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The best camping near Lake Tawakoni State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Tawakoni adventure.

75% (4 reviews)
75% (4 reviews)

Find your ideal escape from Dallas along these five miles of oak-forested lakeshore.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Lake Tawakoni State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Tawakoni State Park

100%
(5)

Texas Safari Camp

64 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents31 acres ¡ Kaufman, TX
Welcome to Texas Safari Camp Escape the stresses of city living on this heavily wooded 31 acre pristine wildlife habitat. Relax your body, refresh your mind, heart and spirit. Only one hour east of Dallas but it feels like another world. This piece of east Texas paradise is 20 minutes from Buc-ee's, restaurants, grocery stores and about 25 minutes from Canton First Monday. We offer a much more personal experience than any State Park. Your host is Randall Oliver, a woodworking artist. His energy, creative vision and love of the outdoors have transformed this property into the jewel that it is. He has been organizing group campouts for 30 years and enjoys hosting, bringing people together, inspiring a passion for the outdoors and sincerely welcomes everyone, regardless of race, religion, color, creed or sexual orientation. He looks forward to sitting around the campfire with his guests, sharing stories, laughter and good will. He can teach your kids how to build a campfire and paddle a kayak. This property is his back yard and the people who camp here feel like family. At the end of a one lane rock road- this is a very secluded, QUIET and safe property. It is perfect for tent campers (sorry no RV's) with abundant clean, flat tent sites. It's positive vibe attracts good people (including a lot of first time campers) and is more peaceful and relaxing than most state parks. It is next to a 950 acre wildlife park. The Texas Zoofari Park has 900 exotic animals, many can be seen from the road (or you can pay to drive through). This can make for some interesting wildlife noises while sitting around a campfire. While it adjoins the wildlife park on two sides, Texas Safari Camp is in no way affiliated with Texas Zoofari Park. This is an environmentally important property. It is part of the largest old growth hardwood creek bottom in Kaufman county. The only clearing has been done around the ponds. No hunting is allowed. It has never been in ag use and all of the native brush and cover has been left to benefit the wildlife. Imagine two ponds in the middle of a forest. Enjoy swimming and kayaking in the clear water front pond. Two kayaks and two paddleboards are provided. Both ponds are stocked with bass, cat, crappie and bluegill. You can hike the jungle trail back to a peaceful, secluded seating area we call Heaven. There are three camping areas with fire pits overlooking the front pond- the Smokey Hollow, the Waterfront and the Little Forest areas. There are no preassigned campsites- it is first come first serve. Camping is $22 per person per night. Kids 12 and under are $12.00 per kid per night. Day visits are $12 each for kids and adults, payable in cash upon arrival. Friendly, non barking and leashed dogs are allowed for free. Most people camp around the front pond but you can camp anywhere except right behind my home. Campfires are restricted to the existing fire rings. There is a rustic outhouse with a modern, ventilated composting toilet and sink and a hummingbird window touch of class. Water and electricity is available behind my home as well as an open air cold water shower. The hand crafted Hummingbird Treehouse has leaded glass windows, screened operable windows and a loft sleeping area with an operable porthole window. It overlooks the front pond and features a full size bed, lights and outdoor tables and chairs. Bring your own sleeping bags to enjoy this comfortable and classy alternative to tent camping. It rents for $80 per night for two people. No food, smoking or pets are allowed in the tree house. Texas Safari Camp Rules There are no specific site reservations so it’s first come, first served. Tent camping only- no vehicles allowed on the property. Off road wagons are provided for hauling your gear back to camp. Front pond camping areas are 30-100 yards from the two parking areas. Wagons must be returned to parking area after being unloaded. Careful, humane catch and release fishing only in the two ponds and only single, barbless hooks are allowed. You can gather and burn sticks off the ground and split oak firewood can be purchased. No chainsaws, no cutting, carving or harvesting wood from trees. All garbage (including food scraps) must be packed out. No burning of garbage. Parents of non swimming children must provide a personal flotation device (PFD / life jacket) and personally supervise their swimming. No sun block or insect repellent can be used by swimmers. All forms of hunting, guns, bow and arrows, bb guns, slingshots and weapons of any kind are forbidden. No electronic music is allowed (without ear buds), acoustic music is allowed but there is a 10pm to 9am curfew for noise. Campers must be respectful of the property and other campers. Auto alarms must be disabled. Loud, vulgar and drunken behavior, fireworks, generators or anything that disrupts the peace and tranquility of the property is forbidden. Property has minimal cellular service.
from 
$22
 / night
95%
(19)

