Campgrounds near Garland, Texas provide varied camping experiences around nearby lakes like Lake Lavon and Lewisville Lake. Notable options include East Fork Park Campground on Lake Lavon offering RV and tent sites with electric hookups and water access, and Cedar Hill State Park approximately 30 miles southwest featuring cabins, RV sites, and tent camping. Most developed campgrounds in the region cater primarily to RV campers with full or partial hookups, though tent camping areas are available at several locations including Collin Park and Hickory Creek. The Garland area offers a mix of waterfront campsites that are ideal for weekend getaways, with several locations providing direct lake access for fishing and swimming activities.
Access to many campgrounds requires planning ahead, particularly for the more popular sites during summer months. East Fork Park features paved RV pads that have deteriorated over time, with several visitors noting significant pothole issues on access roads. Most campgrounds maintain bathroom facilities, though quality and cleanliness vary considerably between locations. Weather conditions in this region can be extreme during summer with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, making shade a valuable commodity at exposed lakeside camping areas. "Very hot and not heavily wooded or shaded. Sites are basic but fine. Bathrooms were nice and clean. Area is pretty and some sites have view of the lake," noted one camper about East Fork Park.
Lake views represent a significant draw for campers in the Garland area, with several campgrounds offering direct waterfront access for fishing and swimming opportunities. Hidden Cove Park & Marina and The Vineyards Campground & Cabins provide cabin accommodations for those seeking more comfort while maintaining proximity to recreational water activities. Visitors frequently mention spacious sites at locations like Lavonia on Lake Lavon, though amenities are often basic. Campers with tents should research carefully, as some locations primarily accommodate RVs with limited tent-specific sites. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "Nothing to knock your socks off, but it's a great campsite close to home and nice for a quick getaway. Has the feel of being somewhat remote since it's out by the lake." Many camping areas in this region serve as convenient weekend escapes for Dallas-Fort Worth residents rather than destination campgrounds.
$14 - $150 / night
"We had a nice view of Lake Lavon. Grills and tables vary by site, some are very old, but many have been replaced."
"I avoided any rough spots in the road and arrived at a LONG and roomie site with a beautiful view of the lake."
$14 - $30 / night
"Nothing to knock you socks off, but it’s a great campsite close to home and nice for a quick getaway. Has the feel of being somewhat remote since it’s out by the lake."
"Doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles but does have sewer, lake views, wide open spaces, and clean! Great food places nearby."
$25 - $30 / night
"They offer water access, electricity, are near facilities, have tables and fire pits. Many of the sites overlook the lake or have easy access to the lake."
"Lake is nearby, and fishing permits in Tx are cheap and easy to grab online. Fairly quiet, but the sites themselves are private a shaded for the most part."
$14 - $30 / night
"Location: The location is tucked away in the small lakeside town of Hickory Creek...which is surrounded by Denton to the north and Lewisville/Dallas to the south."
"The location of this campground feels secluded from the city but close to the highway so you can be in the city within a few minutes drive."
"Stayed here as a group traveling to the Frisco, Texas area for a college football game. We spent 2 nights in a RV. Was within close distance to where we were attending the football game."
"Most Sites appear to be good size (at least those near our site). Has store onsite for drinks, snacks, etc. Ability to rent paddle boards and kayaks at the park to enjoy the lake."
TravelerBest place to go for a clean and quiet place to camp. Beautiful location, sunsets, horses and donkeys makes Sleep Under the Pecan Trees a place we go to camp multiple times a year for three years now.
TravelerGreat environment & friendly staff. My only complaint is rowdy neighbors almost fist fighting drunk a site over. Children were present and foul language was being used and foul music was being played. I am young only 28 and the music was not family friendly. I have no kids but others nearby did. Other than the certain members on that site everything was great.
ScoutGreat sites close to the water.
TravelerFrom calling and asking on good spots with my setup to how clean the bathrooms and showers are (especially for the price), giving this place 5*s!
ScoutBeautiful setting along Lake Lewisville. Camped lakeside with a beach.
GuideThe Good, level, spacious campsites with an awning over the picnic table. Great lay out for campsites. The Lake Lavon was beautiful. The not so good, the restrooms were old and not well kept up. They were not heated which probably doesn't matter most of the time in Texas but when we were there it was 20 degrees. Secondly there is dog poop everywhere, it seems that every time I stepped off of the pavement I had to clean dog crap out of my shoes.
Traveler45-50 mins from downtown Dallas. Quiet in January. Stayed two nights, space 45. Level
GuideThis was the first time our family has camped two consecutive nights. My two boys 4/5 had a blast at the site, walking the trails, and finding spots to throw rocks into the lake. We were surprised at how quiet the campsites were, especially with how many people were staying in the park. P1 was great, right next to parking and the street, which was also the only minor drawback. If staying primitive, P3 is the way to go. We will definitely be back!
GuideThe RV sites have a full backyard in them with fire pit and easy access to hook up. The road in front feels kind of busy though, from the satellite view it looks pretty quaint but in reality it's kind of busy.
Camping sites near Garland, Texas cluster around several area lakes with varying levels of amenities and accessibility. Summer temperatures consistently reach above 90°F with limited natural shade at many locations, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Most campgrounds remain open year-round despite seasonal weather challenges.
