Tent camping options near Wilmer, Texas span across a 30-mile radius from this small city located 14 miles southeast of downtown Dallas. The area sits at approximately 460 feet elevation within the Trinity River basin, characterized by gently rolling terrain and scattered woodlands. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 95°F between June and September, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons for most visitors.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Erwin Park offers approximately 9 miles of maintained trails for biking enthusiasts. A visitor noted that the trails have "plenty of built features" and are considered the "best mountain bike single tracks around," making this a destination for cyclists throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Lake activities: Collin Park provides direct lake access for fishing and swimming, though campers should be aware that "only a few tent areas [are] left since erosion has left several falling into the lake." Each area includes essential amenities like grills and fire pits.
Equestrian trails: While not suitable for overnight camping, Brockdale Park connects to extensive equestrian paths along Lake Lavon. One visitor clarified it's "a large Equestrian trail" and "a big parking lot for a boat launch" rather than a camping destination, but remains useful for day trips.
What campers like
Secure camping environment: Northside RV Resort receives high marks for safety features. One camper reported the resort is "gated and secure" with amenities including "a pond with a fountain and a HUGE fireplace (not fire pit) for relaxing." The gated entrance requires a code for entry.
Proximity to urban amenities: Many campsites offer a balance between natural settings and urban conveniences. A visitor at Northside RV Resort mentioned it's "convenient to heading up to Dallas or south to Waco," positioning it as a strategic base for exploring the region.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently comment on cleanliness at several parks. At Meadowmere Park & Campground, visitors described it as "peaceful, open, spacious" with "incredibly clean" porta potties and shower facilities, noting that "management made it easy for us to enter the gate upon our late arrival."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area have specific booking procedures. Some parks like Meadowmere close to the public after 5:30 PM, requiring coordination with management for late arrivals.
Weather considerations: Sites near lakes are subject to seasonal flooding and erosion. At Sycamore Bend Park, primitive camping spots along Lake Lewisville may be affected by water levels, particularly after heavy rains.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience traffic or train noise. Urban proximity means sound pollution can be a factor, with one visitor noting highway and railroad tracks near certain sites where "train horns [were] blaring all night long."
Fee structures: Camping costs vary throughout the area. At Sycamore Bend Park, a camper mentioned "the price has gone up from $7 to $20," reflecting recent adjustments to overnight fees at primitive sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Little Elm Park offers family-friendly amenities including playground equipment near tent sites with electrical hookups. The park charges "$5 dollars per tent" with restrooms and lighting throughout the grounds.
Scout-friendly locations: Certain sites are regularly used by youth organizations. Sycamore Bend Park is described as "very popular with the boy and cub scout troops in the North Dallas Metroplex area," making it potentially busy during scout camping weekends.
Bathroom considerations: Facility quality varies significantly between parks. While some have well-maintained restrooms, a camper at Erwin Park mentioned "the only thing I would change is the bathroom facilities, there are no doors at all!" which may be uncomfortable for some families.
Tips from RVers
Site logistics: Cedar Ridge Mobile Home & RV Park offers convenience for RVers transitioning between wilderness camping and urban areas. A visitor noted it's "located pretty close to a bunch of outdoor sports stores," making it "pretty easy to pick up" forgotten supplies.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat affects comfort levels at most sites. With temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F during summer months, RVers should prioritize sites with adequate shade or electricity for running air conditioning units.
Site limitations: Many parks have restrictions on vehicle size and limited hookup options. Erwin Park has both drive-up and park-and-haul sites, with a camper noting that each site includes "a picnic table, fire pit and trash can and some of the sites are more shaded than others."
