Camping sites near Forney, Texas center around Lavon Lake to the north and Cedar Creek Lake to the south, with most options within a 30-mile radius. The region's clay soil can create drainage issues after rain, especially during spring thunderstorms when many parks experience temporary flooding. Winter camping remains comfortable with average lows rarely dropping below 35°F, making year-round camping viable at most facilities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cedar Hill State Park offers shoreline fishing with multiple species available. As one camper notes, "This state park has both walking and biking trails galore. None of the trails were too hard for a seven and nine year old but were long enough that they were fun and a good workout."
Water recreation: East Fork Park Campground provides direct lake access for boating. "Great views of the water and wildflowers in the meadows. Reasonable price. Everything works and the shaded picnic tables are a plus," explains one visitor who enjoyed the lake views.
Hiking trails: The Range Vintage Trailer Resort features walking paths around the property. According to a guest, "The owners went all out in developing the property to provide an incredible experience for their guests. You'll be blown away and appreciate their attention to detail... there are hiking trails all around the property."
Wildlife viewing: Lake Tawakoni State Park has various bird watching spots near the shoreline. One visitor shared, "Last time I was here it was fall and the leaves had changed and birds were everywhere. I didn't encounter very many people so, it felt like a had the place to myself. Walked along the shoreline and captured several pictures of the birds who were visiting."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Bluebonnet Ridge RV Park in Terrell offers well-maintained camping spots. A camper describes, "Anytime someone left, or a spot was empty, new gravel was being dumped and leveled. Even though closed for Covid, the pool was cleaned daily. There's a small dog park area."
Privacy options: The Range Vintage Trailer Resort provides secluded camping experiences. One reviewer observed, "At first glance you could think that this park may be lacking in privacy considering all of the amenities. We found the exact opposite to be true... The first thing we noticed was how far apart the sites are, and they offer plenty of privacy."
Pet-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds welcome dogs with dedicated areas. A visitor to Bluebonnet Ridge RV Park appreciated that "Doggie bags were provided in multiple places, and ample trash cans in which to drop them. LOTS of room to walk the dog!"
Lake views: East Fork Park Campground provides waterfront camping with boat access. "Every single site has a unique view of the lake, even those high up on the circular arrangement," notes one camper who enjoyed the setting despite some maintenance issues.
What you should know
Grass maintenance issues: Several Corps of Engineers parks struggle with lawn care during peak growing season. A visitor to COE Lavon Lake Lavonia reported, "Great campground, electric and water. Only issue is the grass is always one high so bring a weed whip. We have family in the area, so we visit regularly and every time we stay here the grass is ridiculous."
Road conditions: Some parks have deteriorating internal roads. At East Fork Park, a camper warned, "The roads are horrible! The sites weren't bad and ours was pretty level. The location is nice on the lake with lots of sail boats sailing by."
Limited facilities: Some campgrounds lack expected amenities. At Plantation Place, a visitor cautioned, "WARNING: NO BATHROOMS, NO SHOWERS. Quiet park with easy access to Dallas. Nice dog walking area and dog park. Full hookups. I get that RVs have bathrooms and most have showers, but never in all my years have I been to a park with no bathrooms or showers."
Seasonal insect challenges: Fire ants and chiggers can be problematic in warmer months. At Lake Tawakoni State Park, a camper mentioned, "Come prepared to battle the ants. We were overcome in our trailer with thousands of ants the first night, which has never happened before. We got them under control with spray after two days."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom considerations: Cedar Hill State Park Campground offers private bathroom facilities. A parent appreciated that "In the loop bathroom they have individual rooms that have toilet and shower with a high lock. Really awesome if you are using shower with toddlers."
Swimming options: Several parks feature dedicated swimming areas. At Lake Tawakoni State Park, a visitor noted, "The park has an ample sand beach area and the facilities are clean and in good repair."
Trail difficulty ratings: Choose appropriate hiking paths based on children's ages. A family who visited Cedar Hill State Park shared, "None of the trails were too hard for a seven and nine year old but were long enough that they were fun and a good workout."
Off-season benefits: Consider camping during school months for quieter experiences. One visitor to Lake Tawakoni observed, "Fall has its advantages. The park was nearly vacant and it was easy to pay at the box since I had arrived late in the day."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature uneven sites requiring preparation. At COE Lavon Lake Lavonia, a camper advised, "Our site was very unlevel on the hill, so bring your chocks."
Internet connectivity: Lavon Oaks RV Park and other locations offer varying Wi-Fi quality. At Bluebonnet Ridge RV Park, a long-term visitor explained, "The WiFi, while available, is really slow. When you connect, they track usage by hardware MAC address. Use too much, you get blocked and have to ask to be allowed back on."
Winter camping viability: The moderate climate allows for year-round RV camping. A visitor to Rockin' Sunset RV Resort shared, "Stayed nights with no issues. Easy on/off I20. Some concrete sites but gravel spots were fine. Clean and well kept. Will definitely stay again."
Site spacing: Parks vary greatly in site separation. At East Fork Park, a camper observed, "The sites are well spaced and are 'mostly' paved with aging asphalt. The roads are in need of repair, with numerous potholes, some very large."