Water activities on Lake Lavon: East Fork Park Campground offers direct lake access where visitors regularly observe sailboats. "The location is nice on the lake with lots of sail boats sailing by. There is plenty of space between sites, but no trees so not a lot of privacy," notes camper Mia D.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide bank fishing access points with varying conditions throughout the year. "We loved coming here because it's convenient, private, and by the water," mentions a reviewer about Hickory Creek - Lewisville Lake, noting that waterfront spots in the 90-94 loop offer prime fishing locations.
Trail exploration: Multiple parks feature trail systems for day hiking or biking. "The primitive nature trails are great for collecting sticks for the campfire!" writes Gina & Memphis C. about Hickory Creek. The nearby wildlife and native Texas plants provide nature observation opportunities along maintained paths.
Spacious camping areas: Many campers appreciate the generous site dimensions at COE Lavon Lake Lavonia where campsites avoid overcrowding. "Wide open spaces and beautiful lake views. The sites are far apart and lots of green space," reports Jess W.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms receive positive mentions at several parks. At Hidden Cove Park & Marina, campers can access "a full marina, and swimming area. Seasonal restaurant with indoor & outdoor eating areas," according to Richard M.
Proximity to urban conveniences: Many campers value these areas for weekend trips due to their location near Dallas-Fort Worth. "Great campground, close to town just in case you need to make a quick trip for something," notes one reviewer about East Fork Park, highlighting the accessibility to shopping and services.
Road and pad conditions: Multiple reviewers mention deteriorating infrastructure at certain campgrounds. At East Fork Park, "Bad roads into and thru the park... Sites are fairly well dispersed with water and electric at each. Be careful though, because the asphalt is crumbling and many have ankle-breaking drop offs between the parking pad and the picnic table," cautions Dennis G.
Maintenance inconsistencies: Regular upkeep varies significantly between locations. "Great campground, electric and water. Only issue is the grass is always one high so bring a weed whip. We have family in the area, so we visit regularly and every time we stay here the grass is ridiculous," explains Suzann E.
Limited shade coverage: Many sites offer minimal tree coverage, particularly problematic during summer months. "Not many trees in some site for shade," notes Tony D. about East Fork Park. This factor should influence your timing and preparation for hot weather camping.
Site selection matters: When camping with children, select areas with room for activities. At Cedar Hill State Park Campground, "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," reports Michael C.
Wildlife awareness: Local fauna includes various insects and occasionally snakes. "Plenty of ducks to feed, but they were not interested or just didn't like the boat. To our surprise, there was also plenty of snakes! We crossed one on the road as we drove in and saw several swimming in the lake," warns Monica C. about Hickory Creek.
Beach access varies: Water entry points differ dramatically between parks. At Collin Park, "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," according to Aaron C.
Hookup availability: Most parks provide electric and water connections, but sewer hookups are limited. "The electric was recently upgraded after the flooding this year. So there's 50 amp available now too," notes Susan L. about Hickory Creek, adding that "Water pressure was good and there was lots of shade and ample privacy between sites in this section."
Dump station logistics: Plan for centralized dump stations rather than at-site sewer connections in many parks. "The only 'negative' I found is that the sewage hook up is not at the actual site. There are dump stations in different places. It was a bit nerve wracking to use the dump station while people waited behind me," shares Luis about their experience at Hickory Creek.
Site leveling challenges: Many pads require leveling equipment for comfortable setup. "Our site was a nice lake front area that was very spacious and a beautiful view," reports Monica C., though noting site conditions may require blocks or levelers at Hickory Creek.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any free camping options around Garland?
Free camping options are limited in the immediate Garland area as most nearby campgrounds are fee-based. Johnson Branch Campsites — Ray Roberts Lake State Park offers lower-cost camping with day-use areas that some visitors enjoy before committing to overnight stays. While not free, Corps of Engineers (COE) parks like those at Lavon Lake offer more affordable camping alternatives compared to private RV parks. For truly free options, you may need to venture further from the metropolitan area into National Forests or BLM lands in other parts of Texas.
Where are the best RV parks near Garland, TX?
For RV accommodations near Garland, Lafon's RV Park stands out for its quiet setting while remaining conveniently close to Dallas, Garland, and McKinney. The newer section features gravel sites, though it currently has fewer trees. Another excellent option is Treetops RV Resort, which offers a clean, quiet environment with beautiful shade trees. Most spaces are pull-through for easy setup, and amenities include fire pits, picnic tables, clean bathhouses, and reliable laundry facilities.
Where can I find tent camping sites near Garland?
For tent camping near Garland, Hickory Creek - Lewisville Lake offers excellent options with variety in their car camping sites. Though located in a populated area, it feels remote once you're in the park. The campsites are nicely spread out with great water views. Another solid choice is Isle du Bois Campsites — Ray Roberts Lake State Park, north of the DFW Metroplex. This park provides tent sites with shade from beautiful trees and lake access, making it ideal for cooling down during hot Texas summers.
Is there a lakeshore RV resort in Garland, TX?
While Garland itself doesn't have lakefront RV resorts within city limits, several excellent options exist nearby. Cedar Hill State Park Campground on Joe Pool Lake offers over 300 wooded campsites with RV hookups just southwest of Dallas. For lakeside RV camping, Pilot Knoll Park Campground provides waterfront sites that are popular with RVers. The Vineyards Campground near Grapevine also offers premium lakefront RV sites with full hookups on Grapevine Lake, all within a reasonable drive from Garland.
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