Campgrounds near Waxahachie, Texas offer varying terrain with elevations ranging from 400-550 feet around Bardwell Lake, which serves as the central recreational feature for most local camping areas. The clay soil common to this region can create challenges during rainy weather, with several campers noting issues with mud and erosion at certain sites. Water levels at Bardwell Lake fluctuate seasonally, affecting boat ramp and swimming area accessibility.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds around Bardwell Lake provide good fishing access. At Waxahachie Creek Park, one camper noted it offers the "Best fishing.kayaking." Liberty Hill Park at Navarro Mills Lake is known for exceptional crappie fishing, with one visitor explaining, "Lake Navarro Mills is well know as the best Crappie fishing lake in Texas."
Swimming and beach access: Multiple parks feature swimming areas with sand beaches. Mott Park provides "Clean lake.no broken glass.mowed grass" according to a visitor who enjoys "cooking.swimming.hicking.camping." Liberty Hill Park offers "Great swimming area with beach area and large children play area," making it ideal for families.
Hiking and biking: The trail systems vary between campgrounds. At Loyd Park, visitors appreciate the "Great bike trails" with one camper mentioning they "loved this place" specifically for the cycling opportunities. Several parks have paved roads suitable for walking, with one Liberty Hill visitor noting "no trails to hike on but plenty of good roads to walk."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated camping areas. At High View, campers enjoy "Grassy, open" sites with "tons of grass" where pets can run while leashed. One visitor described their experience: "We stayed in campsite 29 which is kind of elevated a bit and we had a great view of the lake."
Lake views: Scenic vistas are a highlight at several parks. At Mott Park, a visitor praised the "spacious sites and gorgeous views of Bardwell Lake. Our site #29 was nice and shady and panoramic view of lake." Another camper at Liberty Hill mentioned enjoying "beautiful views" with "water front views."
Security features: Several campgrounds prioritize safety measures. High View campers mentioned that "Local sheriff's dept and park ranger made several trips through the park which made it feel secure." At Northside RV Resort, visitors appreciate that "the park is gated and secure" with restricted access.
What you should know
Facility maintenance varies: Bathroom conditions differ significantly between parks. At High View, campers report "Not the cleanest bathrooms but not the worst either" and mention that some facilities had been "destroyed by vandals." Cedar Hill State Park received mixed reviews with one visitor noting they were "surprised to find a very sloping site with the cement bumpers missing rebar and very unsafe."
Weather impact on sites: The clay soil in the area creates challenges during rain. At Loyd Park, one camper warned about specific sites: "Our only complaint on this site is when it rains, water pours into site and erodes area quickly and will fill your mat etc with orange clay."
Insect considerations: Several campsites have significant ant problems. At Cedar Hill State Park, visitors repeatedly mention "fire ants and chiggers all over our campsite!" Northside RV Resort had similar issues with one camper reporting, "We had ants in our trailer and lots of bites."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreational areas: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's facilities. Liberty Hill provides "large children play area" that families enjoy. Northside RV Resort has "a pond with a fountain and a HUGE fireplace (not fire pit) for relaxing" plus "Two dog parks and one small play ground for kids."
Shower facilities: Bathroom amenities differ between parks, affecting family camping comfort. At Northside RV Resort, "Each shower has its own toilet and vanity behind a lockable door," providing privacy for families. High View offers "Hot water was very nice!" in their shower facilities.
Weekend planning: Occupancy patterns affect the camping experience. At Loyd Park, campers note it's "Usually quiet except on weekends" when day-use visitors increase. One visitor mentioned, "You do have quite a few 'day users'" on weekends, especially at beach areas.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Power options vary between campgrounds. Cedar Hill State Park offers a mix of electrical options where "Some sites are 50 amp, while all are for 30 amp." One camper advises to "call ahead to see which sites have 50 amp, you'll need it in summer time."
Site selection for big rigs: Larger RVs require specific considerations at certain parks. At Loyd Park, "Larger rigs are more accommodated next to the lake" according to experienced campers. Liberty Hill visitors warned about navigation challenges, noting "Very confusing and the turns are extremely tight. I do not recommend people with motorhome over 40 feet come here."
Horse accommodation considerations: While dedicated horse campgrounds near Waxahachie, Texas are limited, some campgrounds might accommodate visitors with horses on a case-by-case basis. High View features "spacious grassy areas" that could potentially work for horse trailers, though no specific equestrian facilities are advertised. For horseback riding and equestrian camping options near Waxahachie, contact individual campgrounds directly about their policies.
