Campsite options near The Colony, Texas extend beyond the major lake systems to include both year-round and seasonal facilities within 40 miles of the city. The region experiences average summer temperatures of 95°F and winter lows around 35°F, creating distinct camping conditions throughout the year. Water levels at Lake Lewisville and Ray Roberts Lake fluctuate seasonally, affecting both accessibility and recreational opportunities at waterfront camping areas.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Hidden Cove Park & Marina offers convenient water equipment rentals right from the campground. "Rental paddle boarding, full marina, and swimming area" are available according to Richard M., who notes the park has "two designated tent camping areas separate from RVs."
Mountain biking trails: Twin Coves Park connects to an extensive trail system. Frederic N. describes the park as offering "a boat ramp, kajak launch, mountain bike trails." Another visitor, JoAnn, adds "Walking trails galore. Nice bathrooms, with showers."
Disc golf course: Lake Park Campground provides access to a disc golf course within walking distance of the campsites. Jason T. describes it as an "Awesome park, great lake and a discgolf course within walking distance!!"
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas with varying amenities. At Willow Grove Park, Summer A. explains there's "a little 'beach' for swimming- I would recommend water shoes and floaties! There are picnic tables and benches all over and tons of parking."
What campers like
Space between sites: Hickory Creek - Lewisville Lake offers ample room between camping areas. Reynolds O. notes "A lot of space between sites, well level and paved, family oriented, very quite, beautiful lake and tree sites, lighted power supply post with all the amps available."
Waterfront access: Many campers appreciate direct lake access from their sites. At Pilot Knoll Park Campground, Monica C. describes "Calm water, large lot land area and clean, easy access to walk right into the lake to swim, and space to dock your boat make the cove side of the park an excellent score."
Convenience to urban areas: Despite natural settings, these campgrounds remain close to city amenities. At Shady Creek RV Park and Storage, Rafael A. notes "You're right next to Frisco, Prosper, Little Elm, Savannah, and Denton."
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and common areas. At Twin Coves Park, Luis shares that the park is "Very clean, family friendly, well maintained."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. Jessica H. from Pilot Knoll Park advises: "We brought our PUP here for our first trip as it was close to home. You don't feel like you are less than a mile from a busy shopping center."
Security measures: Campground security varies by location. At Lake Park Campground, Scott K. notes: "Front gate get locked at 11pm. If you don't make it, you have to park outside and walk in."
Weather considerations: Summer heat and occasional severe storms affect camping experiences. Joyce L. from Willow Grove Park warns about being "Super, super windy. Got hit by two really bad lightning and thunderstorms and had to sit in my car for a while during the worst of it (certain parts had tornados and hail)."
Campsite selection strategy: Sites vary dramatically in shade, privacy, and water access. Susan L. from Hickory Creek advises: "I camped at site 39 and it was an asphalt/gravel pad and fairly level. Water pressure was good and there was lots of shade and ample privacy between sites in this section."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Isle du Bois Campsites offers multiple play areas. Matt S. notes: "There are several playground areas central to the various campgrounds with easy access for your family. Showers and restrooms are close by the playgrounds as well."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to observe local wildlife. Kerry C. shares that at Isle du Bois, "you see deer every trip."
Swimming safety: Lake conditions vary by location and season. Joshua M. from Pilot Knoll Park Campground appreciates "the open space between sites and the water, giving lots of space for the kids to play. Really pretty views."
Shade availability: For summer camping with children, selecting shaded sites is crucial. At Willow Grove Park, Cristi M. advises: "I've camped here in winter, summer, rain and sun. Very quiet if you camp away from the pier."
Tips from RVers
Hookup reliability: Many campgrounds offer varying electrical options. At Hickory Creek, Reynolds O. notes: "lighted power supply post with all the amps available. Fire pits, bbq, picnic tables and some with gazebo."
Site leveling: Site conditions vary across campgrounds. The Vineyards Campground offers "Large Sites with covered Picnic tables. Sites spread nicely with no one on top of you," according to Andrew B.
Water pressure issues: Some campers report water system challenges. At Pilot Knoll Park, Chris P. warns: "I found the water pressure too strong for my class b as the pressure caused a link under my sink. Convinced me to purchase my own water pressure resistor gauge."
Dump station locations: Not all parks offer sewer hookups at individual sites. Luis from Hickory Creek points out that "the sewage hook up is not at the actual site. There are dump stations in different places."
