Benbrook Lake provides water recreation opportunities within 10 miles of River Oaks, Texas. The region's rolling terrain creates scenic campsites at elevations between 650-750 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through September, with mild winters that rarely drop below freezing.
What to do
Kayaking on Benbrook Lake: Access calm waters directly from COE Benbrook Lake Mustang Park Bear Creek Campground shoreline campsites. "I stayed overnight here while traveling from Galveston, TX to Ohio. The campsites offered some privacy as they were spaced pretty far apart. Lots of shade trees and very peaceful," reports Cindy M.
Dinosaur track hunting: Drive 45 minutes southwest to Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground where fossilized dinosaur footprints appear in the riverbed. "It's fascinating to see multiple dinosaur footprints along the river in this park. Very nice campground with shaded paved sites," notes Moe F. Water levels affect track visibility.
Fishing opportunities: Cast for catfish from designated fishing areas at multiple locations. "My boys caught a 12 lb and 20 lb catfish right off the fishing dock," shares Natalie S. Most campgrounds require Texas fishing licenses for anyone 17 and older.
What campers like
Concrete pads with full hookups: Many campers appreciate level sites at Cowtown RV Park near River Oaks. "Nice pull through cement pads that are level," notes Lucile F. Sites typically measure 65-75 feet long, accommodating larger RVs.
Shade coverage: Trees provide natural cooling during hot Texas summers. "Nice shaded spots available. Usually quiet except on weekends," reports Karen B. about Loyd Park. Most shaded sites fill quickly during summer months.
Clean facilities: Restrooms and shower buildings receive regular maintenance. "Cleanest bathrooms and showers," mentions Dan W. about The Vineyards Campground & Cabins. The campground provides daily cleaning schedules posted at facility entrances.
Privacy between sites: Campground layouts often incorporate natural buffers. "Sites are spaced far apart all come with fire ring and covered picnic table," describes Tammie L. Sites along lake perimeters typically offer more separation than interior locations.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Peak season demands advance planning. "We will try for site 17 again!" advises tiffany H., suggesting specific site preferences matter at popular parks. Holiday weekends often require 2-3 month advance reservations.
Weather considerations: Summer heat requires preparation. "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 Jacob V. about Bear Creek.
Gate security: Several campgrounds implement controlled access systems. "Great security visible as well as a coded gate after hours," notes Andrew B. Gates typically close between 10pm-6am with codes provided at check-in.
Water level fluctuations: Lake access varies seasonally. "Park is nice but closed again," John T. reports about Rocky Creek Park during flooding periods. Water level information updates appear on Corps of Engineers websites.
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Loyd Park offers scheduled programming for children. "This park is run by the City Grand Prairie, which provides a lot of safety. 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," shares Myc C.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment for different age groups. "Nice little pool. Several small fenced dog parks. Well kept grounds," describes Lucile F. Most playgrounds remain open dawn to dusk.
Swimming areas: Designated beach areas provide safer water entry points. "Great fishing, kayaking, playground, and swim area. Very well kept up," reports Mel B. Swimming areas typically lack lifeguards and operate under swim-at-your-own-risk policies.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Electrical capacity varies between campgrounds. "Larger rigs are more accommodated next to the lake. But call ahead to see which sites have 50 amp, you'll need it in summer time," advises John B. from North Texas Jellystone.
Electric load management: Summer heat requires adequate power. "Sites have electricity, water and cable also free Wi-Fi," reports Danny S. Air conditioning units typically require 30-50 amp service during summer months.
Dump station considerations: Not all sites offer sewer hookups. "We had to use the dump station. But apparently they are creating some full hookup sites so we will be back," notes Cactus A. Dump stations generally operate during daylight hours with periodic closures for maintenance.
