If you’re craving an open-air escape packed with natural beauty, quiet nights under the stars, and classic Texas charm, Denton is the perfect starting point. Located in the heart of the Prairies & Lakes region, Denton gives road trippers easy access to serene lakes, wooded trails, and campgrounds that blend comfort with adventure. Whether you’re pitching a tent, parking your RV, or glamping in style, the camping options near Denton are as diverse as the Texas sky is wide.
This corner of North Texas delivers more than just fire pits and picnic tables—it offers breathtaking lake views, wildlife watching, fishing spots, and peaceful hideaways ideal for families, couples, or solo nature seekers. Just a short drive from downtown Denton, these campgrounds make it easy to blend urban fun with rustic retreat, turning a simple road trip into a rejuvenating outdoor experience.
So pack your gear, fire up the grill, and get ready to explore the best camping destinations around Denton that are worth the miles.
Overview of Camping Around Denton
Denton’s geographic sweet spot allows easy access to a variety of camping experiences, from lakeside RV parks to heavily wooded primitive campsites. Many locations are within a 30- to 60-minute drive, making them ideal for weekend road trips or spontaneous outdoor getaways. This area caters to all camping styles: whether you’re traveling light with a tent or towing your home on wheels, you’ll find a perfect match.
Nature lovers will appreciate the mix of recreational options—kayaking, birdwatching, hiking, stargazing, and fishing are all readily available. Families love the safe, well-maintained grounds, while seasoned adventurers often seek out the more secluded parks for deeper immersion in nature.
And because it’s North Texas, the camping season lasts nearly year-round. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and colorful scenery, while summer brings lake fun and longer days perfect for outdoor relaxation.
Best Camping Spots Near Denton for a Road Trip Escape
1. Lake Ray Roberts State Park – Isle du Bois Unit
Just 30 minutes northeast of Denton, this sprawling state park is one of the region’s most popular camping destinations. Located on the shores of Lake Ray Roberts, the Isle du Bois Unit offers more than 200 campsites with water and electric hookups, as well as tent-only areas nestled among shady trees.
The park features hiking trails, a sandy swimming beach, boat ramps, equestrian trails, and excellent fishing. Families appreciate the clean restrooms, spacious campsites, and lakefront views, while hikers and bikers rave about the 20-mile Greenbelt Corridor Trail that connects the park to the city.
Address: 100 PW 4137, Pilot Point, TX 76258
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $25–$30 per night
Famous For: Lakeside camping, access to Greenbelt Trail, and family-friendly amenities.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Reserve lakeside spots early for the best sunrise views and easy kayak access.
2. Lake Ray Roberts State Park – Johnson Branch Unit
The Johnson Branch Unit, located on the opposite side of Lake Ray Roberts, is another gem for campers who want a more laid-back, less crowded experience. It features 160 campsites, ranging from primitive tent sites to water/electric RV pads, plus a dump station, showers, and picnic pavilions.
What sets this area apart is its secluded coves, quiet trails, and large open spaces perfect for stargazing. It’s a favorite for anglers, kayakers, and families looking to unplug and unwind.
Address: 100 PW 4153, Valley View, TX 76272
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$30 per night
Famous For: Secluded campsites, excellent fishing spots, and low visitor density.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Choose a tent-only site on the outer loops for the most peace and privacy.
3. Lake Lewisville Campgrounds – Hickory Creek Park
Tucked along the western shore of Lake Lewisville, Hickory Creek Park is a Corps of Engineers-managed site with a reputation for clean grounds, lake access, and shaded campsites. It’s a short 20-minute drive from Denton, making it a top choice for quick weekend trips.
The park features 121 campsites with water and electric hookups, RV pads, and easy access to boat ramps, hiking trails, and scenic lakefront views. It’s also one of the quieter Lake Lewisville options, ideal for relaxed camping with minimal party crowds.
Address: 12000 Hickory Creek Rd, Hickory Creek, TX 75065
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $20–$28 per night
Famous For: Peaceful lakefront camping with easy access to the water.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring your bikes—this park connects to the Elm Fork Trail, a scenic ride through lakeside woods.
