Tent camping near Colleyville, Texas offers access to natural settings within a 45-minute drive of this suburban community. The area features gently rolling hills with elevations between 500-700 feet and a climate characterized by hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F in July and August. Most campgrounds around Colleyville remain open year-round, with spring and fall providing more moderate temperatures for outdoor activities.
What to do
Hiking trails: Black Creek Lake NF Campground features scenic paths around the lake shore with minimal elevation changes. A camper notes, "Last time I went was mid-week. The temperature was soaring but a nice breeze off the lake coupled with the shady trees made for a very nice experience."
Mountain biking: Erwin Park maintains approximately 9 miles of dedicated biking trails maintained by DORBA. One reviewer shares, "Best mountain bike single tracks around with lots of built features," while another explains the trail system is "about 9 miles and maintained by DORBA, these trails flood easily after rain so check the DORBA website before making the trip."
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide access to productive fishing waters. At De Cordova Bend, a longtime visitor reports, "Fishing, swimming, camping, and a boat launch. Park is often very clean. Well lit at night. Nice hiking trail to the bottom of the dam."
Wildlife viewing: Watch for native Texas wildlife at several campgrounds. At De Cordova Bend, a camper notes, "It was very clean and there were many deer in the area all night."
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Free camping exists at several locations. According to a camper at De Cordova Bend, "Free to camp with a 10 day max," while another notes it's "Free and nice when your not sure where to go."
Proximity to Dallas-Fort Worth: Sycamore Bend Park provides a nature escape without distant travel. A reviewer states, "Really nice park right on the lake, but it does get a bit crowded. We arrived on a Saturday around noon and took what seemed to be the last spot."
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. At Northside RV Resort, a visitor found, "The bathrooms as so clean. The park itself is gated and secure. Each shower has its own toilet and vanity behind a lockable door."
Water activities: Lake access at multiple campgrounds enables swimming and boating. One camper at Little Elm Park mentions, "Electric hookups for RV generally a small area first come first serve.... 5 dollars per tent....restrooms and park lights.... stores nearby..... no showers."
What you should know
Site availability challenges: Weekends fill quickly at popular locations. A camper at Sycamore Bend Park found, "No access to drive to the actual site so I couldn't use my RTT but it's a short walk from where you park."
Bathroom condition varies: Facility quality differs significantly between campgrounds. Regarding Tadra Point Trailhead, a visitor warns, "There are two non flushing restroom. Plenty of poles for tying horses and there is water trofts for them but the water looked pretty disgusting. May want to think about bringing several gallons of water."
Weather considerations: Extreme summer heat affects camping comfort. A De Cordova Bend visitor advises, "Lots of sun and just a little shade, arrive early for a treed spot or bring shade awnings."
Reservation requirements: Some locations don't accept advance bookings. A camper at Tadra Point notes, "$10 per car fee to be paid at a self serve box."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Meadowmere Park & Campground provides recreational facilities for children. A camper reports, "We stayed in spot 23 and although windy, I really enjoyed the scenery and quietness. Porta potties were incredibly cleab and a main bathroom area featured showers and very clean as well."
Spacious sites: Select campgrounds offer room for family setups. A visitor to Meadowmere Park shares, "We really enjoyed this camp space. Peaceful, open, spacious and super nice management and staff."
Swimming areas: Multiple locations feature designated swimming spots. At Erwin Park, a camper notes, "Great easy spot for day camping or easy car camping with family. Good fire pits and great pavilion at the group site if you can get it."
Bug protection: Insects can be problematic, especially near water. A Crystal C. advises at Black Creek Lake: "Bug Spray is a must!! For some reason there are HUGE mosquitos so make sure to remember your spray otherwise you will itching all night."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. Regarding Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping, a camper cautions, "I would NOT recommend taking any kind of trailer or motorhome down these roads and to this spot."
Level sites: Cedar Ridge Mobile Home & RV Park provides stable parking. A visitor notes, "Pros: easy to find, quick booking, good view."
Weekend congestion: Busier periods create access challenges. A Michele A. found LBJ Grasslands accessible: "Taking the Trinity exit north off the loop around Decatur and using the navigation to the LBJ Grasslands to Park Rd 904 access was easy (& scenic). Once inside you could tell there'd been recent rain but the wet areas were easily avoided."
Seasonal considerations: Off-peak visits provide more solitude. A camper at De Cordova Bend explains, "Been told by a local, off season is best as July and August are typically overful."
