State parks and lakeside campgrounds surround Bedford, Texas, creating a diverse camping landscape within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Cedar Hill State Park, located about 30 minutes southwest, offers over 300 wooded sites with both primitive hike-in areas and modern facilities along Joe Pool Lake. Nearby Loyd Park in Grand Prairie provides year-round camping with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals in a shaded setting. The region includes several Corps of Engineers campgrounds on area lakes, including Hickory Creek on Lewisville Lake and Pilot Knoll Park, which feature electrical hookups, water access, and boat ramps. Most campgrounds within 30 minutes of Bedford balance suburban convenience with natural settings.
Reservations are essential at most established campgrounds, particularly during summer months and holiday weekends when lakeside sites fill quickly. The climate presents challenges with hot, humid summers where temperatures regularly exceed 95°F from June through September. As one camper noted, "Even though it's in a highly populated area, it feels very remote when you get into the park." Occasional severe weather, including thunderstorms and high winds, can impact camping experiences, particularly in spring. Many campgrounds experience ambient noise from nearby highways and the Dallas-Fort Worth airport, though sites deeper within parks offer more seclusion. Cell service remains strong throughout the area, making these campgrounds suitable for remote workers.
Lakefront access represents a significant draw for campers in the Bedford area. "The location of this campground feels secluded from the city but close to the highway so you can be in the city within a few minutes drive," reported one visitor to Hickory Creek Park. Most campgrounds feature well-maintained facilities with clean restrooms and showers. Shade becomes a premium commodity during summer months, with tree-covered sites booking first. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist even in these suburban settings, with deer commonly spotted at Ray Roberts Lake State Park and waterfowl abundant at many lakeside locations. The proximity to urban amenities means campers can easily access restaurants, shopping, and entertainment while maintaining a camping experience.
$25 - $30 / night
"They offer water access, electricity, are near facilities, have tables and fire pits. Many of the sites overlook the lake or have easy access to the lake."
"Lake is nearby, and fishing permits in Tx are cheap and easy to grab online. Fairly quiet, but the sites themselves are private a shaded for the most part."
"Pros: Well maintained, great layout, great location, on the water. Cons: My only criticism is that our site positioned the sewer connection uphill from our trailer. A bit tough to use."
"Immediate access to the lake and a beautiful view! A great little escape from the city."
$14 - $30 / night
"Location: The location is tucked away in the small lakeside town of Hickory Creek...which is surrounded by Denton to the north and Lewisville/Dallas to the south."
"The location of this campground feels secluded from the city but close to the highway so you can be in the city within a few minutes drive."
$17 / night
"Loyd Park is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to escape the city and enjoy the natural beauty of Texas. "
"The park at lakeside had recently flooded but we were not there to go to the water and our site was not effected at all."
"This location has all your needs for as long of a stay you ever need. Propane refill station, fuel station, a store, hair shop, laundry mat, showers and restrooms."
"An exceptional location that offers everything required for a comfortable stay as well as a vibrant flea market! ehallpass"
"My two boys 4/5 had a blast at the site, walking the trails, and finding spots to throw rocks into the lake."
"Lake front, kayak rentals with a great cove to paddle around in. Walking trails galore. Nice bathrooms, with showers."
"My boys jumped in the pool even though it was 55* outside and said it was a fun experience."
"Truly a great place for the money and close to anything you would ever need."
"Came here for a couple weeks till I can get into a location for long term. Very friendly people and felt very safe and secure in the park"
$14 / night
"great site, just wish it was a little farther away from all the city lights. but well maintained"
"The only caveat to the site is that it is right next to a Marina, so there are boats coming and going and partying going on which didn't bother us but just be aware. "
$20 - $35 / night
"It’s close to my home but makes me feel like I’m camping far away from home. Lots of trees, many spots right on the water, great kayak launch, has hiking trails and decent distance between sites."
"Nice RV sites, close to the water. Campground close to town but away from the noise. Nice boat ramp/dock and day use areas too. Recently renovated bathrooms. Staff friendly."
GuideNice park. Could use some updates. Especially the shower houses. Park layout and lake access is great. Several sites are water adjacent. Staff is all very friendly and helpful.
ScoutThe site is not easily accessible. Maybe they are doing work in the area???
TravelerLovely campground, not very tight to maneuver around. Mostly seasonal people and you may need to go on a waiting list. The bonus is being able to wash your RV here.