4. Pilot Knoll Park
Operated by the Town of Highland Village, Pilot Knoll Park is a charming lakeside campground located about 30 minutes southeast of Denton. The park offers both RV and tent camping with scenic views of Lake Lewisville, plus a boat ramp, playground, and picnic areas.
With just 49 sites, it maintains a cozy, small-park feel. The peaceful surroundings, plentiful shade, and well-kept grounds make it a hidden favorite among locals.
Address: 218A Orchid Hill Rd, Argyle, TX 76226
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $20–$30 per night
Famous For: Quiet lakeside setting and friendly small-park atmosphere.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Request a waterfront site—sunsets over Lake Lewisville are stunning from your camp chair.
5. Shady Creek RV Park & Storage
If you’re road-tripping in an RV and want full-service amenities without losing the outdoor vibe, Shady Creek RV Park is a top pick. Located in Aubrey, just north of Denton, this well-maintained RV park includes large pull-through sites, full hookups, Wi-Fi, a dog park, and a pool.
Though it’s not a traditional wilderness campground, its quiet setting and convenience make it ideal for longer stays or digital nomads traveling through Texas.
Address: 1893 FM 1385, Aubrey, TX 76227
Hours: 24/7 check-in
Approx Cost: $45–$55 per night
Famous For: Modern RV amenities and extended-stay comfort in a country setting.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Great for winter Texan travelers—monthly rates and full hookups are available.
6. Elm Fork Campground at Lake Lewisville
Run by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Elm Fork Campground is located near the dam at Lake Lewisville and offers a mix of primitive and modern campsites. It’s a favorite among anglers thanks to its proximity to some of the lake’s best fishing spots.
You’ll find shaded tent sites, fire pits, picnic tables, and access to both the lake and nearby trail systems. The natural landscape and birdwatching opportunities also make this a peaceful nature getaway.
Address: 8500 Kingfisher Ln, Lewisville, TX 75077
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$25 per night
Famous For: Fishing access, peaceful setting, and lakeside wildlife.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit in spring for mild weather and blooming wildflowers along the trails.
7. Indian Creek Campground at Lake Grapevine
Though a little farther (about 45 minutes from Denton), Indian Creek is worth the drive. Nestled along Lake Grapevine, this wooded campground offers a peaceful setting with hiking, mountain biking, and boating opportunities.
The campsites are well spaced and offer privacy not often found at busier campgrounds. It’s an excellent spot for weekend getaways with a mix of nature and recreation.
Address: 9449 Naylor Rd, Flower Mound, TX 75022
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $25–$35 per night
Famous For: Secluded sites with easy lake and trail access.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring hammocks or camp chairs—this is the perfect place to slow down and unplug.
Great Food Stops for Campers Near Denton
1. Bucky’s BBQ & Smokehouse
A favorite for filling up before or after your outdoor adventure, this casual smokehouse serves up ribs, brisket, and all the Texas BBQ fixings.
Address: 1900 Dallas Dr, Denton, TX 76205
Hours: 11 AM – 8 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20
Famous For: Mesquite-smoked brisket and generous sides.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Pick up a family pack before heading to your site for an easy and delicious camp dinner.
2. Cartwright’s Ranch House
This downtown Denton staple is great for breakfast or a post-camping reward meal. Classic comfort food in a friendly Texas setting.
Address: 111 N Elm St, Denton, TX 76201
Hours: 7 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $8–$15
Famous For: Hearty breakfast platters and homestyle chicken-fried steak.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try the biscuits and gravy before heading out—it’ll power your whole hike.
3. Rooster’s Roadhouse
A laid-back spot with burgers, wings, and a Texas tap list that’s perfect after a day in the woods or on the lake.
Address: 113 Industrial St, Denton, TX 76201
Hours: 11 AM – 11 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$18
Famous For: Burgers and beers with a local vibe.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Call ahead to order for pickup if you’re heading straight back to your campfire.
Packing Tips for Camping Near Denton
- