Best Campgrounds near Garland, TX

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.

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. 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.

Best Camping Sites Near Garland, Texas (160)

    1. East Fork Park Campground

    11 Reviews
    Wylie, TX
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (972) 442-3141

    $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."

    2. Plantation Place

    3 Reviews
    Sunnyvale, TX
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (469) 846-9839

    $63 - $81 / night

    3. COE Lavon Lake Lavonia

    8 Reviews
    Wylie, TX
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (972) 442-3141

    $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."

    4. Cedar Hill State Park Campground

    62 Reviews
    Cedar Hill, TX
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (972) 291-3900

    $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."

    5. Hickory Creek - Lewisville Lake

    32 Reviews
    Lake Dallas, TX
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (469) 645-9100

    $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."

    6. Hidden Cove Park & Marina

    17 Reviews
    The Colony, TX
    25 miles
    Website

    "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."

    7. Clear Lake Park

    1 Review
    Lavon Lake, TX
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (972) 442-3141

    8. Lavon Oaks RV Park

    1 Review
    Fate, TX
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (469) 428-7468

    $18 - $23 / night

    9. Collin Park

    1 Review
    Wylie, TX
    10 miles

    10. The Vineyards Campground & Cabins

    18 Reviews
    Grapevine, TX
    27 miles
    Website

    "Pros: Well maintained, great layout, great location, on the water. Cons: My only criticism is that our site positioned the sewer connection uphill from our trailer. A bit tough to use."

    "Immediate access to the lake and a beautiful view! A great little escape from the city."

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Recent Reviews near Garland, TX

516 Reviews of 160 Garland Campgrounds


  • aThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Loyd Park

    Quiet and Serene

    We stayed here for four nights and it was a welcome retreat after staying in mini RV parks. Our spot was number 184. Not right on the water, but we can see the water from one of our windows. If we came back here again and we couldn’t get right on the water. I would choose a site with more shade like site number 190 has lots of shade.We’re here in October so it’s pretty warm. The hookups work well and the place is very well-maintained. I haven’t tried the public restrooms as our RV restroom is fine. I would definitely come back here again.

  • janet S.
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Canton I-20 RV Park

    Easy to Get to, Cheap to Stay

    No complaints, best park I've seen in this area. 

    Very well maintained, large spaces, picnic tables, nice clean pool, clean laundry room and all machines working. 

    Good job.

    15 mins to Buccees :-)

  • janet S.
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Canton I-20 RV Park

    Easy to get to. Cheap to Stay.

    No complaints, best park I've seen in this area. Very well maintained, large spaces, picnic tables, nice clean pool, clean laundry room and all machines working. 

    Good job.

  • rspillers84
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Canton I-20 RV Park

    SUPER EASY ACCESS - VERY AFFORDABLE - CLOSE TO BUCCEES

    Canton I-20 RV Park is a solid spot right off the interstate. The sites are large, easy to pull into, and each one has a picnic table which makes it nice to sit outside. 

    It’s quiet for being so close to I-20, and the park feels open and well kept. 

    They’ve got a pool, showers, and restrooms that are clean and maintained, plus free laundry, which is a big bonus if you’re staying long term. 

    Utilities are included in the rent, so the price is straightforward. It’s not a resort, but it’s a comfortable, practical place to stay whether you’re traveling through or sticking around for work in the area.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Cedar Hill State Park Campground

    Not too impressed

    We arrived after hours after calling and instructed to just go to our campsite. The park had absolutely no signs indicating where the campground is. We were surprised to find a very sloping site with the cement bumpers missing rebar and very unsafe. No after hours phone number and no campground host. Is this any way to run a campground? We flagged down another camper who indicated that three sites were available when he checked in a couple of hours earlier. This is the first time that we encountered something like this in our years of camping. No one here to answer questions….sites in terrible disrepair still being represented as safe. We had to replace in the hopes that someone would not arrive to claim their site. In the morning we experienced pounding on our door to be challenged by armed…yes, they had guns, officers questioning why we were “squatting” Needless to say this campground is very disorganized and needs an after hours emergency phone number, campground host, safety inspections, as well as a manager who cares.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2025

    The Vineyards

    A must stay!!!