The Indigo Hills Prairie & Wildflow

100 sites ¡ RVs, Tents50 acres ¡ Farmersville, TX
The very best native blackland prairie known to exist in the world. The prairie is surrounded by trees with plenty of shade for camping. If you get hot, take a swim in the spring fed pond that has cool water currents in certain spots. Or take the kids fishing off the fishing pier, and if they don't catch one, I'll give your money back. Come see us, enjoy nature and have fun.
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$20
 / night
94%
(40)

A Little Piece of Paradise

83 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents150 acres ¡ Terrell, TX
A little piece of paradise, a place near the sky to breathe fresh air, hear the birds sing, fish if you like fishing, enough space to walk among the trees and enjoy nature, if you are lucky you will see the deer or wild pigs . The property has a pool (if Reserve it 3 nights the pool be came exclusive), a barbecue gas grill and tables for a small pool party The property is outside of the city limits but is close to the city, 15 minutes from walmart. If you have specific questions fill free to text. Wifi upon request. We have deer during the season, wild hogs, a temporary river, creek, several ponds to fish, area to to ride ATVs, many trees, plus we are working in developing for more activities in the future
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$59.99
 / night
97%
(205)

Lakefront Paradise on Lake Lavon

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents2 acres ¡ Farmersville, TX
Enjoy the beautiful 180 degree view of Lake Lavon on this 1.88 acre private property, where the evening breeze is wonderful and the sunsets are incredible. The sites are steps from shoreline fishing swimming, kayaking, birding. Take a swim, fish, boat -- whatever your heart desires. Or just put up a hammock, chill, and enjoy the quiet nature bird watching and the sounds of the water. Great fire ring for campfires. Mostly peaceful quiet relaxation and fresh air here. Choose from either our tent site or our RV site listing depending on your needs. There's a seasonal boat launch three miles away and a year-round boat launch at Twin Groves.
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$30
 / night
100%
(830)

Llama Land Ranch

222 sites ¡ RVs, Tents101 acres ¡ Tool, TX
Property has been in family since 1987. The land has a rich history of wild boars and other wildlife. There is a live creek that runs along one of the property lines and is 50 ft deep. Pastures are mowed three times a year and always look beautiful. There is some terrain that is rough and the land has not been traveled. Bring machetes and a compass (We are not a rescue team). The land is ready to be loved by our visitors. The llamas will come to greet you and so will many more things in this wonderful place. We are conveniently located in a secluded area, but just a short drive from many local conveniences. Come enjoy the beautiful landscape and make memories you can treasure forever. You can also check out our website at www.llamalandranch.com
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$8
 / night
100%
(83)

Sleep Under the Pecan Trees

16 sites ¡ RVs, Tents100 acres ¡ Commerce, TX
Explore the 100 acre property that has 15 designated camp sights.... The closest two are about 100 yards apart. All the sights are near trees. Some Giant evergreens but most are near one of the 200 year old Pecan trees. Creeks meander through the woods and all meet on the South side of the property. 9 Horses, 20 donkeys and the friendliest mule ever! They Dot the property. Also deer, recoon, squirrel and an occasional armadillo may visit. A Great stocked pond and 3 other ponds make for beautiful fishing and photos etc.
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$30
 / night
100%
(1)

Wooded spots and open spots.

25 sites ¡ RVs, Tents86 acres ¡ Wills Point, TX
Learn more about this land:Its pretty open. At the back of the property are a few wooded areas. There are seven ponds on the property. All the ponds are stocked with fish. It's on 86 acres, trying to get everything set up.
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$50
 / night
100%
(564)

Sandy Ridge Camping

12 sites ¡ RVs, Tents90 acres ¡ Canton, TX
We're happy that we can open up our land for campers. We operate a pecan tree nursery and Pecan Orchard. On the south side of the farmhouse is a 80-year-old native pecan tree. You can enjoy wooded walking paths in the 80-acre forest and pastures, ponds and wildlife, including deer, wild hogs, hawks, owls, roadrunners, doves, cardinals, jays, woodpeckers, mockingbirds, and many other species of birds. Small mammals such as armadillos, rabbits, and squirrels are often seen, and the property is also awesome for stargazing. Please watch out for snakes, scorpions, pesky mosquitoes and ticks. This land has been a huge blessing to us and we hope you will enjoy your stay here.
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$40
 / night
Booked 3 times

