Lubbock sits at an elevation of 3,202 feet in the high plains of northwest Texas. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, and mild winters with occasional freezing conditions. Camping areas near Lubbock feature flat terrain with limited natural shade, requiring campers to plan for temperature extremes throughout the year.
What to do
Off-leash exercise options: Buffalo Springs Lake provides a dog-friendly environment where pets can enjoy outdoor recreation with their owners. Visitor Juan J. notes it's a "great place to get away! Family friendly, great fishing and easy to maneuver around!!"
Indoor activities during extreme weather: Lubbock KOA offers climate-controlled recreation options when outdoor temperatures become uncomfortable. Katie H. mentions, "A good KOA! Some shade, nice staff, picnic tables, an indoor pool, a hot tub, and a nice little walk around the park all make this place a good stay."
Shopping accessibility: Camping near retail centers allows for convenient supply runs during your stay. The Camelot Village & RV Park location provides easy access to necessities. Ronnie C. points out it's "very quiet. Mostly long term rv'ers... Costco, Cabelas, other retail, and restaurants across road in shopping center."
What campers like
Concrete parking pads: Level, solid parking surfaces make setup easier at several campgrounds. At The Retreat RV and Camping Resort, Linda Coker H. shared, "The concrete pads made set up so nice and easy! The trees are so nice to find in Lubbock during the summer."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are consistently mentioned in positive reviews. Karen B. noted that at Lubbock RV Park, "Bathrooms and showers were very spacious and exceptionally clean. Site was plenty big enough with a gravel base that was level."
Helpful after-hours systems: Campgrounds accommodate late arrivals with self-service options. Jeff D. appreciated that Lubbock RV Park "provide[s] a means to check in and camp during afterhours using cash or credit card. When we arrived it was dark but the property looked well-maintained."
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Several campgrounds experience traffic noise due to their proximity to major roads. At Twin Pine RV Park, Mark M. warns, "Location is right off Hwy 84, Slaton, Texas, so traffic is loud... Site was level, not shaded, no table."
Reservation requirements: Some locations have strict policies about advance bookings. Susan G. had a frustrating experience at Buffalo Springs Lake: "I arrived early enough to set camp before dark. Got to the gate and was told if I did not have a reservation, I could not enter... They claimed they were absolutely booked and had no room for a tent."
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures in Lubbock regularly exceed 95°F, requiring careful planning for pet safety. April Y. observes at Twin Pine RV Park, "Expect lots of dust, but no trash. They keep things picked up. Good for passing through or just staying outside of Lubbock."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access scheduling: When traveling with children during summer, plan swimming activities during less crowded times. At Loop Two Eight-nine RV Park, Victoria S. recommends, "This park was right next to the interstate so it was a little noisy. They have full hook ups, a clean shower house, and laundry for $33 a night."
Playground proximity: Select sites close to play areas but away from busy roads. Katie H. notes about Lubbock KOA, "A good place to take kids it seems, big playground right next to the pool. Our pups loved it too."
Educational opportunities: April Y. suggests, "If you have kids: You are close to the Lubbock Science Spectrum Museum which is part of the ASTC Passport Program. It is a great place to spend the day."
Tips from RVers
Entry/exit challenges: Some campgrounds have steep approaches that can damage longer vehicles. Robert R. warns about Cotton Land RV Park: "WATCH THE ENTRY AND EXIT TO THE MAIN ROAD. THERE IS A VERY LARGE GRADE difference between the park and the road. I dragged the bumper on my 35' fifth wheel both times getting in and out. Be careful."
Electrical reliability: Monitor power connections, especially during peak usage times. Charley K. experienced issues at Lubbock RV Park: "The RV park is ok sites are almost level. There is a problem with the electricity. I have a 50 amp connection with only one leg so I cannot run both AC units and it is 94 outside."
Alternative entrances: Some parks offer multiple access points with varying grades and clearances. Tara H. mentions at The Retreat, "Per the info there is another entrance but it's only available during certain hours."