Ray Roberts Lake State Park and Lewisville Lake offer multiple camping options for visitors with pets near The Colony, Texas. Located in north Texas where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F during summer months, these parks provide shaded camping spots along with water activities. The region contains several Corps of Engineers managed parks with varying levels of amenities within 30 minutes of The Colony.
What to do
Trail exploration with dogs: At Isle du Bois Campsites — Ray Roberts Lake State Park, hiking trails vary in distance and connect for longer treks. "Scenic trails vary in distance but are easy to connect for longer hikes – or walk the shoreline for a nice lakeside view," notes Gretchen N. These trails accommodate both pets and owners for exercise away from summer heat.
Waterfront activities: Bring water shoes for your pet at Pilot Knoll Park - Lake Lewisville where shoreline access is available. "The camping area has lots of shade, and many spots are very close to the water. Every RV slot has electric, water, a picnic table, a fire ring, and a grill," explains Jessica H. The park includes a playground and kayak rentals for $40 daily or $25 for 4 hours.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening walks offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We have done a lot of Primitive camping here that requires only a half mile walk from the parking lot. Each time we saw plenty of deer around camp," reports Matt S. about Ray Roberts Lake. Early morning walks with pets provide cooler temperatures and better wildlife spotting chances.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Pilot Knoll Park offers good separation between campsites. "I love this campground. It's close to my home but makes me feel like I'm camping far away from home. Lots of trees, many spots right on the water, great kayak launch, has hiking trails and decent distance between sites," says Susan T. The park maintains quiet hours effectively for peaceful evenings.
Urban convenience: At Murrell Park, campers appreciate access to nearby services while maintaining a camping experience. "Site #33 is for tent camping so there was no electric or water. The website said no toilets but there was a port-a-potty about 40 yards from our site along with a water spigot," explains Chuck. The park balances nature access with proximity to stores and restaurants.
Waterfront camping: Sites along the shoreline provide direct water access. "Sites on the point have few trees and wide open spaces, but the lake view is expansive," writes Susan L. about Hickory Creek. Similarly, at Pilot Knoll Park, many campers specifically request waterfront sites for fishing and water activities directly from their campsite.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat requires early morning activity planning for pets. "Summer visitors should bring water shoes for the small beach areas," advises a camper. The Texas heat affects camping comfort significantly from June through September.
Reservation requirements: Most parks fill quickly, especially on weekends. "This isn't a large park and it can be difficult to get a reservation but it is so conveniently located basically in the middle of the Metroplex," notes Courtney B. about Pilot Knoll Park. Reservations should be made 2-3 months in advance for weekend camping.
Proximity to urban areas: Erwin Park provides a natural setting despite urban proximity. "What a great getaway that feels like you're far from home but only a few min away for us. When you want a spur of the moment trip it's a great place to go," says Amy L. Most parks in the area have some degree of road noise or urban sounds.
Tips for camping with families
Group camping options: Several parks offer designated group sites with additional amenities. "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," writes Brian about Erwin Park. Group sites typically need to be reserved 3-6 months in advance.
Playground access: Shady Creek RV Park and Storage includes family amenities. "The campground is well taken care of and all sites are clean. They have good amenities and easy access to the campgrounds," reports Dan M. The park includes a pool and play areas suitable for families with pets.
Water safety: Consider life vests for pets near water. "Lewisville Lake provides excellent water access for dogs who enjoy swimming," though supervision is necessary due to boat traffic. One camper notes: "The sites vary from being 20 feet from the parking lot to half a mile out or so, but most people flock to the more formal campsites and miss out thinking they'll have to hike in."
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Not all parks offer sewer hookups at sites. "The only 'negative' I found is that the sewage hook up is not at the actual site. There are dump stations in different places," explains Luis about Hickory Creek. First-time RVers should plan accordingly and locate dump stations before arriving.
Water pressure considerations: Check water pressure at hookups before connecting. "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," warns Chris P. about Pilot Knoll. RV water pressure regulators cost $10-15 and prevent equipment damage.
Site selection for larger rigs: Some parks have limited large RV access. "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," notes Reynolds O. about Hickory Creek. Check individual site dimensions when booking for RVs over 30 feet.
