Canton, Texas sits at an elevation of 540 feet in northeast Texas, approximately 60 miles east of Dallas. The area features rolling hills with pine and hardwood forests surrounding several lakes and reservoirs. RV camping options near Canton remain open year-round with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while winter nights can occasionally drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Athens: Lake Athens Marina and RV Park provides access to a 1,799-acre lake stocked with largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. "Great and beautiful RV park located right on Lake Athens. Very helpful office staff. Next door is the Boathouse, a great restaurant to eat at. Also, the Baitstore for fishing needs," notes Chris P.
Educational visits: The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center sits adjacent to Lake Athens Marina and RV Park, offering aquariums and demonstrations. "Walking distance to the fishery. There is a restaurant on site with FABULOUS food," shares Heather H., who stayed for a month.
Water recreation: Several rv sites near Canton, Texas offer lake access. At Thousand Trails Lake Tawakoni, visitors enjoy shoreline access and boating opportunities. "Great place if you have a boat or kayak! The park is great, its real camping with the amenities of a resort," remarks Tammie L.
What campers like
Concrete pads: Many RV parks feature level concrete pads for easier setup. At Chuck's RV Resort, "The roads and pads are all concrete with full hookups. The park is well maintained, aesthetically pleasing, and everyone is very nice," according to Angela R.
Recreation facilities: Beyond basic camping, several parks offer additional amenities. "The basketball/tennis courts had just been resurfaced. There's a small dog park area. There's a nice little pond you can fish in, catch-and-release only, no license required," notes Will and Lucinda B. about Bluebonnet Ridge RV Park.
Community atmosphere: RV parks near Canton often foster a friendly environment. At Texas Log Cabin RV Park, one camper shared, "This place I keep coming back to. It's like ol school its just simple no concrete, have common fire pit areas and they even give you the word to burn at the common area. Fur baby friendly and jus keep dog on leash."
What you should know
Reservation timing: During Canton's First Monday Trade Days, campgrounds fill quickly. "This is very popular RV Resort near Terrell, Tx. Do your reservation early or you may not get in! This is convenient to the Dallas/Ft Worth areas as well as Canton first Monday trade days," advises Eddie B.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit near major highways. "You're really close to I-20, you will hear the road noise. Only trucks are loud," reports Will and Lucinda B. who stayed at Bluebonnet Ridge RV Park for a month.
Site variations: Not all sites offer the same amenities or conditions. "The sites are gravel but level. We have a 44ft triple axl fifth wheel, had plenty of room (we had an end site but the middle row Sites do appear tight)," explains Heather H. about Lake Athens Marina and RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad access: The Mineola Civic Center and RV Park, located 25 miles east of Canton, offers water recreation for children. "Best splash pad around! Kids love it and playground with concessions available! Nice, clean facilities!" shares Becca H.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing without requiring licenses. At Bluebonnet Ridge RV Park, "There's a nice little pond you can fish in, catch-and-release only, no license required," which provides an accessible activity for children.
Wildlife viewing: Lake areas attract birds and small animals. At Thousand Trails Lake Tawakoni, visitors can observe wildlife across multiple habitats. "We have a view of the water and wildlife across the road with no sites to impede our view," notes Mary H.
Tips from RVers
Technical training: The Texan RV Park in Athens hosts the National RV Training Academy. "If you're full timing, like me, you should, at a minimum take the NRVTA's basic class. I have taken all of their technical classes," recommends Donald B., highlighting courses in AC systems, refrigerators, water heaters, solar systems, and generator maintenance.
Storage options: Some campgrounds offer overflow parking areas. At Bluebonnet Ridge RV Park, "There's ample overflow parking and trailer storage space so you don't have to crowd your campsite," which proves convenient for those with additional vehicles or equipment.
Cell service variability: Reception strength differs between carriers at certain campgrounds. "We switch from Verizon to ATT, and at times signals were weak. Other times just fine. Hit or miss depending on utilization I suppose," reports Heather H. after staying at Lake Athens Marina and RV Park.
