Tent camping near Ennis, Texas ranges from basic facilities to more rustic experiences across a 30-mile radius. The region features post oak savanna terrain with elevations ranging from 400-550 feet and receives approximately 39 inches of rainfall annually. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F from June through September, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons for most visitors.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cedar Ridge Mobile Home & RV Park offers convenient access to nearby fishing spots, with one camper noting it has "good view" options for those looking to cast lines in local waters.
Outdoor supply shopping: For campers who forget essential gear, the Ennis area has accessible shopping options. As one Cedar Ridge visitor mentioned, the park is "located pretty close to a bunch of outdoor sports stores... so if you forgot something on your trip - it's pretty easy to pick up."
Evening relaxation: The communal gathering spaces at Northside RV Resort provide unique evening options. One camper highlighted "a pond with a fountain and a HUGE fireplace (not fire pit) for relaxing" that distinguishes this site from others in the area.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many tent campers appreciate the well-maintained facilities at certain locations. A camper at Northside RV Resort mentioned "each shower has its own toilet and vanity behind a lockable door" providing privacy not commonly found at campgrounds.
Security features: The gated entry systems at select campgrounds provide peace of mind. One reviewer stated Northside is "Gated. Level pads. Quiet," while another appreciated that "the park also has a gate with a code needed to enter."
Convenient location: For travelers exploring the greater Dallas area, camps near Ennis serve as strategic bases. A visitor to Cedar Ridge Mobile Home & RV Park described it as a "Solid option if you're near Dallas" and "easy to find, quick booking."
What you should know
Weather impacts: Rain can significantly affect camping conditions in this region. At Collin Park, a visitor reported bathroom issues where "the women's restroom was flooded with an unknown liquid" despite there not being recent rainfall, suggesting drainage problems.
Site erosion concerns: Some campgrounds face ongoing terrain changes. A Collin Park camper observed "Only a few tent areas left since erosion has left several falling into the lake," indicating a reduction in available spaces.
Reservation policies: Some locations have strict booking terms. One Northside camper reported: "Throughout the online reservation process nothing is disclosed regarding the terms and conditions. After they take and accept your money, they email you a link to the terms and conditions which MUST you must click ACCEPT in order to stay."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with children can find dedicated play areas at select campgrounds. A reviewer mentioned Northside offers a "Dog park. Play ground. Wifi. Cable. Lake," providing entertainment options for different age groups.
Budget considerations: Weekend camping can be affordable for families. One camper at Bella Hampton Farm Foundation appreciated that "for $25 it was a great spot for a quick little trip and a place that we will go back to," making it accessible for short family outings.
Seasonal timing: Insect activity varies by season in the Ennis area. A reviewer noted: "We stayed here in November so didn't have any bug problems," suggesting late fall might be more comfortable for family camping compared to summer months when bugs are more prevalent.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: The layout of certain campgrounds makes navigation easier for different vehicle types. An RVer at Camp Meisenbach found the sites "large and easy to pull in and out," which benefits those with larger setups or less towing experience.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise pollution from nearby infrastructure. One camper warned: "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."
Utility reliability: Infrastructure at some sites experiences occasional disruptions. A camper reported "while we were there the internet and water was off a lot," suggesting travelers should bring backup water supplies and not rely heavily on campground WiFi connectivity.