Bardwell Lake sits at approximately 421 feet above sea level with an average depth of 19 feet, covering 3,570 acres near Ennis, Texas. The lake was formed in 1965 when the Trinity River was impounded for flood control, creating numerous camping opportunities around its 25 miles of shoreline. Winter temperatures average between 35-60°F, while summer months can reach 95-100°F, affecting camping comfort levels during peak seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bardwell Lake contains abundant crappie, catfish, and bass populations accessible from multiple fishing piers. COE Bardwell Lake Mott Park offers direct lake access where "clean lake, no broken glass, mowed grass" create ideal conditions for family fishing trips, according to reviewer Elizabeth C.
Walking trails: Paths surrounding the lake provide opportunities for nature exploration and exercise. At Loyd Park, "great bike trails" wind through wooded areas, with one camper noting the park is "extremely clean" with "super friendly staff" making it ideal for day hikes.
Beach activities: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming beaches with gradual entry points. Liberty Hill Park features "a great swimming area with beach area and large children play area," according to Karen A., making it perfect for families wanting water recreation beyond boating.
What campers like
Lake views: Many campsites offer unobstructed water views, particularly at elevated sites. At High View, "very pretty lake views and tons of grass" create a scenic camping experience where "my dog loved going for runs through the grass," as Dani K. describes.
Clean facilities: Campground bathrooms and shower facilities receive regular maintenance. Northside RV Resort gets praise for being "very clean with four bathroom/shower rooms and laundry room," with Iris A. noting "the park also has a gate with a code needed to enter."
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer well-spaced sites for a more secluded glamping experience. Wolf Creek Park has "nice, secluded campsites with full hook-ups" according to Jennifer B., who appreciates that "the campsites are clean and well maintained."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer heat requires preparation for glamping in Ennis, Texas. Temperatures consistently reach 95°F+ between June and August, affecting comfort levels in canvas structures. One camper at Liberty Hill Park Campground noted that during their visit "spaces are close, water pressure is very low," issues that can be more pronounced during peak summer months.
Gate closure times: Several campgrounds lock entrance gates at specific hours. A High View camper warned, "When we arrived at 11pm the gates were locked with no one in site... Not a single word about late arrivals at the gate or on recreation.gov."
Insect preparation: Ant populations can be problematic at certain campgrounds, particularly after rain. Eric S. reported "Argentine ants are very bad because they're small, once they're in your car you just take them everywhere," making pest preparation essential.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several glamping locations feature children's play areas adjacent to camping loops. Jennifer B. notes that Wolf Creek offers a "roped off designated swimming area with a small beach," and there's a "small playground" making it ideal for families with young children.
Safety features: Gated campgrounds provide additional security for family camping trips. At Northside RV Resort, "the park is gated and secure" with Angela R. noting that "each shower has its own toilet and vanity behind a lockable door."
Kid-friendly activities: Pack water toys and fishing gear for children as most glamping sites near Ennis have shoreline access. Myc C. shared that at Loyd Park, "We spent three days there swimming and hiking around. Great times!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds have concrete pads, but some require additional leveling. At COE Navarro Mills Reservoir Oak Park, "Site 11 unlevel" was reported by Napunani, recommending bringing leveling blocks for some sites.
Utility placement: Review hookup locations before selecting a site as some have unusual configurations. Napunani noted "Site 11 has electrical hook up at rear on the door side of the camper" and "water connection is centered at the rear of the parking pad."
Water pressure variations: Bring a pressure regulator as water pressure fluctuates between campgrounds. At Liberty Hill, "water pressure is very low" according to Eric S., an issue that affects glamping sites with private bathroom facilities as well.
