Developed campgrounds within 20 miles of Wilmer, Texas provide a range of camping experiences from lakeside recreation to wooded retreats. Cedar Hill State Park, located about 15 miles west of Wilmer, features over 300 wooded campsites with water and electric hookups, plus primitive hike-in sites. The area includes several RV-focused properties like Dallas Hi Ho RV Park in Glenn Heights and Northside RV Resort, which accommodate both short-term travelers and extended stays. Several campgrounds in the area feature cabin accommodations, including Loyd Park in Grand Prairie and Northside RV Resort, which also offers glamping options and yurts.
Road conditions throughout the region are generally well-maintained with paved access to most established campgrounds. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through September, with high humidity making shade a valuable commodity at campsites. "This campground is one of our favorite campgrounds that we visited so far. The location feels secluded from the city but close to the highway so you can be in the city within a few minutes drive," noted one camper about Hickory Creek Park. Most developed campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays during spring and fall when weather conditions are milder. Cell service is generally strong throughout the region due to proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, though some lakeside areas may have limited coverage.
Lakefront camping represents a particular highlight in the region, with Joe Pool Lake (Cedar Hill State Park) and Lewisville Lake (Hickory Creek Park) providing popular water access points. Many campgrounds feature concrete or gravel pads with electric and water hookups, fire rings, and picnic tables. A visitor remarked about Cedar Hill State Park: "The area is unique because it is within minutes from Dallas but offers the quiet and solitude that an area farther away from a major city would provide." Several campers noted the paradoxical nature of camping so close to urban areas while still experiencing relative seclusion. Noise from nearby highways and air traffic from DFW airport can be noticeable at some locations. Public lands with camping access are limited in this region, with most camping opportunities concentrated in developed county and state park campgrounds rather than dispersed locations.
$25 - $30 / night
"They offer water access, electricity, are near facilities, have tables and fire pits. Many of the sites overlook the lake or have easy access to the lake."
"Lake is nearby, and fishing permits in Tx are cheap and easy to grab online. Fairly quiet, but the sites themselves are private a shaded for the most part."
$98 / night
"Sarah and Paul have curated a great Texas countryside campground with private well spaced sites and great amenities. Need high speed Internet for work- got it."
"I stayed in spot #19, which gives you visibility to all the amenities around. The place is peaceful, I enjoyed walking my gsd around the property and checking out all the airstream rentals."
$50 - $60 / night
"Each shower has its own toilet and vanity behind a lockable door. Our campsite (532) was a little awkward to get in because of the corner and the speed bumps, but not impossible."
"The park has a man made lake with jogging trails. We enjoyed our stay."
$17 / night
"The park at lakeside had recently flooded but we were not there to go to the water and our site was not effected at all."
"Larger rigs are more accomdated next to the lake. But call ahead to see which sites have 50 amp, you'll need it I summer time. Beach is great."
"Stayed there during our trip to Texas, after visiting Big Bend. Overall, pretty good spot for RVing."
"Lots of room to walk the dog. Great atmosphere"
"Near Ennis, TX. Convenience stores, etc 4-6 miles away. Covered picnic table. Large combined family (private) restroom / shower."
$28 - $50 / night
"We stayed in campsite 29 which is kind of elevated a bit and we had a great view of the lake. Even tho it rained quite a bit we still enjoyed ourselves."
"Very pretty lake views and tons of grass. My dog loved going for runs through the grass (while on her leash). They had some showers and toilets working again when I went. Hot water was very nice!"
$5 - $80 / night
"It is a bit neglected but still pretty awesome with its spacious sites and gorgeous views of Bardwell Lake. Our site #29 was nice and shady and panoramic view of lake."
"Mott park is a fantastic campground for lake activities! At the time of my visit the facilities were clean. The park was well cared for and the sites were all pretty good."
ScoutWe have a very nice 2000 5th wheel. We had hoped to stay for a work trip and were denied because of the age of our RV. We were very disappointed. Nowhere online or in apps did we see anything saying our camper had to meet an age requirement. Also, you request a space ahead, tell who you are and what you’re bringing, then wait for a yes or no to your reservation.
GuideNice park. Could use some updates. Especially the shower houses. Park layout and lake access is great. Several sites are water adjacent. Staff is all very friendly and helpful.
ScoutThe site is not easily accessible. Maybe they are doing work in the area???
TravelerLovely campground, not very tight to maneuver around. Mostly seasonal people and you may need to go on a waiting list. The bonus is being able to wash your RV here.
GuideBuckle up for a long review! 😂 I stayed at Hidden Cove Park in February for 1 night with 2 kids; and I’d give it a solid 4/5. I would go back for sure.
Overall, this spot is really nice. The campsites are clean, spacious, and you’ve got plenty to choose from. Being close to the lake is a big plus — you can walk right down and fish along the banks, and the view is just calm and peaceful. Although the strong wind prevented any real fishing.
The setup is convenient too. Water spigot right at the site, table already there, bathrooms close by and decently clean. Trash dumpster is near the bathrooms so you do t have to haul your trash out.
Now Here’s the reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5…
Privacy is the biggest downside. Campsites are pretty close together, so you’re definitely gonna see and hear your neighbors. I had some loud neighbors and had to ask them to turn the music down. Then at 12:01 AM… same folks fired up an electric saw to cut firewood which for sure messed up my rest. 🤦🏾♂️
Not really the park’s fault, but the layout doesn’t give you much separation, so your experience kinda depends on who’s around you. Just hope you get quiet neighbors.
