Lavon Lake sits at approximately 492 feet above sea level and covers 21,400 acres when at normal water level. Located near Wylie, Texas, the lake experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F, making water access a priority for summer campers. Several campgrounds around the lake cater specifically to tent campers with limited RV hookups.
What to do
Hiking trails: Several walking paths wind around the eastern shores of Lavon Lake with minimal elevation changes. At East Fork Park Campground, visitors note, "Great views of the water and wildflowers in the meadows" and appreciate the "5G plus signal on ATT for anything you might need online" while exploring.
Fishing access: Bank fishing opportunities exist along much of the shoreline, particularly in the calmer coves. Catfish, bass, and crappie are common catches. At COE Lavon Lake Lavonia, one camper reported, "It has the feel of being somewhat remote since it's out by the lake" - ideal for anglers seeking quieter fishing spots.
Swimming areas: The lake offers designated swimming zones during summer months. As one visitor to Cedar Hill State Park Campground advised, "Make sure that you spend a lot of time in the lake because it gets hot." Rangers recommend life jackets for all swimmers due to variable water depths.
What campers like
Space between sites: Many campgrounds provide ample distance between camping spots. At East Fork Park, campers mention "plenty of space between sites" though some note "not many trees in some site for shade." This layout allows for privacy without feeling isolated.
Lake views: Several campgrounds offer direct waterfront access. At Pilot Knoll Park Campground, campers appreciate that "each lot has large raised gravel areas set up in place outside the camper doorway. I love this feature because it provides a mud free immediate campsite area."
Waterfront access: Campers can often launch kayaks or paddleboards directly from their sites. One reviewer at Pilot Knoll Park noted, "We stayed in spot #5 right at the end of the cove. Calm water, large lot land area and clean, easy access to walk right into the lake to swim, and space to dock your boat make the cove side of the park an excellent score."
What you should know
Limited shade: Trees are sparse at many Lavon Lake campgrounds. At COE Lavon Lake Lavonia, campers noted the campground has "wide open spaces and beautiful lake views" but minimal shade cover. Consider bringing portable shade structures during summer months.
Road conditions: Several campgrounds report deteriorating roadways. At East Fork Park, reviewers warn "the roads are horrible" and mention "numerous potholes, some very large." Plan arrival with extra time and drive cautiously within campgrounds.
Grass maintenance: Multiple campgrounds struggle with lawn care. One visitor to East Fork Park stated, "Great campground, electric and water. Only issue is the grass is always one high so bring a weed whip." Another noted, "Nothing like taking a nice shower and then having to walk back to your campsite in 2 feet of grass and get bit up by all the bugs in the grass!"
Reservation needs: During peak seasons (April-October), campgrounds fill quickly. The Johnson Branch Campsites at Ray Roberts Lake State Park typically require advance bookings, especially for horse camping facilities. As one camper noted, "Make sure that you spend a lot of time in the lake because it gets hot."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Pilot Knoll Park, one camper mentioned "a small playground with slides and climbing structures across from the restrooms" and "a little library set up at the playground" where their child selected Star Wars readers.
Swimming safety: The shoreline can drop off quickly in some areas. At Loyd Park, campers note "beach area and playgrounds are great, although you do have quite a few 'day users.'" The park also offers boat ramp access for family water activities.
Walking distance awareness: Some campgrounds require significant walks from parking areas to tent sites. At Johnson Branch, campers report "the spots are walk up and you gotta leave your car behind in a parking lot" which can be challenging with children and gear.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Many RV pads require additional leveling equipment. At East Fork Park, RVers note "the pad has definitely broken up over time and isn't level" and warn about "ankle-breaking drop offs between the parking pad and the picnic table."
Hookup locations: At some campgrounds, electrical and water connections may not align with standard RV configurations. One East Fork Park camper advised, "I backed in and used my extension power cord because the box was located midway from the rear. Since the space was so long... I could have pulled up a bit."
Site selection for shade: RVers seeking shade should research specific site numbers before booking. A Pilot Knoll Park visitor observed, "There is plenty of trees to provide shade, but not so many to block your view of the water. The temperature difference is quite noticeable the closer you are to the breeze coming off the water."
Equestrian camping options: For horse owners seeking equestrian camping near Lavon Lake, the Johnson Branch and Isle du Bois campgrounds at Ray Roberts Lake State Park offer the most developed facilities within reasonable driving distance. While these sites are 35-40 miles from Lavon Lake, they provide reliable access to horseback riding trails and equestrian-specific amenities.
