Mother Neff State Park and surrounding areas offer multiple camping options for pet owners in Central Texas. Located in limestone terrain 30 miles from Waco, campgrounds provide year-round access with summer temperatures often exceeding 95°F. Several locations near Moody offer dedicated pet-friendly camping with varying levels of amenities depending on how far visitors want to venture from established facilities.
What to do
Explore historic features: Mother Neff's trail system includes unique historic structures built during the 1930s. "What a great park full of history! Mother Neff has a lot to offer and is just about 30 miles from Waco, TX that is known for all the Magnolia stuff! The park headquarters have a lot of information so you can figure out your trip and hit all the main attractions in one decent hike!" notes Brittany S. about Mother Neff State Park Campground.
Water activities on Belton Lake: The lake provides fishing and boating options just minutes from several campgrounds. A visitor at Live Oak Ridge reported, "Water access is through the boat ramp, so don't expect to launch from your RV site since they are elevated far above the water." For dedicated anglers, White Flint Park provides direct water access for fishing.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early morning and evening offer prime wildlife spotting across several locations. At Cedar Ridge, one camper observed, "We saw lots of deer and birds. We will definitely return!" The park's terrain creates natural habitats where wildlife routinely appears near camping areas.
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: The campsites at several parks provide ample room between neighbors. At Cedar Ridge (TX), a camper reported, "The campsites are located on small loops which limits the traffic past the individual camp sites. Many people, but spread out so didn't feel crowded." This layout creates more privacy than typical campgrounds.
Clean, modern facilities: Recent renovations at several parks have improved amenity buildings. A visitor at Airport Park - Waco Lake noted, "Clean toilets and showers. Plenty of TP in restrooms." However, maintenance quality varies by season and visitation levels.
Shade coverage: Tree canopies provide relief from summer heat at select campsites. "We were in site 27, which our camp side is shady during the afternoon and evening. Each site has a fire ring, bbq grill, & lantern post," shared a visitor at Airport Park. Sites with afternoon shade become particularly valuable during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding concerns: Low-lying areas experience periodic closures due to water levels. An attempted visitor to White Flint Park stated, "We tried to go to White Flint last week. It was closed. Low water boat ramp issues, maybe past water damage, I'm not sure." Always check current conditions before arrival.
Gate closure hours: Some parks implement strict access schedules. At Midway, visitors noted, "Gates close at 10pm and you can not get back in until 6am. No idea why that's a thing but that's the rule." Plan evening activities accordingly to avoid being locked out.
Noise factors: Proximity to infrastructure can affect the camping experience. One Airport Park visitor reported, "Waco airport aircraft departing/arriving as early as 6am and as late as 11pm. One night we counted aircraft performing touch and go maneuvers 42 times. Approach was directly over our campsite." Research site locations relative to roads and flight paths.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with children, select campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. A visitor at Iron Bridge Park at Belton Lake reported, "The area consists of a medium sized gravel parking lot and grassy areas with covered cement picnic tables as well as a boat ramp at the end." Airport Park provides a larger playground, though it's positioned near only a few sites.
Trail difficulty assessment: Match hiking trails to children's abilities. At Mother Neff, one visitor shared, "The trails are quite short and you could go through the whole park in a day but it is well worth the drive to see and feel the history around you." Most paths are under 2 miles and suitable for children.
Wildlife education opportunities: Use animal sightings as learning experiences. Cedar Ridge campers regularly report, "You will see large groups of deer, turkey etc just wandering around." Morning and evening hours provide best viewing times near water sources.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Some lakefront sites require significant adjustment. At Airport Park, one RVer noted, "Our rear bumper in site 34 is 9.5 inch higher than the hitch. Some rigs might have trouble getting level." Bring adequate leveling blocks for waterfront sites.
Sewer connection placement: Hookup positions vary significantly between parks. An experienced RVer at Airport Park advised, "Sewer connection at rear of parking pad. Bring the looooong stinky slinky!" Extra hose length ensures proper connections regardless of site configuration.
Rig size considerations: Most parks accommodate larger vehicles, but access paths vary. At Cedar Ridge, campers noted the "sites along the water give amazing sunset and sunrise views. Our site was right on the water allowing us to fish from our spot." However, waterfront sites may have more challenging approaches for larger rigs.
