Best Campgrounds near Whitney, TX

Lake Whitney serves as the centerpiece for camping options near Whitney, Texas, approximately 80 miles southwest of Dallas. The area features a mix of Texas State Park facilities and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) campgrounds along the shoreline. Lake Whitney State Park offers year-round camping with full hookup sites, screened shelters, and tent camping areas within shaded elm groves. Nearby McCown Valley Park provides both tent and RV sites with electric hookups, while Lofers Bend East and West campgrounds operate seasonally from April through September. Several campgrounds accommodate various camping styles, from primitive tent sites to full-service RV pads with 30/50-amp connections. Free camping can be found at Steel Creek Park, which provides basic amenities without hookups but allows both tent and RV camping.

Reservations are essential for most established campgrounds, particularly during spring and fall weekends when sites fill quickly. Many campers report making reservations 90+ days in advance for holiday weekends. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, making lakefront sites highly desirable for swimming access. As one visitor noted, "Tent sites are tucked in the back of the park away from foot traffic and most vehicles. Lake front sites are perfectly located with access to the lake but not too far from hard stand bathrooms and showers." Gate closures are common at many parks from 10pm until 6am, restricting late-night entry. Cell service varies significantly between providers, with Verizon generally offering better coverage than AT&T or T-Mobile throughout the area. During heavy rain periods, lake levels can rise rapidly, occasionally flooding lower campsites.

Lakefront access consistently ranks as the primary draw for campers visiting Whitney. The clear blue water supports fishing, swimming, and boating activities, with many campgrounds providing boat ramps and designated swimming areas. Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer and squirrels, which frequently approach campsites, especially at Cedron Creek where campers report deer "come in and feed." Shaded sites are abundant but vary in privacy levels. According to frequent visitors, "Sites 39-46 in the Horseshoe Loop are ideal for quiet spots away from people, but if you want space along the water, Lakeview and Sunset Ridge are the best picks." Several campgrounds feature unique amenities like screened shelters with electricity that provide weather protection while maintaining lake views. Dark sky conditions allow for excellent stargazing when neighboring campers minimize exterior lighting. Weekends typically see higher occupancy rates and increased boat traffic compared to midweek periods.

Best Camping Sites Near Whitney, Texas (150)

    1. Lake Whitney State Park Campground

    26 Reviews
    Whitney, TX
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 694-3793

    $14 - $50 / night

    "It has been raining non stop all over Texas. I began to look for places within 2 hours of Fort Worth. Texas State Parks are a great. I settled on Lake Whitney."

    "I stayed at Lake Whitney for a night on my way south from Dallas, so I didn't have much time to spend there."

    2. McCown Valley Park

    10 Reviews
    Whitney, TX
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 622-3332

    $16 - $45 / night

    "The hidden gem of Lake Whitney. Tent sites are tucked in the back of the park away from foot traffic and most vehicles."

    "One of the best parks on Lake Whitney."

    3. Thousand Trails Lake Whitney

    8 Reviews
    Whitney, TX
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "The lake access is not close to every hook ups but is a short driving distance. Lake access/swimming area is very nice, we had fun!"

    "Love the location, so close to Dallas! This park is so quite and very dark at night!"

    4. Cedron Creek

    6 Reviews
    Whitney, TX
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 622-3332

    $28 - $140 / night

    "Cedron Creek park set off Lake Whitney , outside of Whitney , TX . We had lot 27 , the back of the loop. Kinda secluded. Threw out corn and the deer come in and feed along with squirrels ."

    "The lake is clear blue water and has swimming area. Lots of deer will come quite close. Absolutely beautiful. Good fishing and boating there. Whitney has a good selection of shops to visit."

    5. Lofers Bend West

    6 Reviews
    Whitney, TX
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 622-3332

    $16 - $80 / night

    "This is one of the better COE campgrounds on Lake Whitney."

    "We stayed at site 63 which is right on lake edge. Amazing sunsets. Across inlet from boat ramp. The sites have covered picnic tables with both fire pits with grates and stand up covered grills."

