Dog-friendly barns near Hickory Creek

On the north shore of Lake Lewisville, Hickory Creek is a tranquil escape for urban campers, with grassy parklands stretching down to the lakeside. At Hickory Creek Campground, you can pitch your tent at one of the walk-in campsites or opt for an RV site with electric hookups, all within walking distance of the lake. There are plenty of ways to get on the water, whether you bring your own boat, fish for bass and catfish, or cool off with a swim. And if you get bored of laid-back life by the lake (you won’t)—downtown Dallas is just a half-hour away.

Lake Lewisville

With 233 miles of shoreline, Lake Lewisville is one of the largest lakes in North Texas and a magnet for city-dwellers looking to cool off from the summer heat. Seven campgrounds dot the waterfront, and there are several boat launches and marinas from which to set sail. Sandy beaches and fishing are the main draws, but you can also explore the lakeside hiking and biking trails, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or play a game of golf with a view of the lake.

North Denton 

North of Lake Lewisville, the Elm Fork Trinity River winds its way north through lush prairies and hardwood forests, forming a 20-mile Greenbelt Corridor between Lake Lewisville and Lake Ray Roberts. Escape the crowds to walk or bike through the Clear Creek wetlands, or head to the Ray Roberts State Park, where the highlights include boating, big-game fishing, and horseback trails. The state park also has several RV campgrounds and primitive camping sites.

East Dallas

On the eastern boundaries of Dallas, Lake Lavon and Lake Ray Hubbard are fringed by leafy parks and swimming beaches. Both have options for campers, including full hookup sites, as well as boat, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard rentals. Further east, Lake Tawakoni State Park is another popular choice for boating, fishing, and camping. 

Dallasites make a beeline for Lake Lewisville in the summer months when the cool waters provide welcome relief from the sweltering Texan sun. This is peak season, so book your campsite well in advance. Spring and fall are the best times for tent camping and outdoor activities, with less humidity and temperatures still warm enough for swimming and water sports. Hickory Creek campground stays open year-round.

• The closest train station to Hickory Creek is Highland Village on the south shore of the lake. You’ll need your own transportation or to take a cab to reach the camping grounds. 
• Neighboring Lake Dallas (a 5-minute drive) is the closest town to purchase groceries, fuel, and camping and fishing supplies.