Tent camping around Duncanville, Texas requires some travel, with most sites located 30-45 miles from the city. This North Texas region features gently rolling terrain with elevations between 450-700 feet above sea level. Weather conditions shift dramatically between seasons, with winter nights often dropping below freezing and summer days regularly exceeding 100°F.
What to do
Lakeside activities: Little Elm Park offers direct access to Lake Lewisville for swimming and boating. The park charges only $5 per tent and provides electric hookups for tent campers. "Electric hookups for RV generally a small area first come first serve.... 5 dollars per tent....restrooms and park lights.... stores nearby..... no showers," notes Joshua O.
Mountain biking trails: Erwin Park in McKinney features approximately 9 miles of maintained trails through wooded areas. "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. Best mountain bike single tracks around with lots of built features," shares Brian.
Fishing opportunities: At De Cordova Bend, campers can fish directly from the shoreline of the Brazos River. "Fishing, swimming, camping, and a boat launch. Park is often very clean. Bathrooms are not always very clean. Well lit at night. Nice hiking trail to the bottom of the dam. Far enough away from town to be a peaceful quick getaway," writes Alejandro G.
What campers like
Weekday tranquility: When planning tent camping near Duncanville, many campers appreciate visiting during weekdays. "Decordova bend park is managed by the Bravos River Authority. Has several picnic tables, grills and a public boat ramp. Free to camp with a 10 day max. It was very clean and there were many deer in the area all night," reports Jason.
Secure locations: Northside RV Resort provides gated access for increased security, which appeals to solo campers and families. "The park was very clean with four bathroom/shower rooms and laundry room as well. We visited in November and it was quiet with a nice view of the water. The park also has a gate with a code needed to enter," shares Iris A.
Proximity to suburbs: Despite being near urban areas, many tent camping spots around Duncanville offer surprising natural settings. "We really enjoyed this camp space. Peaceful, open, spacious and super nice management and staff. We stayed in spot 23 and although windy, I really enjoyed the scenery and quietness," writes Melanie G. about Meadowmere Park & Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal concerns: Summer heat affects camping comfort significantly at tent sites near Duncanville. "Been told by a local, off season is best as July and August are typically overful. Lots of sun and just a little shade, arrive early for a treed spot or bring shade awnings. Large open area great to fly kites," advises Sean B.
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds, with some offering minimal amenities. "Only a few tent areas left since erosion has left several falling into the lake. Easy access, plenty of tree coverage, and each area has a picnic table, grill, and fire pit. Bathrooms were centrally located but the women's restroom was flooded with an unknown liquid," notes Aaron C. about Collin Park.
Reservation requirements: Most tent camping sites within 45 minutes of Duncanville operate on a first-come basis rather than reservations. This makes weekday arrival advisable for securing preferred spots, especially at the more popular parks during peak seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds near Duncanville feature play equipment for children. "We stayed in the month of November. It was cold and rainy but the park did not disappoint. The bathrooms as so clean. The park itself is gated and secure. Each shower has its own toilet and vanity behind a lockable door. There is a pond with a fountain and a HUGE fireplace (not fire pit) for relaxing," reports Angela R.
Privacy considerations: Family tent camping benefits from selecting sites with adequate separation. "Erwin Park is a great place to visit if you're looking to spend a few days running or biking trails. Campsites are far enough apart that you have privacy yet close enough that you don't feel alone," shares James.
Wildlife viewing: Many parks around Duncanville offer opportunities to spot deer, birds, and small mammals, especially at dawn and dusk. For children, bringing binoculars and wildlife identification guides adds educational value to the tent camping experience.
Tips from RVers
Extended stay limitations: Most campgrounds restrict consecutive nights. "The price has gone up from $7 to $20, but that's about average it seems now. The restrooms really stink, but are always clean and stocked in my experience. Max 3 night stay, no electricity, water, or showers. Nice fire rings, flag pole, and calm park," notes Taylin B.
Weather impacts: Rain can significantly affect camping conditions at tent sites near Duncanville. "When it rains stay on the pavement as the mud is nasty and gumbo. The road is very loud and there are train tracks with train horns blaring all night long - make sure your bedroom faces away from the road for the best sleep," advises Tex B.
Amenity trade-offs: Most sites offer basic facilities rather than full-service options. When tent camping in the Duncanville area, plan for limited shower access and bring portable power solutions for electronic devices.
