Grapevine Lake spans 7,280 acres with 60 miles of shoreline near Dallas-Fort Worth. The lake reaches depths up to 65 feet and maintains year-round camping options despite summer temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F from June through September. Winter camping remains viable with daily highs typically in the 50-60°F range, though occasional cold fronts can bring freezing temperatures.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Pilot Knoll Park Campground, lake access is excellent for anglers. "Lots of large back in spots with 50/30 amp plugs, water hook ups, fire pit and picnic table. Many spots have direct access to the lake to launch a kayak or SUP, boat launch in the day use area," notes camper Michael H.
Hiking trails: Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch offers extensive trail networks around the water. "Very nice state park, not near as busy as Isle Du Bois. The beach area at Johnson Branch is not as nice as Isle Du Bois, but everything else is very similar," explains Kerry C. The park maintains trails that showcase native Texas plants.
Kayaking access: Several lakefront sites provide direct water entry points for small watercraft. Joshua M. from Pilot Knoll Park describes, "I really enjoyed how well kept the grounds were and did love the open space between sites and the water, giving lots of space for the kids to play. Really pretty views."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Loyd Park consistently receives praise for maintenance. "This city run park is one of our favorites, and only minutes from our home. All sites are paved, several are lake front, and the majority of them are well shaded," shares Randy H. The park features full hookup sites with water and electricity.
Yurt camping options: Loyd Park offers yurt accommodations as an alternative to traditional camping. "Tested out our new camper for the first time - loved this campground, even in the winter! Front office has an extensive selection of grocery goods, supplies, firewood, etc.," reports David G. Yurt camping at Grapevine Lake provides solid structures with more weather protection than tents.
Site spacing: Many campers appreciate the distance between sites. "We stayed at site 190. It's at end of road with privacy. Our only complaint on this site is when it rains, water pours into site and erodes area quickly and will fill your mat etc with orange clay," notes TJ & Laura S. from Loyd Park. Most lakeside camping areas maintain buffer zones between sites.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer and weekends. At The Vineyards Campground & Cabins, advance planning is essential. "Check-in was very easy, sites were very clean and well maintained, playground was amazing with an awesome 'roller-coaster' swing that the teenagers even loved," mentions Joie S.
Weather patterns: Spring brings potential flooding concerns, while summer heat demands preparation. Winter camping remains viable but requires layering. "The temperature difference is quite noticeable the closer you are to the breeze coming off the water," observes Monica C. at Pilot Knoll Park.
Security measures: Most campgrounds implement controlled access. Andrew B. notes at The Vineyards, "Great security visible as well as a coded gate after hours." Similar systems exist at other lakeside parks to maintain camper safety.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: North Texas Jellystone caters specifically to families with multiple play areas. "This is literally the best campground for families. There are tons of activities, games, crafts, pools, petting zoo, water park, and more," shares Lauren Z. The park schedules regular children's activities throughout peak seasons.
Swimming areas: Designated swimming beaches provide safer water access than random shoreline entry. Joie S. mentions, "Immediate access to the lake and a beautiful view! A great little escape from the city."
Multi-generational activities: Look for campgrounds with varied recreation options. "This typically isn't our type of park but the kids enjoyed it. We went in October and they had some fun Halloween activities," reports Lizabeth T. about North Texas Jellystone. Many parks offer seasonal themed weekends.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Cowtown RV Park features level concrete pads ideal for easy setup. "Level concrete camp spots. The FHUs were in good working order," reports John T. Most campgrounds around Grapevine Lake offer concrete or gravel pads rather than bare earth sites.
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary significantly between parks. "Our site was a full service, pull through, partially shaded site that was reserved by the dealership for new owners. It was a nice, level site, great for first-timers," shares Lisa H. about Denton North KOA.
Seasonal considerations: Fall and spring offer milder temperatures with fewer crowds. Robert T. notes, "The facility is a bit dated, reminds me of the parks my family traveled to when I was a kid, but clean and accommodating."