I gotta mention the price for those wondering. It’s $25/night (which is actually good for the amenities you’re getting), but parking is an additional $20. I don’t understand that but OK. With all the fees, my total was $70. Plus $5-6 firewood. Just an FYI.
Another thing — since the parking lot is close, you’ll see headlights shining through at night when cars pass. Not a dealbreaker, just something to know.
On the flip side, the closeness to the parking lot is actually clutch. I could literally see my car through the trees, and it was only like a 2–3 minute walk. Made it super easy to haul stuff. I even blew up my air mattresses at the car and just carried them over.
I also liked the concrete driveway and sidewalks — my daughter was out there skating, which was a cool unexpected bonus.
No bugs at all while I was there, which was a win. It was too windy to fish, but the kids still had a great time. They’ve got a basketball court, volleyball area, and a hiking trail (didn’t hit it this time).
The restaurant was closed — not a big deal, but would’ve been nice. They do sell firewood at the front for a good price though, which is convenient.
And honestly, one of the best parts… it’s only like 15 minutes from home, but it feels like a world away. That alone makes it a great little reset spot.
This is a GREAT place for first-time campers, and families, or even solo trips if you just want to get away for a bit.
LegendStayed in the Lakeside Loop. Very private patio areas. Large park. Pay close attention to site lengths. No margin for error. Swim beach, multiple boat ramps, perch pond and lots of day sites.
TravelerGreat environment & friendly staff. My only complaint is rowdy neighbors almost fist fighting drunk a site over. Children were present and foul language was being used and foul music was being played. I am young only 28 and the music was not family friendly. I have no kids but others nearby did. Other than the certain members on that site everything was great.
ScoutGreat sites close to the water.
Scoutso close to everything stayed a month manger so helpful covered spots family friendly
Camping options in the Wilmer area sit in the Trinity River Basin, where elevations range from 350 to 500 feet above sea level. The flat to gently rolling terrain features black clay soil that becomes extremely muddy after rain. Winter temperatures typically range from 35-60°F while summer brings persistent heat with 75-85% humidity levels, making shade essential at campsites during peak seasons.
Fishing opportunities: Bardwell Lake at High View offers productive fishing spots for catfish, crappie and bass. "We stayed in site 40 on our way south. The site was large and right by the water," notes one camper, highlighting the convenient water access.
Hiking trails: Cedar Hill State Park provides numerous trail options through limestone outcroppings and cedar forests. "The park is designed with small loops for 15-20 camp sites in each loop. Very little traffic right by the individual spots," explains a visitor, noting how the thoughtful layout enhances the hiking experience.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours at Loyd Park provide opportunities to observe deer, armadillos, and numerous bird species. "We spent three days there swimming and hiking around. Great times!" shares one camper about their wildlife-rich experience.
Lake access: Lake Bardwell at Highview Park provides swimming areas and boating opportunities. "Very clean.well kept.mowed.very family oriented..nice camp grounds.everything you need.right there..swimming area real nice," reports a satisfied visitor.
Security features: Several campgrounds prioritize visitor safety with controlled access. "The park is gated and secure. Each shower has its own toilet and vanity behind a lockable door," notes a camper at Northside RV Resort, appreciating the additional security measures.
Well-spaced sites: Many campers praise the privacy at sites like The Range Vintage Trailer Resort. "The first thing we noticed was how far apart the sites are, and they offer plenty of privacy," shares one visitor, contrasting with more crowded options elsewhere.
Weather preparation: Summer heat requires ample water supplies and heat-resistant gear. "Need high speed Internet for work- got it. Great Texas beers and distilled spirits- check that too. Come relax and stay awhile," advises a visitor to The Range Vintage Trailer Resort.
Insect concerns: Fire ants and other biting insects are common, especially during warmer months. "The bugs are bad here, we had ants in our trailer and lots of bites. When it rains stay on the pavement as the mud is nasty and gumbo," warns a camper at Northside RV Resort.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, particularly on weekends. "Gate keeper was SUPER friendly and let me know what to do if I needed assistance," notes a visitor at High View, indicating the helpfulness of staff with reservation issues.
Beach swimming: Designated swimming areas provide safer water recreation. "We stayed for a night in site 40 on our way south... Will definitely stay here again if we're in the area," mentions a family at High View about their lake access experience.
Playground access: Traders Village and similar campgrounds offer recreational facilities for children. "Our 2nd visit and it is great, everything you need to live here on site. Good wifi for TV and in town for cell service," notes a camper about the family-friendly amenities.
Bathroom facilities: Check bathroom availability and condition before booking with children. "The bathroom in that little loop had been destroyed by vandals, but there was a really nice one the next loop over," shares a visitor at High View, providing important information for families.
Site leveling: Most established campgrounds offer concrete or gravel pads requiring minimal leveling. "Nice hard sites all with 20/30/50a, cable TV, and full hookups," confirms a visitor to Northside RV Resort.
Utility hookups: Electric service varies between campgrounds with some offering 50-amp connections. "It feels like a state park, but run by the city. All sites are back in and allow for tent campers. Some sites are 50 amp, while all are for 30 amp," reports a visitor at Loyd Park, providing important electrical information.
Access roads: Most campgrounds feature paved or improved gravel roads suitable for larger rigs. "Campsites are all level and great for the Big Rigs," notes a camper at Loyd Park, confirming the accessibility for larger recreational vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Wilmer, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Wilmer, TX is Cedar Hill State Park Campground with a 3.8-star rating from 64 reviews.
What parks are near Wilmer, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Wilmer, TX that allow camping, notably Bardwell Lake and Lavon Lake.
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