Campsites near Denton, Texas range from lake-edge tent sites to full-service RV parks with concrete pads. The region sits at approximately 620-700 feet elevation with oak and juniper tree coverage providing variable shade in most camping areas. Winter temperatures frequently drop to the 30-40°F range at night, while flat terrain and exposure to prairie winds can create challenging conditions during seasonal storms.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Lake Ray Roberts State Park offers direct lake access from several primitive campsites. "I stayed at the Wild Plum (primitive) camping area with my son in early spring... Sites 119-122 (maybe 123) are right on the lake so you can see ducks and do some bank fishing without needing to go anywhere," notes a visitor at Isle du Bois Campsites.
Hiking trail connections: Several interconnected trails can be accessed directly from the campsites for longer day hikes. "Scenic trails vary in distance but are easy to connect for longer hikes – or walk the shoreline for a nice lakeside view. Lots to explore and see here!" according to one Isle du Bois camper.
Family playground options: Multiple Denton-area campgrounds feature playground facilities within walking distance of camping areas. At Willow Grove Park, "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!" writes one visitor.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention the well-designed site spacing at many Denton-area campgrounds. At Lake Park Campground, "The campsites are pretty well spread out and many of them have awesome views of the lake," reports a reviewer who appreciated the layout.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Deer sightings are common at several locations around Denton. "A very nice state park, about an hour northwest of Dallas. Lots of hiking and biking trails, with clean restrooms! Deer will approach your campsite and you're likely to see all kinds of wildlife," notes one camper at Isle du Bois.
Winter camping experience: The Denton area offers year-round camping with fewer crowds during winter months. "There are few campers here in December. Restrooms were clean. Campsites, large and private," writes a winter visitor to Isle du Bois, highlighting the off-season advantages.
What you should know
Walk-in distances for primitive sites: Some primitive camping areas require longer walks than indicated. "The trail path to the campsites is further than indicated or implied on the website, which isn't a problem if you're packed light, but if you're car camping with heavy equipment you will be surprised how far it is," warns one camper at Isle du Bois.
Site exposure variations: Some campgrounds have minimal shade cover in certain areas. At Johnson Branch Campsites, "You could see the toilet in our area from the campsite, but did have to walk around a bushy area to get to it but it was doable in the middle of the night. There is a firewood vending machine there that's very cool and is reasonably priced for good wood."
Public access considerations: Not all campgrounds have controlled entry points. At Willow Grove, "The park is technically closed at 10pm but there's no gate and technically anyone can drive in any time," reports a solo camper who stayed for two weeks.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for kids: Waterfront sites with swimming access work well for families needing cooling options. At Hickory Creek, "We hopped over for a one night trip and had a blast! Our site was right off the water with a fun view (at night) of the lake Lewisville bridge. Sites were large enough for us (tent campers) without feeling too close to our rv/camper neighbors!"
Playground proximity: Choose sites near play areas for convenience with children. "Location: The location is tucked away in the small lakeside town of Hickory Creek...which is surrounded by Denton to the north and Lewisville/Dallas to the south. Even though it's in a highly populated area, it feels very remote when you get into the park. The car camp sites are ideal for families with playgrounds easy to access and well maintained."
Weekend noise levels: Family campers should consider timing of visits. "The park seems to be well-known amongst locals, so on the weekends it's especially crowded. Lots of big groups coming, drinking beers, being slightly rowdy," notes a visitor to Willow Grove.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Utility connections vary significantly between sites. At Pilot Knoll Park, "I found the water pressure too strong for my class b as the pressure caused a link under my sink. Convinced me to purchase my own water pressure resistor gauge."
Site spacing for larger rigs: RVers appreciate the generous spacing at several Denton-area campgrounds. "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. Fire pits, bbq, picnic tables and some with gazebo," reports an RVer at Hickory Creek.
Off-season availability: The winter months offer easier reservation opportunities for RVers. As one camper at Hickory Creek noted, "This definitely isn't wilderness and as another reviewer pointed out, the campground can be noisy. It's located adjacent to I-35, just west of the Lake Lewisville bridge, so there's traffic noise depending on how close you're camped to the road."
