The Crowley area offers several camping options approximately 15-20 minutes south of Fort Worth. Situated in the Texas Cross Timbers region with elevations around 700-800 feet, this area experiences hot summers and mild winters. Most campgrounds near Crowley provide access to area lakes, though specific equestrian facilities are limited.
What to do
Explore dinosaur tracks: Visit Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground where you can see real dinosaur footprints along the river. "It's fascinating to see multiple dinosaur footprints along the river in this park," notes Moe F. The park also offers varied hiking trails as Price T. mentions: "The hiking trails were very nice though and had a lot of variation."
Fishing opportunities: Many campsites in the area provide direct access to lakes and fishing piers. At Holiday Park Campground, fishing is popular as one camper observed, "Every couple of minutes there was a 'plop' from another fish popping out of the water. If you have a small boat, you could drop in right from your site and head out across the lake."
Trail riding: Though dedicated horse camping facilities are limited, Hamm Creek County Park offers access points for day rides. "Beautiful location just southwest of Fort Worth. The grounds are well taken care of and it's a great place to fish from the bank," according to Heather F. Some riders trailer horses for day use on the trails.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Loyd Park receives high marks for its generous camping spaces. According to Randy H., "All sites are paved, several are lake front, and the majority of them are well shaded. We camp here often - by ourselves, and with friends." Many campers appreciate the privacy between sites.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting allows for abundant wildlife spotting opportunities. At Cedar Hill State Park Campground, campers regularly encounter deer. Michael C. notes, "The park is designed with small loops for 15-20 camp sites in each loop. Very little traffic right by the individual spots." Karen B. adds, "Large park with a variety of campsites. Shaded areas available. Very clean."
Waterfront access: Direct lake access is available at several campgrounds. At Plateau campground, one visitor shared, "We had a lakeview from the opposite of the road." Campers frequently mention the breeze off lakes helping to moderate temperatures during hot Texas summers.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance reservations, especially during weekends and summer months. Loyd Park charges additional fees as David G. explains: "Front office has an extensive selection of grocery goods, supplies, firewood, etc. Sites have electricity and water, sewer dump is community spread across the grounds."
Weather considerations: The Texas climate affects camping conditions year-round. "Would recommend some sort of heater or extra layers for winter camping but wasn't terrible," advises one Dinosaur Valley camper. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F, making shaded sites highly desirable.
Bug protection: Prepare for insects, particularly during warmer months. Jill C. cautions about Cedar Hill State Park: "Nice lake but there were fire ants and chiggers all over our campsite!" Pack appropriate insect repellent for all visits.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Lake Mineral Wells State Park offers multiple recreational options. Deborah C. shares, "Lake Mineral Wells state park was great for biking, hiking, swimming and fishing. We had something fun for all 6 of us." The camp store rents kayaks and canoes for family outings.
Safety considerations: Most parks have ranger patrols and security features. Jill B. notes about Lake Mineral Wells: "We felt very safe at this park. They close the gate at 10 pm and you must have a code to enter after that. The park host is also a ranger."
Playground access: Many campgrounds include playground facilities for children. At Northside RV Resort, one visitor mentioned, "The park was very clean with four bathroom/shower rooms and laundry room as well. The park also has a gate with a code needed to enter."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most RV sites offer water and electricity, with fewer providing full hookups. At Northside RV Resort, visitors found good setup options as Lauren Z. notes: "Gated. Level pads. Quiet. Dog park. Play ground. Wifi. Cable. Lake."
Site sizing: Check site dimensions before booking, especially for larger rigs. Arvis C. advises about Holiday Park: "Lots of sites have lots of shade" but cautions "This site had little to no shade, ac had to work very hard. Would not recommend this site in summer time."
Dumping stations: While some campgrounds offer full hookups, others provide dump stations only. "We needed to fill our freshwater tank and he pointed out on the map the two dump stations with potable water," notes one camper about orientation procedures at a local park.