County Line Arena & Event Center

18 sites ¡ RVs, Tents68 acres ¡ Wills Point, TX
Welcome to our expansive 44,000-square-foot arena, where adventure and relaxation meet in the heart of nature's beauty. Located conveniently along I-20, our venue offers a diverse range of amenities to ensure an unforgettable experience for all our guests. Whether you're arriving in your RV or prefer primitive camping, we have you covered with eight spacious RV spots, each offering convenient access to our facilities. While we don't offer septic hookups, our on-site bathrooms provide comfort and convenience during your stay. For outdoor enthusiasts, our nine acres of stocked fishing ponds offer ample opportunities for angling adventures. Whether you're casting your line or simply enjoying the serene surroundings, our ponds provide a peaceful escape into nature's tranquility. During events, our food truck serves up delicious fare to satisfy your hunger cravings, ensuring you stay energized for all your adventures. With the beautiful scenery surrounding our arena, you'll find plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the great outdoors. Whether you're seeking relaxation or excitement, our venue promises an unparalleled experience for all who visit. Come join us and discover the perfect blend of adventure and serenity right here along I-20.
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$40
 / night
100%
(17)

Quiet Spot on 3 Acres

9 sites ¡ RVs, Tents3 acres ¡ Kaufman, TX
I rent out rooms in my big custom house (all my kids have moved on) and camping space on the property. I love to meet new people who are traveling through my area! Learn more about this land: I'm not in the middle of nowhere, but my neighbors all have at least 3-5 acres.  It's always quiet out here, except for the birds and occasional coyote in the distance.  I have what Hipcamp calls a flexible cancellation policy.  Simply cancel on the site 24 hours prior to your check in for a full refund.
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$25
 / night
Saved 12 times

South Central

50 sites ¡ RVs, Tents150 acres ¡ Edgewood, TX
Learn more about this land:We are a motocross track on weekends during the week it is peaceful and quite we have full RV hook ups water and sewer or you can dry camp anywhere on the property
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$40
 / night
Booked 4 times

The W of Texas

8 sites ¡ RVs, Tents140 acres ¡ Myrtle Springs, TX
Hi campers, we have 100+ acres for your next camping adventure. You select campsite, First come first serve for your campsite. Camping allowed anywhere within the 100+ fenced areas. We have 5 ponds and gorgeous oak trees, accompanied by excellent sunrise/sunset views accessible to all. Portable bathrooms. Fires allowed per county regulations. (Wood provided) Helicopters welcome to land and camp
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$48
 / night

The best camping near Lake Tawakoni State Park guide

Overview

About

A five-mile stretch of Lake Tawakoni shoreline anchors this state park 50 miles east of Dallas, where on-the-water activities take center stage. The 37,879-acre reservoir—a popular spot for high-fin blue catfish and bass fishing—is surrounded by miles of hiking and biking trails winding through the surrounding post oak woodlands. Whether you’re out on the water or firmly on dry land, keep an eye out for some of the park’s 200-plus species of birds and other wildlife. 

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for boating: The Spring Point Camping Loop offers the closest access to the four-lane boat ramp.
  • Best for spreading out: The White Deer Reach Camping Loop features spacious plots with generous shade.
  • Best for big groups: The park’s private group camp accommodates 48 people with a large fire ring and six picnic tables.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve any of the campsites on the Texas State Parks reservations page five months in advance.
  2. Book early for weekend trips, especially during spring and summer when the park often reaches capacity.

When to go

Peak season at Lake Tawakoni runs from March through October, with spring and summer weekends getting particularly busy. Be prepared for high heat and humidity in summer; pack sunscreen and a hat, and remember to stay hydrated. Campgrounds remain open year-round, and things tend to quiet down after Labor Day. 

Know before you go

  • Swimming is allowed in a designated swimming area with a sandy beach, but no lifeguards are on duty.
  • Two White Deer Reach Camping Loop campsites with electricity are wheelchair accessible.
  • You can rent fishing gear from park headquarters; find a fish cleaning station near the boat ramp. Pick up ice, firewood, snacks, beverages, bait and tackle at the Lake Tawakoni Trading Post.
  • You don’t need a fishing license to fish from the shore. 
  • Campsites at Lake Tawakoni are pet-friendly, but pets must be kept on a leash.

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