Campgrounds near Kennedale, Texas provide year-round access in varied settings within 30 minutes of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Situated in the Trinity River basin at approximately 600 feet elevation, the area's relatively flat terrain includes several lakes and reservoirs. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F from June through August, making water access and shade critical factors when selecting a campsite near Kennedale.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cedar Hill State Park offers good fishing conditions with multiple species available. According to one visitor, "The park is extremely clean. Campsites are all level and great for the Big Rigs," with direct "access to the lake" making it convenient for anglers.
Beach activities: The Vineyards Campground & Cabins includes a designated swim beach and fishing dock where families can enjoy water recreation. One camper reports, "My boys caught a 12 lb and 20 lb catfish right off the fishing dock," demonstrating the productive fishing available directly from the campground.
Mountain biking: Trails at Cedar Hill State Park accommodate cyclists of varying skill levels. A visitor noted the "hiking trails were very nice though and had a lot of variation. They were being used mainly as mountain bike trails but were still plenty fun for hiking."
Flea market shopping: Traders Village combines camping with one of the region's largest flea markets. A reviewer described it as "one of the biggest flee markets around and it's 2 days of walking and shopping," adding that the location "has all your needs for as long of a stay you ever need."
What campers like
Shade coverage: The tree canopy at many campgrounds provides essential relief during hot Texas summers. At Treetops RV Resort, campers appreciate the "very well shaded" sites with "lots of shade trees" that help manage the summer heat.
Site spacing: Campers frequently note the generous spacing between sites at Holiday Park Campground. According to one review, "Large sites is a big plus. Perimeter sites are much better than inner loop sites," offering more privacy and better views.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campsites provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Holiday Park, one visitor reported seeing "dozens of deer out of all sizes. I came across 5 different groups of them as I was driving around taking in the entire campground."
Convenient location: The proximity to urban amenities while maintaining a natural setting appeals to many campers. One reviewer at Dallas/Arlington KOA Holiday noted it's a "Great place to stay! Plenty of shade to help with the 100+ degree days! Dog park is nice, staff is friendly."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance bookings, particularly during peak seasons. One camper advised, "Call ahead to see which sites have 50 amp, you'll need it in summer time."
Site selection strategies: The orientation and location of sites impact comfort levels significantly. At Loyd Park, a visitor noted, "Campsites are a little close together nearest the water but probably the best sites in the Park," suggesting waterfront locations balance proximity with desirable views.
Pest awareness: Several campgrounds report seasonal pest issues. According to one Cedar Hill State Park review, there were "fire ants and chiggers all over our campsite," while another mentioned, "There were fire ants and chiggers all over! But the lake was nice."
Weather considerations: The Texas climate demands preparation for extreme heat. A Holiday Park visitor recommended "some sort of heater or extra layers for winter camping," showing the temperature variations throughout the year.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: The Vineyards Campground provides multiple water activities suitable for different ages. A family reported, "We boated, kayaked, rented a golf cart and more. The gold sites are worth it! All concrete sites on the water and stone encased cooking areas."
Playground facilities: Campgrounds with play areas receive higher ratings from families. One visitor to The Vineyards noted, "Playground was amazing with an awesome 'roller-coaster' swing that the teenagers even loved."
Scheduled activities: North Texas Jellystone offers organized entertainment throughout the day. A parent shared, "This typically isn't our type of park but the kids enjoyed it. We went in October and they had some fun Halloween activities," highlighting the seasonal programming.
Site selection for kids: When camping with children, site location matters significantly. One family at North Texas Jellystone advised, "Site was pull through but pretty tight and close to neighbor. Probably worth paying for premium."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Water and electrical service varies between campgrounds and specific sites. At Loyd Park, a camper clarified, "They have a few full hook ups and lots of RV sites with water and electricity. Sites are spaced far apart all come with fire ring and covered picnic table."
Maintenance standards: RVers emphasize the importance of well-maintained facilities. A Treetops RV Resort visitor reported, "The park is very clean, having done lots of updates. All of the amenities you would want in a park, plus lots and lots of trees. Everything is clean."
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds offer better maneuverability for larger vehicles. One Cedar Hill State Park visitor noted, "The park is designed with small loops for 15-20 camp sites in each loop. Very little traffic right by the individual spots. Easy in and out of park."
Seasonal operating differences: Holiday Park operates year-round but with seasonal variations. One winter visitor explained, "We needed to fill our freshwater tank and he pointed out on the map the two dump stations with potable water," highlighting the importance of knowing where to access utilities.