GuideBuckle up for a long review! 😂 I stayed at Hidden Cove Park in February for 1 night with 2 kids; and I’d give it a solid 4/5. I would go back for sure.
Overall, this spot is really nice. The campsites are clean, spacious, and you’ve got plenty to choose from. Being close to the lake is a big plus — you can walk right down and fish along the banks, and the view is just calm and peaceful. Although the strong wind prevented any real fishing.
The setup is convenient too. Water spigot right at the site, table already there, bathrooms close by and decently clean. Trash dumpster is near the bathrooms so you do t have to haul your trash out.
Now Here’s the reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5…
Privacy is the biggest downside. Campsites are pretty close together, so you’re definitely gonna see and hear your neighbors. I had some loud neighbors and had to ask them to turn the music down. Then at 12:01 AM… same folks fired up an electric saw to cut firewood which for sure messed up my rest. 🤦🏾♂️
Not really the park’s fault, but the layout doesn’t give you much separation, so your experience kinda depends on who’s around you. Just hope you get quiet neighbors.
I gotta mention the price for those wondering. It’s $25/night (which is actually good for the amenities you’re getting), but parking is an additional $20. I don’t understand that but OK. With all the fees, my total was $70. Plus $5-6 firewood. Just an FYI.
Another thing — since the parking lot is close, you’ll see headlights shining through at night when cars pass. Not a dealbreaker, just something to know.
On the flip side, the closeness to the parking lot is actually clutch. I could literally see my car through the trees, and it was only like a 2–3 minute walk. Made it super easy to haul stuff. I even blew up my air mattresses at the car and just carried them over.
I also liked the concrete driveway and sidewalks — my daughter was out there skating, which was a cool unexpected bonus.
No bugs at all while I was there, which was a win. It was too windy to fish, but the kids still had a great time. They’ve got a basketball court, volleyball area, and a hiking trail (didn’t hit it this time).
The restaurant was closed — not a big deal, but would’ve been nice. They do sell firewood at the front for a good price though, which is convenient.
And honestly, one of the best parts… it’s only like 15 minutes from home, but it feels like a world away. That alone makes it a great little reset spot.
This is a GREAT place for first-time campers, and families, or even solo trips if you just want to get away for a bit.
LegendStayed in the Lakeside Loop. Very private patio areas. Large park. Pay close attention to site lengths. No margin for error. Swim beach, multiple boat ramps, perch pond and lots of day sites.
GuideI stayed at Wild Plum campsite #124 at Isle du Bois and honestly… 5/5. I’d definitely go back.
The overall vibe was solid. The campsite itself was clean, spacious, and felt semi-private. You can see and hear neighbors a bit, but it’s not crowded or on top of each other. Just know it’s not fully secluded. The lake view was really nice, and there are several little fishing spots around the Wild Plum area. Plus, plenty of trails nearby if you want to get out and walk.
Each site out there has its own little vibe depending on where it sits, but they’re all pretty roomy and well laid out.
A couple things to be aware of…
The walk from the parking lot to the campsite is no joke. It’s gravel, rocks, and some incline. If you’re bringing a lot of gear, you’ll definitely want a cart. I didn’t expect that part.
The toilet situation… yeah, I didn’t use it. It’s a primitive setup with no plumbing, and it was pretty rough. That said, it’s expected for this type of campsite. If you need a better option, you can go up to the pier — those bathrooms have actual plumbing and are way cleaner.
No showers or water at the site either. There is a water spigot near the pier if you need to refill, and you’ll have to drive your trash up to the dumpsters.
Weather-wise, it was super windy when I went (early March), and campsites closer to the water definitely catch that wind. Also, not a lot of shade since the trees didn’t have leaves yet, so keep that in mind depending on the time of year.
On the positive side, I saw a lot of deer in the mornings, which was a really nice touch. No bugs during my stay (I did use a fogger), and the overall environment was peaceful. The park staff was also super duper friendly and helpful, which always makes the experience better.
Also worth noting — there are stores not too far from the park (like Dollar General), which came in clutch. I actually had to grab some super glue to fix a hole in my air mattress, so it’s good knowing you’re not too far from supplies if something goes wrong.
I went solo, and it was honestly the perfect little reset—quiet, scenic, and just enough nature without being too rough.
Good for solo campers, couples, or even families if you’re cool with primitive camping.
ScoutFree for up to 14 days! Find a spot and park! The site we found it big, nobody around and has a fire pit! We are in a class c
ScoutGreat sites close to the water.