    6. Steel Creek Park

    6 Reviews
    Whitney Lake, TX
    9 miles
    Website

    "Love this COE campground located off of Lake Whitney, open year round. About an hour from Fort Worth and Waco. Most sites are heavily shaded, with plenty of solar charging, too."

    "Entry gate closes at 10pm, but there is an exit gate always open. My visit was during a Texas’ rainy stretch and lake levels were on the rise flooding out the lower sites."

    7. Steele Creek Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Whitney Lake, TX
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 622-3332

    "* Water facets near most sites.

    Most sites a quite private with trees between them. There are 2 bathrooms, and a porta-potty. 2 boat ramps, and pavilions over the picnic tables."

    "Beautiful lake."

    8. Lofers Bend East

    3 Reviews
    Whitney, TX
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 622-3332

    $16 - $105 / night

    "Cute small camp ground, you can camp right next to the water and fish/swim. There is a beach access location about 1 mile away for easier and safer access for the kids."

    "We did notice the park rangers and sheriff’s department driving through regularly checking on things, so we definitely felt safe."

    9. Meridian State Park Campground

    26 Reviews
    Meridian, TX
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 435-2536

    $15 - $56 / night

    "They had 5 big rocks out to keep people from parking to close to the site.  Very close to the bathroom and shower room.  Very clean.  Right next to Park Office. "

    "By far one of my favorite state parks in Texas"

    10. Soldier’s Bluff

    5 Reviews
    Whitney, TX
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 694-3189

    "There are water spigots scattered through the park and a flush toilet nearby. Not very many sites though, so arrive early as they’re not reservable."

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Recent Reviews near Whitney, TX

579 Reviews of 150 Whitney Campgrounds



Guide to Whitney

Camping near Whitney, Texas, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing at Lake Whitney State Park Campground. One visitor shared, "Good amount of room, lake views for the most part. Lake access but everything is rock."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Dinosaur Valley State Park. A reviewer noted, "The trails are great for any exercise level, and there always seems to be something new to see while hiking."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife at Mother Neff State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "There were some nice shortish trails that worked well for our dogs."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the parks. A visitor at Cedar Hill State Park Campground said, "The staff was very friendly and helpful. Although the park has been around a while, it is maintained well."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer plenty of space. A reviewer at Cleburne State Park Campground noted, "Beautiful and generally well kept. It's an older style but they have a newer playground area next to the old one."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Families enjoy the activities available at North Texas Jellystone. One parent shared, "Well maintained, tons of activities for our 5yr old grandson."

What you should know

  • No Alcohol Allowed: Some parks, like Fort Parker State Park Campground, do not allow alcohol. A camper mentioned, "This is by far the most fisherman geared Texas State Park we have been to."
  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in some areas. A visitor at Dinosaur Valley State Park noted, "Pretty crappy cell service in our site."
  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Cleburne State Park Campground advised, "Make reservations in advance."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Kid-Friendly Parks: Look for parks with playgrounds and activities. A family at North Texas Jellystone said, "There are sooo many fun activities."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with plenty of snacks. A camper at Lake Whitney State Park Campground mentioned, "Great clean park with a nice boat ramp."
  • Plan for Downtime: Bring games or books for quiet moments. A visitor at Mother Neff State Park Campground shared, "The trails are great for any exercise level."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Meridian State Park Campground noted, "The sites are a bit tight for a big rig."
  • Bring Long Cords: Some sites may have electrical boxes far from your RV. A camper at Cedar Hill State Park Campground mentioned, "Most modern RV's electrical connection is in the back."
  • Use Dump Stations Wisely: Be aware of the location of dump stations. A visitor at Loyd Park said, "The community dump is run down too with broken equipment."

Camping near Whitney, Texas, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Whitney, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, Whitney, TX offers a wide range of camping options, with 150 campgrounds and RV parks near Whitney, TX and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Whitney, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Whitney, TX is Lake Whitney State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 26 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Whitney, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Whitney, TX.

What parks are near Whitney, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 parks near Whitney, TX that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.