Lewisville Lake spans 29,000 acres in north Texas with 233 miles of shoreline. Water levels can fluctuate dramatically throughout the year, affecting camping areas during high water periods. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F between June and September, while spring and fall offer milder weather for camping with nighttime temperatures in the 50-60°F range.
What to do
Hiking trails with lake views: Several trails around Ray Roberts Lake State Park Isle du Bois provide excellent walking opportunities. "Scenic trails vary in distance but are easy to connect for longer hikes – or walk the shoreline for a nice lakeside view. Lots to explore and see here!" says Gretchen N. The park features multiple well-maintained trails that connect camping areas.
Paddle sports on calm waters: The protected coves at Willow Grove Park offer ideal conditions for water activities. "The lake was warm and there was a little 'beach' for swimming- I would recommend water shoes and floaties!" notes Summer A. Many sites along the shoreline provide direct water access for launching kayaks and paddleboards.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings are prime time for deer sightings around campsites. "We used to come out and there would be just a few families, now it's very very busy. Still our favorite get away spot north of DFW. It's not a well kept secret anymore," mentions Kerry C. about the abundance of wildlife despite increasing popularity.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Hickory Creek Park offers well-separated camping spots. "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. Fire pits, bbq, picnic tables and some with gazebo," according to Reynolds O.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the maintenance standards at Meadowmere Park Campground. "Porta potties were incredibly clean and a main bathroom area featured showers and very clean as well. Closes to public after 530 and management made it easy for us to enter the gate upon our late arrival," reports Melanie G.
Urban wilderness feel: Despite proximity to Dallas-Fort Worth, many sites create a sense of seclusion. "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. Even though it's in a highly populated area, it feels very remote when you get into the park," explains Matt S.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds around Lewisville Lake fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "This isn't a large park and it can be difficult to get a reservation but it is so conveniently located basically in the middle of the Metroplex," notes Courtney B. about Pilot Knoll Park.
Noise considerations: Traffic and air noise can impact certain camping areas. "It's located adjacent to I-35, just west of the Lake Lewisville bridge, so there's traffic noise depending on how close you're camped to the road," explains Susan L. Similarly, several campers mention air traffic from nearby Dallas-Fort Worth airport.
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels can change rapidly, affecting available sites and water access. "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., showing how waterfront sites can offer changing views.
Tips for camping with families
Safe swimming areas: Sycamore Bend Park offers convenient water access for children. "Really nice park right on the lake, but it does get a bit crowded. We arrived on a Saturday around noon and took what seemed to be the last spot," advises Hannah F. The park includes designated swimming areas where water depth gradually increases.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "This camp site is very popular with the boy and cub scout troops in the North Dallas Metroplex area. So if you looking for a nice quite place to commune with nature this may not be your cup of tea," mentions Chris K., noting the child-friendly atmosphere.
Weather planning: Summer heat requires careful planning for family activities. "We stayed in spot 23 and although windy, I really enjoyed the scenery and quietness," says Narly I., highlighting how weather conditions can affect the camping experience with children. Early morning and evening activities work best during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for views: Waterfront sites often provide the best experience. "We like this COE campground because conveniently located near where I live, and if I'm lucky I can snag a site with trees and lake access. But the tradeoff for convenience is proximity to civilization," explains Susan L. Sites in the 90-94 loop at Hickory Creek are particularly recommended.
Hookup availability: Various electricity options exist throughout the area's campgrounds. "The electric was recently upgraded after the flooding this year. So there's 50 amp available now too. I camped at site 39 and it was an asphalt/gravel pad and fairly level. Water pressure was good," notes a camper about infrastructure improvements.
Water pressure considerations: Some campsites have unusually high water pressure. "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," warns Chris P. Bringing a pressure regulator is recommended for RV campers at several parks around Lewisville Lake.
