Benbrook Lake sits at approximately 700 feet elevation in north central Texas with water levels that fluctuate seasonally based on rainfall patterns. The campgrounds surrounding this 3,700-acre reservoir provide camping options within a 30-minute drive of Fort Worth, making them popular for weekend trips. Winter temperatures typically range from 35-60°F, while summer months can reach well above 100°F.
What to do
Wildlife observation: The areas around Benbrook Lake harbor diverse wildlife. "We came across 5 different groups of [deer] as I was driving around taking in the entire campground. Of course, where there are deer there are ticks. Make sure to use insect repellent and give yourself a check," notes one camper at Holiday Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing spots exist around the lake with varying fish activity. "If you're into fishing, this spot is for you. Every couple of minutes there was a 'plop' from another fish popping out of the water. If you have a small boat, you could drop in right from your site and head out across the lake," reports a visitor to Holiday Park Campground.
Water recreation: The lake supports multiple water activities when water levels permit. "It was 111° the long weekend we stayed here but we found a spot with some trees by the lake and had electricity hook ups so it was actually quite nice," shares a camper at COE Benbrook Lake Mustang Park Bear Creek Campground, highlighting how lakefront sites can help manage the Texas heat.
Trail exploration: Several campgrounds connect to walking paths, though limited compared to other parks in the region. "Bicyclists seem to love it here as I saw dozens riding the streets," mentions a Holiday Park visitor, pointing to road cycling as an alternative to traditional hiking trails.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room between sites at certain campgrounds. "Sites are large sites is a big plus. Perimeter sites are much better than inner loop sites - our site is along a lakeshore more than lakeshore," writes a camper at Holiday Park Campground.
Covered picnic areas: Shaded eating spaces offer relief from summer heat. "Most sites have covered tables and fire rings at individual sites, with varying levels of shade depending on location," notes one review.
Convenient location: The proximity to Fort Worth makes these campgrounds practical for weekend trips. "We have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and stayed in site 73 for 1 night in mid September. The CG is clean, well maintained... The CG was very quiet and peaceful," states a Holiday Park Campground visitor.
Lake views: Many campers specifically choose waterfront sites. "Campsite is clean and easy to navigate. Camp fires are ok. Pets friendly with lots of new smells for the pups," mentions a review of Rocky Creek Park, one of the smaller campgrounds at Benbrook Lake.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Different camping areas around Benbrook Lake offer varying amenities. "I stayed at this park from July 8 until July 14, we were in site #05. This site ha 50 amp electric and water. Park was very well kept, grass mowed and cover over picnic table. This site had little to no shade, ac had to work very hard. Would not recommend this site in summer time," advises a Holiday Park visitor.
Facilities condition: Bathrooms and amenities vary significantly between campgrounds. "The toilets and showers are showing their age, so they are not for the squeamish," notes one Holiday Park camper.
Wildlife precautions: Animal encounters are common and require preparation. "Lots of wildlife around. Very spacious sites with lots of shade," shares a visitor to Loyd Park, located on nearby Joe Pool Lake, approximately 20 miles east of Benbrook Lake.
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels change throughout the year, affecting activities. "When we got to Benbrook, we used the campground website instructions as we didn't see any signage for the CG on US377 coming in from the east," mentions a Holiday Park camper, highlighting navigation challenges.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Families benefit from combining camping with nearby attractions. "This is a beautiful State Park with miles of trails, year round family activities, and dinosaur foot prints," writes a visitor to Dinosaur Valley State Park, located about 45 minutes southwest of Benbrook Lake.
Swimming spots: Several areas provide water recreation for children during summer months. "One of the best natural swimming holes I've found near DFW," notes a Dinosaur Valley camper.
Pet policies: Most campgrounds around Benbrook Lake welcome pets with certain restrictions. "Me and my wife loved this place. Great bike trails. Friendly staff and lovely sites, each pretty secluded from each other," shares a Loyd Park visitor.
Reservation timing: Advance booking is essential during peak periods. "Sites 83-93 had water and electric as well as some of the sites near the front of the park," advises a Holiday Park camper, emphasizing the importance of knowing what amenities are available when booking specific sites.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: Large RVs require careful site selection at Benbrook Lake campgrounds. "The CG roads are paved, but narrow and a little winding in places. The sites themselves all seemed mostly level. The registration card says to watch for branches if your RV is over 12' tall, but there were several branches much lower than that leaving site 73," cautions an RV owner at Holiday Park.
Hookup locations: Different campsites offer varying hookup configurations. "We stayed in a covered space, water, electricity and sewer included in $800 month space. Country setting. Mostly quiet except for moving traffic on the road behind us," notes a long-term visitor to Fort Worth RV Park, located near Benbrook Lake.
Summer heat management: Texas summers require additional cooling considerations for RVers. "We got 3 bars on Verizon and a whole bunch of OTA channels. We enjoyed the view of the lake and privacy at our site since we were the only ones there the whole time of our stay during the week," shares a Holiday Park visitor, highlighting connectivity options important to many RVers.
