Tent sites near Richardson, Texas combine quick accessibility with varied natural environments. Campers have access to both lake-based recreation and wooded areas within a 45-minute drive radius. The region's climate allows for year-round camping with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing, requiring appropriate gear selection.
What to do
Mountain biking: At Erwin Park, find approximately 9 miles of maintained trails with built features. "Great easy spot for day camping or easy car camping with family. Good fire pits and great pavilion at the group site if you can get it. Best mountain bike single tracks around with lots of built features," notes Brian.
Wildlife encounters: Sleep Under The Pecan Trees offers unique animal interactions on its 100-acre property. Aaron W. describes: "Wild, yet docile horses will approach you. You can pet them and feed them by hand. Tall trees and gorgeous campsites. Donkeys hee-hawing, birds singing, and fire flies glowing."
Paddling activities: Tent camping sites near lakes provide water recreation opportunities. Sites near Lake Lewisville offer paddleboarding and kayaking access. "Really nice, secluded campground for being so close to suburbs. Great for hammocking, kayaking, paddle boarding etc," reports one camper about the lakeside options.
Fishing: Several campgrounds feature ponds or lake access for fishing. Mike J. from Sleep Under The Pecan Trees shares: "She caught her 1st bass in the pond as well. The entire property is simply beautiful."
What campers like
Urban proximity: Many campers appreciate how tent camping near Richardson provides nature without long travel times. A reviewer of Meadowmere Park & Campground calls it a "Hidden Gem!" adding it's "Peaceful, open, spacious and super nice management and staff."
Security features: Some parks offer enhanced security. Narly I. describes Meadowmere as "Close to Dallas, very clean and organized camp area." Another camper notes, "The park itself is gated and secure," about a nearby camping facility.
Private campsites: Tent campers frequently mention site spacing and privacy. "Campsites are far enough apart that you have privacy yet close enough that you don't feel alone," notes one reviewer about Erwin Park, appreciating the balance of solitude without isolation.
Clean facilities: Many tent campsites maintain well-kept amenities despite basic offerings. "Porta potties were incredibly clean and a main bathroom area featured showers and very clean as well," reports Melanie G. about her camping experience near Richardson.
What you should know
Fee increases: Campsite costs have risen at several locations. "The price has gone up from $7 to $20, but that's about average it seems now," reports Taylin B. about Sycamore Bend Park, noting the 3-night maximum stay rule remains in place.
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. Taylin continues about Sycamore Bend: "The restrooms really stink, but are always clean and stocked in my experience." At another location, a camper notes "the only thing I would change is the bathroom facilities, there are no doors at all!"
Site accessibility: Many tent sites require campers to carry gear from parking areas. Hannah F. notes about Sycamore Bend: "No access to drive to the actual site so I couldn't use my RTT but it's a short walk from where you park."
Weekend crowds: Popular tent camping areas fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "We arrived on a Saturday around noon and took what seemed to be the last spot," reports a camper, suggesting early arrival or weekday visits for better site selection.
Tips for camping with families
Choose parks with playground access: Several Richardson area tent sites include child-friendly amenities. One camper at Collin Park notes: "Easy access, plenty of tree coverage, and each area has a picnic table, grill, and fire pit" making it suitable for family outings.
First-time camping spots: Some locations specialize in introducing children to outdoor experiences. "Took my 6 year old daughter for her first camping trip and she loved it. The horses came into our camp and she was mesmerized by their size and beauty. Most amazing experience," shares Mike about Sleep Under The Pecan Trees.
Plan for weather: Summer tent camping near Richardson requires heat management strategies. Many families choose sites with shade coverage or bring portable shade structures, especially for summer afternoons when temperatures regularly exceed 95°F.
Supply runs: Camp locations sit near retail options for forgotten items. Aaron reports: "You will be about 12 minutes away from the nearest Walmart, in case you forget some camping supplies. We had to go there to buy more carrots for the horses."
Tips from RVers
Power options: Some tent campers appreciate electricity access. Joshua O. notes about Little Elm Park: "Electric hookups for RV generally a small area first come first serve.... 5 dollars per tent....restrooms and park lights.... stores nearby..... no showers."
Consider seasonal timing: Summer heat affects tent camping comfort significantly. Many experienced campers prefer spring and fall for Richardson area camping when temperatures remain moderate and insect activity decreases.
Check trail conditions: Mountain biking trails at Erwin Park flood easily after rain. James advises: "The trail network is about 9 miles and maintained by DORBA, these trails flood easily after rain so check the DORBA website before making the trip."
Watch for suburban expansion: Increased popularity affects some established tent sites. "I grew up going to Erwin Park to camp. It was a well kept secret with spacious tent sites, picnic areas and hiking trails... it has become a popular spot with mountain bikers. That can create issues on the weekend when the trails are teeming with cyclists."
