Located within 30 miles of Dallas, DeSoto's camping options span across a 350-acre lake region with elevations ranging from 450 to 550 feet. Summer temperatures often exceed 95°F from June through September, with humidity levels reaching 70%. Most campgrounds maintain year-round operations with water access points that fluctuate seasonally based on lake levels.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Liberty Hill Park Campground features a covered fishing barge protected from weather conditions. "Lake Navarro Mills is well know as the best Crappie fishing lake in Texas. Navarro Mills Liberty Hill Park features a fantastic fishing barge that is covered allowing you to fish no matter the weather," notes one visitor.
Biking trails: Sites at North Texas Jellystone have paved paths connecting amenities. "Bring bikes!" recommends a Houston visitor who drives four hours to reach this location. "We are from Houston and I opt to drive 4 hours to this one in burleson. Waller is good fun but that park does not compare to this site."
Swimming beaches: Many sites offer dedicated swim areas with sandy shores. "Great swimming area with beach area and large children play area," reports a camper at Liberty Hill Park. Highview Park includes swimming zones with no broken glass and regularly maintained shorelines.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Loyd Park offers well-separated camping areas with full amenities. "Sites are spaced far apart all come with fire ring and covered picnic table. We stayed in site 115, great spot close to the water," shares a visitor who appreciates the park's proximity to home.
Well-stocked provisions: Campgrounds maintain on-site stores for necessities. "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," reports a winter camper at Loyd Park.
Lakefront views: Mott Park campsites provide direct water views. "Our site #29 was nice and shady and panoramic view of lake," mentions a Class A RV camper. Another visitor values "the view, electricity, water, and showers was very nice at such an affordable price."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Prime spots at popular parks fill months in advance. "Made my reservation online just a few spots were available. Spot 04 with a water view space is slanted. They had the parking pass ready to pick up so it was not necessary to speak with anyone," reports a Mott Park visitor.
Seasonal variations: Some facilities operate limited schedules. "Marina was closed and several lots needed mowing but beauty of lake made up for it," notes a Liberty Hill visitor, emphasizing the swimming beach compensated for seasonal limitations.
Pest considerations: Northside RV Resort and other sites require preparation for insects. "The bugs are bad here, we had ants in our trailer and lots of bites. When it rains stay on the pavement as the mud is nasty and gumbo," warns a visitor who still found the resort acceptable for short stays.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: High View Park maintains family recreation areas alongside water activities. "Local sheriff's dept and park ranger made several trips through the park which made it feel secure. Bathroom facilities were clean," reports a visitor who enjoyed elevated lake views despite rain.
Entertainment options: Yurt camping near DeSoto, Texas includes scheduled activities at family-oriented parks. "Lots of activities, good clean sites and golf cart rental!" mentions a visitor to North Texas Jellystone. Another notes "Lots of activities to keep the kids entertained! Kids and adults both enjoy candy bar bingo and dancing the night away to tunes by an energetic DJ!"
Safety measures: Supervised water areas provide secure swimming. "This park is run by the City Grand Prairie, which provides a lot of safety. Campsites are a little close together nearest the water but probably the best sites in the Park. We spent three days there swimming and hiking around," shares a Loyd Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: The Vineyards Campground & Cabins offers premium spots for larger rigs. "We have stayed here several times. We haven't found a bad site yet! Great fishing, kayaking, play ground, and swim area. Very well kept up. The store is well stocked," shares a repeat visitor.
Hookup availability: DeSoto area yurt camping and RV sites provide varying utility connections. "Some sites are 50 amp, while all are for 30 amp. Larger rigs are more accomodated next to the lake. But call ahead to see which sites have 50 amp, you'll need it I summer time," advises a Loyd Park camper.
Weather preparation: Summer heat requires adequate electrical service. "Very Pretty Views. Large Sites with covered Picnic tables. Sites spread nicely with no one on top of you. Great security visible as well as a coded gate after hours," notes a Vineyards camper who appreciated the shade structures.