Scoutso close to everything stayed a month manger so helpful covered spots family friendly
Camping options near Bedford, TX provide a mix of suburban convenience and outdoor recreation within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Most sites sit at elevations between 500-600 feet with mild winters allowing year-round camping opportunities. The spring camping season brings wildflower displays along trails and shorelines, particularly in April when bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush create colorful landscapes throughout camping areas.
Fishing access options: Hickory Creek Park offers multiple fishing spots with both shoreline access and boat ramps. "We hopped over for a one night trip and had a blast! Our site was right off the water with a fun view (at night) of the lake Lewisville bridge," reports Joshua M., who camped with young children at Hickory Creek - Lewisville Lake.
Hiking trails: Twin Coves Park features several well-maintained hiking paths suitable for various skill levels. "Twin coves is my favorite park. It has great hiking, a nice kayak launch and new, clean bathrooms," notes Susan T., who appreciates the trail system despite some sites lacking shade.
Water recreation: The Vineyards Campground provides rentals and access points for water activities. "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," shares Natalie S., who also mentioned her children caught substantial catfish from the fishing dock.
Shaded sites: Treetops RV Resort offers extensive tree cover throughout the property. "Just one persons opinion, but this place is one of our favorite in the Metroplex. All of the amenities you would want in a park, plus lots and lots of trees," reports Troy, who appreciated the natural shade during hot Texas summers at Treetops RV Resort.
Space between campsites: Hickory Creek Park provides well-separated camping areas. "A lot of space between sites, well level and paved, family oriented, very quite, beautiful lake and tree sites, lighted power supply post with all the amps available," notes Reynolds O., highlighting the privacy campers experience.
Waterfront locations: Pilot Knoll Park features premium lakeside camping options. "Nice RV sites, close to the water. Campground close to town but away from the noise," says Darla I., who considers the park her "happy place" and recommends booking well in advance as sites at Pilot Knoll Park - Lake Lewisville fill quickly.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for weekend stays. "We came to stay for 2 days, but had to leave a day early and return home from our road trip due to landing gear issues. They refunded us for the night - wasn't expecting it!" reports Callie F. about the Dallas/Arlington KOA, noting their helpful reservation policies.
Insect considerations: Cedar Hill State Park may have seasonal pest issues. "Nice lake but there were fire ants and chiggers all over our campsite!" warns Jill C., suggesting campers bring appropriate insect repellent and protective gear when visiting Cedar Hill State Park Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Pilot Knoll Park sometimes experiences crow activity near trash areas. "I did try to stay for a Sunday thru Tuesday reservation. It must have been a big weekend prior because I believe the trash was full to the hilt which resulted in hundreds of black, loud, obnoxious and aggressive crows," cautions Susan T., who ended up cutting her trip short.
Playgrounds: Loyd Park offers dedicated children's areas throughout the grounds. "This park is run by the City Grand Prairie, which provides a lot of safety. Campsites are a little close together nearest the water but probably the best sites in the Park. We spent three days there swimming and hiking around," reports Myc C. about camping at Loyd Park with family.
Swimming areas: The Vineyards Campground includes a designated swim beach for safer water access. "Great place to spend the week. Swim beach, playground, everything you could need. Cleanest bathrooms and showers," notes Dan W., highlighting the family-friendly amenities.
Kid-friendly activities: Twin Coves Park rents kayaks suitable for family outings. "The cabins are well equipped with granite countertop kitchens even!" mentions Susan T., who appreciated the various accommodation options for families with different comfort needs.
Site leveling: Treetops RV Resort provides well-maintained, level sites. "The park was well maintained and had lots of amenities. Quite the community feel. Our spot was 171 and was very well shaded, the only thing is our trailer was level but we felt like we were leaning back," notes Sybel P., who mentioned staff helped them back in as newer RVers.
Water pressure considerations: Pilot Knoll Park may have strong water pressure at hookups. "I found the water pressure too strong for my class b as the pressure caused a link under my sink. Convinced me to purchase my own water pressure resistor gauge," advises Chris P., suggesting RVers bring pressure regulators when camping at this location.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Bedford, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, Bedford, TX offers a wide range of camping options, with 196 campgrounds and RV parks near Bedford, TX and 5 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Bedford, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Bedford, TX is Cedar Hill State Park Campground with a 3.8-star rating from 64 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bedford, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Bedford, TX.
What parks are near Bedford, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 20 parks near Bedford, TX that allow camping, notably Grapevine Lake and Lewisville Lake.
Keep Exploring
