Best Tent Camping near Carrollton, TX
Tent campsites near Carrollton, Texas offer a mix of established and primitive camping options within reasonable driving distance of the metropolitan area. Sycamore Bend Park in Lewisville provides primitive tent camping along the shores of Lake Lewisville with sites that require a short walk from the parking area. Meadowmere Park & Campground offers 36 tent-specific campsites with more amenities, while Erwin Park in McKinney provides a natural escape with multiple tent sites set among wooded areas.
Most tent campgrounds in the area feature basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and trash collection, though availability varies by location. Sycamore Bend Park charges $20 per night with a maximum 3-night stay and offers no electricity, water hookups, or showers. Toilet facilities are available but primitive. Meadowmere Park provides drinking water, electric hookups, and shower facilities, making it suitable for campers seeking more comfort. Little Elm Park offers electric hookups with fires allowed, while Erwin Park includes drinking water, fire rings, and toilets. Many sites are walk-in only, requiring campers to carry gear a short distance from parking areas.
Areas near Lake Lewisville and Lake Lavon provide water views and recreational opportunities for tent campers. The relatively flat terrain throughout the region makes for comfortable tent setup, though shade availability varies significantly between locations. Tree cover at parks like Erwin Park offers relief from summer heat and creates natural site separation. According to one visitor, "Erwin Park is a great getaway that feels like you're far from home but only a few minutes away when you want a spur of the moment trip." For those seeking more remote experiences, Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland offers free dispersed camping approximately 50 miles northwest of Carrollton, with primitive tent sites accessible via drive-in and walk-in routes but no facilities or amenities.