Dallas campgrounds offer varied terrain with grassland prairie settings and lakefront access throughout the region. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 400-700 feet, providing mild winter camping conditions compared to other parts of Texas. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F from June through September, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Hickory Creek Park on Lake Lewisville features both paved and natural trails suitable for all skill levels. A reviewer notes, "There's a bike/walking path that goes around and through the park and a beach" with multiple connecting routes.
Fishing opportunities: East Fork Park Campground at Lake Lavon provides shoreline fishing access with limited shade. According to one camper, "We had a nice view of Lake Lavon. Grills and tables vary by site, some are very old, but many have been replaced."
Boating access: Willow Grove Park offers boat ramps and lake access in a clean, well-maintained setting. A visitor shares, "Super beautiful, clean, modern campsite. The wifi is not very reliable. The bathrooms and showers work, and are clean (other than the bugs obviously)."
Wildlife viewing: Cedar Hill State Park provides excellent bird watching opportunities within its diverse habitats. "Very clean and picturesque park, would come back for sure," notes one recent visitor describing the natural setting.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Loyd Park offers well-separated sites with natural screening. A reviewer states, "Sites are spaced far apart and all come with fire ring and covered picnic table. We stayed in site 115, great spot close to the water."
Clean facilities: Treetops RV Resort maintains immaculate common areas. One camper observed, "The park is very clean, having done lots of updates. All of the amenities you would want in a park, plus lots and lots of trees. Everything is clean."
Lake views: Multiple sites at Hickory Creek provide direct lake access. A camper shares, "A lot of space between sites, well level and paved, family oriented, very quite, beautiful lake and tree sites, lighted power supply post with all the amps available."
Shade coverage: Cedar Hill State Park offers wooded sites that provide relief from summer heat. "Large park with a variety of campsites. Shaded areas available. Very clean," notes a visitor who appreciated the tree cover.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer camping requires preparation for extreme heat, particularly at East Fork Park which lacks substantial shade. One camper warned, "There is plenty of space between sites, but no trees so not a lot of privacy. Probably wouldn't stay again."
Insect awareness: Several campgrounds report seasonal pest issues. A Cedar Hill visitor noted, "Nice lake but there were fire ants and chiggers all over our campsite," highlighting the need for insect repellent.
Flooding potential: Dallas/Arlington KOA Holiday and other area campgrounds occasionally experience weather-related closures. During heavy rains, low-lying sites may become waterlogged.
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds require advance booking, especially during spring and fall peak seasons. Weekend reservations at Loyd Park should be secured 2-3 months in advance for premium lakeside spots.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Willow Grove Park offers child-friendly facilities. A camper reports, "There is a park with slides and swings. The lake was warm and there was a little 'beach' for swimming- I would recommend water shoes and floaties!"
Swimming areas: Lavonia Park provides lake access for swimming, though facilities are minimal. A visitor noted, "If you have kids and are just looking for an easy day out on the lake, this is great."
Safety considerations: Most Dallas-area campgrounds feature ranger patrols. Hickory Creek Park has regular security checks, as one camper observed: "I saw the police drive through often, but it still didn't feel as secure as other campsites I've been to."
Educational opportunities: Cedar Hill State Park occasionally offers junior ranger programs on weekends. The park grounds contain natural science learning opportunities throughout the trail system.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many area campgrounds have aging concrete pads that require additional leveling. A Lavonia Park visitor advised, "Our site was very unlevel on the hill, so bring your chocks."
Hookup locations: Plantation Place offers full hookups but limited facilities. One RVer noted, "WARNING: NO BATHROOMS, NO SHOWERS. Quiet park with easy access to Dallas. Nice dog walking area and dog park. Full hookups."
Dump station access: Several campgrounds have dump stations located outside the main camping area. A Willow Grove visitor explained, "Dump station is near the middle school outside the park so had to drive our tote 1/4-1/2 mile up the street with a decent amount of traffic."
Urban convenience: Treetops RV Resort provides quick access to city amenities. A camper shared, "Located in Arlington smack dab in between D/FW. Just down the road from the Cowboys Stadium. 25 minutes to downtown Dallas and 20 to Fort Worth."
