Tent camping near Granbury, Texas centers around the shores of Lake Granbury, part of the Brazos River system. Several camping locations offer direct water access with elevations ranging from 690-720 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically exceed 90°F from June through September, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with daytime temperatures in the 70s and 80s.
What to do
Rock climbing at Penitentiary Hollow: Lake Mineral Wells State Park features unique rock formations about 40 miles from Granbury. "Very unique rock climbing area. Fun to watch the climbers go up and down," notes Emily M. about Primitive Area — Lake Mineral Wells State Park.
Kayaking opportunities: Lake Mineral Wells offers paddling experiences beyond swimming. "Kayaking on the lake with a little creek to paddle up at the far back left side," explains one visitor. The creek access point provides a secluded water trail for paddlers seeking quieter waters.
Fishing from shore or boat: Cedar Creek Park Campground on Lake Whitney provides access to productive fishing waters. The area features "a super clean rock bottom" lake with boat ramp access. Shore fishing is popular during spring and fall when fish are most active.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: De Cordova Bend attracts various wildlife visible from campsites. "Been coming here for 10 years. Fishing, swimming, camping, and a boat launch. Park is often very clean," states Alejandro G. about De Cordova Bend. The shoreline camping position makes wildlife observation convenient.
Water proximity: Cedar Creek Park Campground offers waterfront sites with basic amenities. According to Zoey T., "There are campsites to your right and left once you reach the water. At least 27 of them. Quiet. Spaced out. Most had grill and water access and the lake is a super clean rock bottom one." Many Cedar Creek Park Campground sites provide direct water access.
Secluded camping options: The primitive camping area at Lake Mineral Wells requires a 2.5-mile hike. As Charly S. describes, "The hike to camp was 2.5 miles with a steep downhill grade the first quarter mile. Other than the first quarter I'd say it was a very easy hike." This distance creates a buffer from day-use areas and provides solitude.
What you should know
Site availability patterns: Summer weekends fill quickly at most Granbury area campgrounds. At De Cordova Bend, "Been told by a local, off season is best as July and August are typically overful," reports Sean B. Midweek camping offers better site selection even during peak summer months.
Trail conditions vary: When hiking to primitive sites at Lake Mineral Wells, trail maintenance differs significantly between routes. One camper notes, "We took the designated 'primitive campsites' trail hiking in. The trails were well marked, but pretty overgrown at parts with a TON of spider webs. The next morning we took the Cross Timbers trail back, which despite being a little longer was faster because of how much better maintained it was."
Limited shade availability: Many campsites around Granbury lack consistent shade coverage. At De Cordova Bend, expect "Lots of sun and just a little shade, arrive early for a treed spot or bring shade awnings." Summer temperatures make shade a premium feature worth planning for.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Cedar Creek Park Campground provides family-friendly swimming. Alexandra F. mentions, "We had an amazing time with our children. You don't have to worry about dirt and glass on the ground." The rock-bottom lake offers clearer water than many Texas lakes.
Activity options: Lake Mineral Wells State Park provides diverse recreation beyond just camping. Jamey W. explains, "LMWSP has tons of activities for the family. You can spend the day exploring and climbing the rock formations, bring climbing gear if you plan to get to the top. You can also spend your day on the water, swimming on the beach, fishing from a pier or exploring the shoreline by kayak."
Consider noise levels: Group camping can impact the noise environment. One family camping at Lake Mineral Wells noted, "The Boy Scouts love this campground! Late into our first night, 4 Boy Scout troops rolled in. We were awakened the next morning to lots of kids yelling and 1 even playing a bugle."
Tips from RVers
Limited services at primitive sites: Most tent camping near Granbury lacks substantial RV hookups. At Cedar Creek, Sean B. notes the area offers "Water at most and firerings are provided next to covered picnic tables. Quiet, lots of wildlife, has boat ramp and dock as well as large shelter house with bbq for days use by larger groups." Most campgrounds provide only the basics.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have confusing access roads. According to one camper at Cedar Creek, "Definitely ignore google to get here though... just follow the road to the end (no turning off)." Local signage often proves more reliable than GPS directions in rural camping areas.
Alternate RV options: For those seeking more amenities, Mustang - Bear Creek Campground near Fort Worth offers both tent and RV camping options approximately 45 minutes from Granbury. This location provides drinking water while maintaining a natural setting.
