Lake Bardwell offers equestrian camping options in an area known for its rolling prairie terrain and oak-dotted shorelines. The reservoir spans 3,570 acres with water levels that fluctuate seasonally, affecting shore access at certain campgrounds. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F while spring camping often contends with thunderstorms and occasional flooding at lakeside sites.
What to do
Fishing excursions: Highview Park provides access to Lake Bardwell's fishing opportunities with designated areas for anglers. "Beautiful lake views and tons of grass. My dog loved going for runs through the grass (while on her leash)," notes Dani K. about High View.
Lakeside swimming: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas with beach access. At Liberty Hill Park Campground, "Great swimming area with beach area and large children play area. Would definitely come back here," reports Karen A.
Trail riding: For those seeking equestrian camping near Bardwell, Texas, the surrounding parks offer varied terrain for riding. Wolf Creek provides natural settings for horseback riding with "Tons of Crappie and catfish. The facilities are what you would expect from a COE park. Concrete table farily level sites and best of all easy water access," according to Dude R.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing between campsites. At Mott Park, "Another great Army Corps of Engineers Park. It is a bit neglected but still pretty awesome with its spacious sites and gorgeous views of Bardwell Lake," writes Debra M.
Peaceful atmosphere: Quieter camping locations appeal to those wanting to escape city noise. "Plenty of room to stretch out. Lots of room to walk the dog. Great atmosphere," says Mark S. about Highview Park.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. Cedar Hill State Park offers "Large park with a variety of campsites. Shaded areas available. Very clean," according to Karen B., making it ideal for nature observation.
What you should know
Gate closure times: Several campgrounds strictly enforce entry 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," warns ShaneB about Highview Park.
Insect concerns: Prepare for seasonal bug activity, particularly ants. "Fire ants and chiggers all over! But the lake was nice," reports Jill C. about Cedar Hill State Park.
Limited shade: Some lakeside sites lack adequate tree cover. "Great views, clean sites, however there's very limited shade," notes Drew about Highview Park.
Bathroom maintenance: Facility conditions vary between parks and seasons. "The bathroom in that little loop had been destroyed by vandals, but there was a really nice one the next loop over," shares Julie B. about High View.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Cedar Hill State Park Campground offers recreation facilities for children. "The park is designed with small loops for 15-20 camp sites in each loop. Very little traffic right by the individual spots. Easy in and out of park," notes Michael C.
Beach swimming areas: Dedicated swimming zones provide safer water recreation for children. "Clean lake.no broken glass.mowed grass.we love going out there and cooking.swimming.hicking.camping," mentions Elizabeth C. about Mott Park.
Security considerations: Gated campgrounds offer additional safety. "Friendly staff at check-in. 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. Local sheriff's dept and park ranger made several trips through the park which made it feel secure," shares Derrick A. about High View.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: RV campers should note the terrain variations. "Our site was level and had some shade. Spacing between sites was fine. Not to close together," reports William N. about American RV Park.
Horse-friendly hookups: Equestrian camping options near Bardwell include sites with electrical and water connections suitable for horse trailers. "There are three VOE Parks on Lake Navarrow Mills and in my personal opnion Wolf Creek Park is the best. We camped here all the time when I was a kid," shares Dude R. about Wolf Creek.
Gate access codes: Some RV parks require entry codes for security. "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," explains Iris A. about Northside RV Resort.
