North Texas offers glamping options with varying levels of comfort and access to natural settings. Located between 500-700 feet above sea level in the blackland prairie ecosystem, the region experiences hot summers and mild winters. Most glamping sites near Richardson provide climate-controlled accommodations during summer months when temperatures frequently exceed 95°F.
What to do
Fishing at the lake: Pilot Knoll Park Campground provides shoreline access for anglers seeking a relaxing day on the water. According to Joshua M., "We brought our small family of four out to tent camp for the first time this last weekend. 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."
Playground access for children: Johnson Branch at Ray Roberts Lake State Park features a small play area for young campers. As Joyce L. notes, "I felt like I was at summer camp again. The sites are so well manicured and like the other reviews stated, they're cut in a way that gives you privacy." Most playgrounds are within walking distance of camping areas.
Kayaking opportunities: Michael H. from Pilot Knoll Park mentions, "Many spots have direct access to the lake to launch a kayak or SUP, boat launch in the day use area." Water sport enthusiasts should arrive early during summer weekends as launch areas can become congested after 10am.
What campers like
Spacious, well-maintained sites: Loyd Park consistently receives praise for its campsite layout. Camper Myc C. shares, "Campsites are a little close together nearest the water but probably the best sites in the Park. We spent three days there swimming and hiking around." Most premium sites at Loyd Park require reservations several weeks in advance during summer.
Accessible glamping close to Richardson, Texas: North Texas Jellystone provides luxury glamping accommodations with numerous amenities. One visitor, Lauren Z., remarks, "This is literally the best campground for families. There are tons of activities, games, crafts, pools, petting zoo, water park, and more." The park operates year-round with peak rates during holiday weekends.
Clean shower facilities: Johnson Branch Campsites at Ray Roberts Lake State Park offers exceptional bathroom amenities. Camper Robert H. confirms this, stating, "A very clean and well kept State Park, Bath and showers are very clean and warm it is cold today 38 Degrees." Most shower facilities include hot water available 24 hours daily.
What you should know
Tent camping limitations: Some glamping destinations near Richardson focus primarily on RV accommodations with tent camping as secondary. At Lavon Lake, camper Veronica S. observes, "The few tent camp sites were shoved seemingly randomly between and around the RV sites... The fire pit and ground of the rest of the site were littered in bits of trash ranging from things like food wrappers, pieces of plastic hangers, and my personal favorite - a construction nail."
Advance reservations required: Premium sites at most locations fill quickly, especially during summer months. Northside RV Resort requires planning ahead for their yurt options. Visitor Tex B. cautions, "Nice hard sites all with 20/30/50a, cable TV, and full hookups. There are 4 washer and dryers and showers for all 124 spots. So it's iffy getting one - no place to hang your clothing in the bathrooms and or wash area."
Varying cancellation policies: Policies differ significantly between glamping sites. One Northside RV Resort guest, Chip W., warns, "Throughout the online reservation process nothing is disclosed regarding the terms and conditions. After they take and accept your money, they email you a link to the terms and conditions which MUST you must click ACCEPT in order to stay."
Tips for camping with families
Bring insect protection: Seasonal bugs can impact camping comfort. At Northside RV Resort, Tex B. notes, "The bugs are bad here, we had ants in our trailer and lots of bites." Mosquito activity increases after rainfall, particularly in wooded glamping areas near Richardson.
Consider premium sites for shade: Summer temperatures make shade valuable. Northside RV Resort camper Rachel P. advises, "The only reason I gave it 4 out of 5 stars is the feeling that we were parked in an RV storage lot rather than a campground. It feels commercialized and may be a fine stop if passing through, but not a place I would go to actually camp."
Look for structured activities: Jellystone Park offers scheduled programming for children. Alexa E. shares, "We are from Houston and I opt to drive 4 hours to this one in burleson. Waller is good fun but that park does not compare to this site." Most activity schedules are posted weekly during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Utility reliability varies: Different glamping sites offer varying levels of utility service. Bluebonnet Ridge RV Park visitor Will and Lucinda B. explains, "The WiFi, while available, is really slow. When you connect, they track usage by hardware MAC address. Use too much, you get blocked and have to ask to be allowed back on." Most glamping sites offer 30-50 amp electrical service.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some locations. Bluebonnet Ridge RV Park camper Will and Lucinda B. notes, "You're really close to I-20, you will hear the road noise. Only trucks are loud. (We did hear a blowout, scared me to death!)" Sites furthest from major roads typically cost more but provide quieter glamping experiences near Richardson.
Site leveling challenges: Come prepared with leveling equipment. Cheryl D. at Lavon Lake recommends, "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."
