Best Campgrounds near Hillsboro, TX

The Lake Whitney area near Hillsboro, Texas features multiple established campgrounds offering diverse camping accommodations. Lake Whitney State Park provides tent, RV, and cabin options with both primitive and developed sites. Nearby campgrounds like Thousand Trails Lake Whitney, McCown Valley Park, and Cedar Creek Park Campground expand the camping possibilities with lakefront locations and varying amenity levels. Several Army Corps of Engineers parks around Lake Whitney maintain campgrounds with water and electric hookups, while a number of private RV parks cater to travelers seeking full hookups and additional amenities.

Campground accessibility remains good throughout most of the year, though summer heat can make tent camping challenging from June through August. Many Lake Whitney campgrounds require reservations, especially during holiday weekends and the popular spring and fall seasons. Weather patterns affect camping conditions, with potential thunderstorms in spring and occasional flooding that impacts lakeside sites. Lake levels fluctuate seasonally, which can alter shoreline camping experiences. Winter temperatures typically remain mild but can occasionally dip below freezing. "The lake front sites are perfectly located with access to the lake but not too far from hard stand bathrooms and showers," noted one camper about McCown Valley Park.

Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with Lake Whitney's multiple parks offering various water access points. Campers particularly appreciate the shaded sites at Lake Whitney State Park, which provide relief during hot Texas summers. Several visitors mentioned the dark sky viewing opportunities at many of the campgrounds, making stargazing a popular nighttime activity. The region's campgrounds vary in privacy levels, with some offering well-spaced sites while others have more open layouts. A recent review highlighted that "Quiet campground with no highway noise. There is no gate closure overnight. This is an excellent dark sky campground." Fishing access constitutes a major draw for many visitors, with multiple parks featuring boat ramps, fishing piers, and shoreline access points designed specifically for anglers.

Best Camping Sites Near Hillsboro, Texas (139)

    1. Lake Whitney State Park Campground

    26 Reviews
    Whitney, TX
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 694-3793

    $14 - $50 / night

    "It has been raining non stop all over Texas. I began to look for places within 2 hours of Fort Worth. Texas State Parks are a great. I settled on Lake Whitney."

    "This park is a great go-to if you live in Texas – centrally located and quick to access from most major cities."

    2. Thousand Trails Lake Whitney

    8 Reviews
    Whitney, TX
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "The lake access is not close to every hook ups but is a short driving distance. Lake access/swimming area is very nice, we had fun!"

    "Love the location, so close to Dallas! This park is so quite and very dark at night!"

    3. McCown Valley Park

    10 Reviews
    Whitney, TX
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 622-3332

    $16 - $45 / night

    "The hidden gem of Lake Whitney. Tent sites are tucked in the back of the park away from foot traffic and most vehicles."

    "I had a spot right next to the lake where I kayaked, biked, and just walked with the dogs. Highly recommend!"

    4. Hill side RV Park

    1 Review
    Hillsboro, TX
    4 miles
    +1 (940) 442-8160

    $425 / night

    5. Lofers Bend West

    6 Reviews
    Whitney, TX
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 622-3332

    $16 - $80 / night

    "This is one of the better COE campgrounds on Lake Whitney."

    "We stayed at site 63 which is right on lake edge. Amazing sunsets. Across inlet from boat ramp. The sites have covered picnic tables with both fire pits with grates and stand up covered grills."

    6. North Crest RV Park

    17 Reviews
    Waco, TX
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 799-3963

    $45 - $65 / night

    "This is a very nice park that is located next to Interstate 35, so expect some highway noise. That doesn't bother us, and we had a lovely stay."

    "We were looking for a simple place to stop overnight after driving all day toward Brownsville."

    7. Cedron Creek

    6 Reviews
    Whitney, TX
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 622-3332

    $28 - $140 / night

    "Cedron Creek park set off Lake Whitney , outside of Whitney , TX . We had lot 27 , the back of the loop. Kinda secluded. Threw out corn and the deer come in and feed along with squirrels ."

    "Some sites are a little close together and not many are close to water."

    8. Cedar Creek Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    Whitney Lake, TX
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 694-3189

    "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 had grill and water access and the lake is a super clean rock bottom one. Super peaceful."

    9. Steele Creek Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Whitney Lake, TX
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 622-3332

    "We enjoyed this free campsite as we were making our way down to San Antonio, Texas. It had a water spicket, which was perfect for nomad living."

    "* Water facets near most sites.

    Most sites a quite private with trees between them. There are 2 bathrooms, and a porta-potty. 2 boat ramps, and pavilions over the picnic tables."

    10. Liberty Hill Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    Bardwell, TX
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 578-1431

    $18 - $95 / night

    "Lake Navarro Mills is well know as the best Crappie fishing lake in Texas."

    "No trails to hike on but plenty of good roads to walk. Very peaceful!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 139 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Hillsboro, TX

586 Reviews of 139 Hillsboro Campgrounds



Guide to Hillsboro

Camping near Hillsboro, Texas, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakeside spots to family-friendly parks, there’s something for everyone looking to escape into nature.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy casting a line. At Cedar Hill State Park Campground, one visitor mentioned, "We got a primitive campsite right on the water and we’re able to fish a little bit once we arrived."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Texas Dinosaur Valley State Park. A reviewer noted, "The trails are great for any exercise level, and there always seems to be something new to see while hiking."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife. One camper at Lake Whitney State Park Campground shared, "Family and pet friendly. Wind off of the lake was amazing, bathrooms were clean and nice to use."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Texas Meridian State Park said, "The bathrooms, and all other buildings are fairly new and very nice."
  • Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of park staff. One camper at Mother Neff State Park Campground mentioned, "Staff were all friendly. There were some nice shortish trails that worked well for our dogs."
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful landscapes. A reviewer at Fort Parker State Park Campground noted, "Always clean, quiet and very friendly staff."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell coverage in some areas. A visitor at Texas Dinosaur Valley State Park mentioned, "Pretty crappy cell service in our site."
  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Cleburne State Park Campground advised, "It is quite busy on the weekends being so close to civilization, so make reservations in advance."
  • Weather Considerations: Be ready for changing weather conditions. One camper at Lake Whitney State Park Campground shared, "I thought the wildflowers were the greatest feature, and then we caught sight of an angelic band of pelicans just overhead on a migratory flight."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for parks with playgrounds and organized activities. A family at North Texas Jellystone said, "Well maintained, tons of activities for our 5yr old grandson."
  • Safety First: Ensure kids are safe near roads. One reviewer noted, "The playground is adjacent to the main road in the campground and vehicles do not stop at stop signs."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep everyone happy with snacks on hand. A camper at Loyd Park mentioned, "Have visited several times, we purchased a park pass as they charge a daily fee of $10 per vehicle."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Texas Meridian State Park noted, "The sites are a bit tight for a big rig and not much space as other state parks."
  • Bring Long Cords: Some sites may require longer electrical cords. A camper at Cedar Hill State Park Campground mentioned, "Water pressure was 50 psi, sewer hookup was close, but electrical box was in the front."
  • Dump Station Availability: Check for dump station locations before you arrive. A reviewer at Texas Lake Whitney State Park Campground shared, "Dump station works great and the gal at the gate was super sweet."

Camping near Hillsboro, Texas, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Hillsboro, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, Hillsboro, TX offers a wide range of camping options, with 139 campgrounds and RV parks near Hillsboro, TX and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Hillsboro, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Hillsboro, TX is Lake Whitney State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 26 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Hillsboro, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Hillsboro, TX.

What parks are near Hillsboro, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 parks near Hillsboro, TX that allow camping, notably Whitney Lake and Navarro Mills Lake.