Within an hour of McKinney, Texas, glamping options range across diverse terrain from lakefront properties to wooded retreats. The area features several reservoirs including Lake Lavonia, Grapevine Lake, and Ray Roberts Lake, creating opportunities for water-based recreation. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lavonia Lavon Lake, campers can enjoy lake fishing from numerous points. "Good crappie fishing on the lake and nice cove to swim or kayak in," notes one visitor to the area's fishing spots.
Water activities: The Vineyards Campground & Cabins offers direct access for boating and swimming. One camper shared, "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."
Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems connect camping areas with lakeshores and wooded sections. A visitor at Bonham State Park mentioned, "Hiking, fishing, boat rental and best of all Smors cooked over a roaring camp fire! At every Texas State Park you can check out fishing equipment from the front office."
What campers like
Wide spacing between sites: Pilot Knoll Park Campground receives praise for its layout. "I really enjoyed how well kept the grounds were and did love the open space between sites and the water, giving lots of space for the kids to play. Really pretty views," according to a recent camper.
Clean facilities: Many locations maintain well-serviced bathrooms and shower facilities. One camper at Eisenhower State Park pointed out, "The bathrooms are always clean. Fellow campers are very friendly."
Privacy features: Site configurations at many locations create natural separation. "The sites are cut in a way that gives you privacy. The sites are fairly close together but the grass makes it feel like you have your own little oasis," observed a visitor at Johnson Branch Campsites.
What you should know
Tent camping limitations: Some glamping sites near McKinney prioritize RVs over tent campers. One review of Lavonia Lavon Lake states, "Tent camping is an afterthought. Each of those sites have water, electricity, and a sewer connection, with a covered cement pad with a grill, a table, and other relevant features. The few tent camp sites were shoved seemingly randomly between and around the RV sites."
Water level fluctuations: Lake access points can change depending on seasonal conditions. "The platforms are extremely in disrepair - literally falling into the lake. The ones we saw were actually dangerous," warned one camper about dock conditions during a rainy period.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping locations near McKinney require advance booking, especially during spring and summer. Weekends fill quickly at Johnson Branch Campsites — Ray Roberts Lake State Park, where one visitor noted, "Lots of families and groups coming to camp here, but everyone seemed to have a shared respect for each other."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds include dedicated play areas. "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. There is also a small playground with slides and climbing structures across from the restrooms," reported a family at Pilot Knoll Park.
Swimming beaches: Many glamping locations include designated swimming areas with varying amenities. "Clean roomy pretty Campground. Very Pretty Views. Large Sites with covered Picnic tables. Sites spread nicely with no one on top of you," noted a visitor about family-friendly spaces.
Educational opportunities: Loyd Park offers nature programs during peak seasons. "Beach area and playgrounds are great, although you do have quite a few 'day users.' The park also has a boat ramp," mentioned one camper about the family-friendly amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for uneven spots at certain locations. "Our site was very unlevel on the hill, so bring your chocks. It rained and rained while we were there, but we still had a nice time with the grandkids," advised an RV camper.
Hookup variations: Full hookup availability varies widely between glamping locations. "Nice large concrete spaces with plenty of room for a 44' 5th wheel, tow vehicle and extra vehicle," reported one RVer at Sanger - Denton North KOA.
Gate timing restrictions: Some parks limit access during certain hours. "Only drawbacks are unlevel sites and front gates don't open til 10am every morning so can't get back in if you go get breakfast," noted a visitor about operational limitations at one location.