    In a very nice campground with spacious FHU sites that are concrete pads and level. Great views of the lake. A well equipped campground store with lots of items. Clean large bathrooms and showers as well as a laundry room. Have events throughout the week for social activities for adults and kids. Great hosts and a very well kept campground. Definitely a place to stay overnight or a week.

  • Cyn T.
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Lake Park Campground

    Quiet and Peaceful

    Check in was simple. Kasey and Shane are wonderful. Convenient to the lake. Easy access to stores and I 35. There is a parking lot for your boat or jet skis within the campground. The sites for 30 amp and smaller campers are closer to the water. 50 amp and larger campers are in the shade. I am not certain of fees for park entry. Website says that day use area is included in the amenities, but had to pay the entry fee yesterday.

  • Bobbie S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Patriot RV Park

    Comfortable stay

    Stayed for two months for my husband's work. Park manager, Becky, was helpful and nice. They have a saltwater pool, dog park, laundry room, shower/bathrooms, trees/landscaping and access to a boat ramp. Some sites are a bit tight. We were in the top part of the campground and had no issues with it being real wet. Have heard that the lower area does have pooling of water with heavy rain. It does go away quickly, but should be aware of this if you have lots of outside things or a pet. Would stay here again.

  • Dan W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2025

    The Vineyards Campground & Cabins

    Beautiful & well maintained

    Great place to spend the week. Swim beach, playground, everything you could need. Cleanest bathrooms and showers.


Guide to Garland

Camping near Garland, Texas, offers a great escape into nature without straying too far from the city. With several campgrounds nearby, you can enjoy outdoor activities, relax by the water, and make lasting memories with family and friends.

What to do

  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Lake Tawakoni State Park Campground, provide excellent fishing spots. One visitor mentioned, "If you like boating or fishing, this park would be great for you."
  • Hiking: Trails are abundant, especially at Ray Roberts Lake State Park - Johnson Branch. A camper shared, "The camp was clean and well-kept. Beautiful views and easy check-in process."
  • Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing dip at campgrounds like Hickory Creek - Lewisville Lake, which has a nice beach area. One reviewer noted, "There is a really nice, large picnic area for day pass folks, and a nice big sandy swimming beach."

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Cedar Hill State Park Campground remarked, "The staff was very friendly and helpful. The park is maintained well."
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites that provide privacy. A camper at Isle du Bois - Ray Roberts Lake State Park mentioned, "The campground is nice and well maintained and sites are well spaced with lots of grass, trees and/or open areas."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. One reviewer at Hickory Creek - Lewisville Lake said, "The gate attendant was very friendly and helpful."

What you should know

  • Limited cell service: Some campgrounds, like Hidden Cove Park & Marina, have poor cell reception. A visitor noted, "For T-Mobile, service is not good enough for work or streaming."
  • Entrance fees: Many parks charge daily fees. For example, Lake Tawakoni State Park Campground has a fee of $5 per person for day use, which can add up.
  • Weather considerations: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. A camper at Cedar Hill State Park Campground mentioned, "Some sites muddy" due to rain.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose kid-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities for children. One parent at Vineyards Campground & Cabins said, "An amazing playground for our kids, a beach, golf cart rentals."
  • Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A visitor at Purtis Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "Great hiking and great place for tents."
  • Pack snacks: Keep snacks handy for hungry little ones. A camper at Hickory Creek - Lewisville Lake noted, "Restroom facilities are clean," which is a plus for family trips.

Tips from RVers

  • Check site amenities: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Johnson Branch - Ray Roberts Lake State Park mentioned, "Clean grounds, bathroom, showers. Firewood for sale."
  • Bring extra cables: Some sites may require longer cables for electrical connections. A camper at Cedar Hill State Park Campground noted, "Most modern RV's electrical connection in the back (30-foot cable just reached)."
  • Arrive early: Get to the campground early to secure a good spot. A visitor at Hickory Creek - Lewisville Lake said, "The campground was completely full, but we enjoyed our overnight stay."

Camping around Garland, TX, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway.

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.