Loyd Park in Grand Prairie offers wooded campsites with electrical and water hookups at 490 feet elevation. Located within the Cross Timbers ecological region, the park experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 95°F and mild winters where nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing. Campsites surround Joe Pool Lake with shoreline fishing access during all seasons.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling opportunities: Vineyards Campground provides watercraft rentals for exploring lake areas. "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," notes one visitor who spent time at The Vineyards Campground & Cabins.
Fishing from dedicated areas: High View Park offers elevated fishing spots with lake access. "We stayed in campsite 29 which is kind of elevated a bit and we had a great view of the lake. Even tho it rained quite a bit we still enjoyed ourselves," reports a camper at High View.
Biking on park trails: North Texas Jellystone provides extensive trail systems for cyclists. A visitor recommends: "Bring bikes! We are from Houston and I opt to drive 4 hours to this one in burleson. Waller is good fun but that park does not compare to this site."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Pilot Knoll Park offers well-separated camping areas. "We stayed in spot#5 right at the end of the cove. Calm water, large lot land area and clean, easy access to walk right into the lake to swim, and space to dock your boat make the cove side of the park an excellent score," shares a visitor to Pilot Knoll Park Campground.
Security and safety measures: Northside RV Resort provides gated security for peace of mind. "The park was very clean with four bathroom/shower rooms and laundry room as well. We visited in November and it was quiet with a nice view of the water. The park also has a gate with a code needed to enter," mentions a camper at Northside RV Resort.
Full amenities close to urban areas: High View Park maintains facilities while providing natural settings. "Local sheriff's dept and park ranger made several trips through the park which made it feel secure. Bathroom facilities were clean."
What you should know
Gate closure times: Some parks lock entrance gates after hours. "This may be a great campsite but for us it was terrible. When we arrived at 11pm the gates were locked with no one in site. Was supposed to be a one night stopover with a morning swim," warns a visitor to Highview Park.
Weather conditions affect camping quality: Seasonal rain can create challenges at some sites. "When it rains stay on the pavement as the mud is nasty and gumbo. The road is very loud and there are train tracks with train horns blaring all night long."
Limited shade at some locations: Sun exposure varies across parks. "Great views, clean sites, however there's very limited shade," notes a reviewer about Highview Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: North Texas Jellystone offers extensive play areas for children. "Several playgrounds, maze, volleyball, basketball, pond, and activities. We also visited the Waterpark that is joined to the park. The price of admission was very reasonable."
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Pilot Knoll provides safe water entry points. "There is also a small playground with slides and climbing structures across from the restrooms (lots 22-23). My youngest was super excited to see a little library set up at the playground."
Family-oriented activities: North Texas Jellystone schedules regular entertainment. "This is literally the best campground for families. There are tons of activities, games, crafts, pools, petting zoo, water park, and more."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: The Vineyards accommodates larger recreational vehicles with specialized areas. "The gold sites are worth it! All concrete sites on the water and stone encased cooking areas. Great water pressure, sewer hookups and more."
Electrical capacity planning: Consider power needs when booking sites. "Some sites are 50 amp, while all are for 30 amp. Larger rigs are more accomdated next to the lake. But call ahead to see which sites have 50 amp, you'll need it I summer time," advises a visitor to Loyd Park.
Camp store supplies: Winter glamping close to Grand Prairie, Texas benefits from on-site stores. "Front office has an extensive selection of grocery goods, supplies, firewood, etc. Sites have electricity and water, sewer dump is community spread across the grounds."