites 15 and 17 for their proximity to trails.
Swimming opportunities: Cool off in natural water features during hot Texas summers. Dinosaur Valley offers "one of the best natural swimming holes I've found near DFW," according to Julie W., who adds that "even on a hot summer day you can go swim in the river or the blue hole."
Mountain biking: Explore established trail systems at Cleburne State Park Campground, which features multi-difficulty trails popular with cyclists. "It's actually popular with mountain bikers, and is worth even just doing a day trip to hit the trails of various difficulty levels," explains Matt T., who appreciates the "trails around the lake on foot and on bicycle."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Space for comfort at COE Benbrook Lake Mustang Park where "campsites offered some privacy as they were spaced pretty far apart," according to Cindy M., who found the campground "very peaceful" with "lots of shade trees."
Waterside relaxation: Sites with lake access for cooling off. "We found a spot with some trees by the lake and had electricity hook ups so it was actually quite nice," reports Jacob V., who camped at COE Benbrook Lake during 111°F weather and "almost had the entire place to ourselves."
Tree coverage: Natural shade protection at Treetops RV Resort where "we had a pull thru super. Lots of shade, and the trees were trimmed with plenty of room," according to Justin D. Another visitor, Stacey, confirms it's a "beautiful tree filled park" with "super well maintained" sites mixing pull-through and back-in options.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: River crossings can be impossible after heavy rain. "Most of the trails, and primitive camp sites, are accessed by fording the river. This can be impossible depending on recent rain," warns Caleb H. about Dinosaur Valley State Park.
Insect preparation: Fire ants and chiggers present at several campgrounds during warmer months. "Nice lake but there were fire ants and chiggers all over our campsite!" reports Jill C. about Cedar Hill State Park Campground, mentioning this issue in multiple reviews.
Site selection strategy: Premium spots worth the extra cost at North Texas Jellystone where standard sites can feel tight. "Site was pull through but pretty tight and close to neighbor. Probably worth paying for premium," advises Lizabeth T., who still found the campground offered "nice large dog park and clean restrooms/bathhouse."
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Plan around organized events at North Texas Jellystone where "there were scheduled activities all day long and the guys were able to go fishing in the nearby lake," according to Danielle R. Lauren Z. confirms it's "literally the best campground for families" with "tons of activities, games, crafts, pools, petting zoo, water park, and more."
Budget planning: Additional activity costs add up despite base camping fees. Kimberly D. notes about North Texas Jellystone: "There are sooo many fun activities (be warned, the cost can add up)." Similarly, Dinosaur Valley visitors mention disappointment when expected amenities aren't available: "The store claimed to have a food truck... but it was not open our entire four day stay."
Dog-friendly activities: Hiking options for four-legged family members at Loyd Park where Tammie L. reports: "This park is great only 45 minutes from home... Sites are spaced far apart all come with fire ring and covered picnic table. We stayed in site 115 great spot close to the water."
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: Call ahead for accurate information at Dinosaur Valley where "Some sites are short, so if you have a long rig you may want to call," advises Moe F., who enjoyed the "shaded paved sites" with "30 amp, water, picnic table & fire ring."
Weather protection options: Choose between shaded and premium sections at North Texas Jellystone. "We prefer the older part because of the trees that offer shade in the hot Texas sun, but the red carpet sites are so much better for big rigs," explains Kimberly D., who has stayed in both areas with her 44' rig.
Urban proximity benefits: Shopping and services nearby at Cedar Hill State Park Campground, which Michael C. describes as "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." For those wanting even closer urban access, Treetops RV Resort provides "great location to Fort Worth" with "less than a mile to Chisholm trail road," according to Charles D.
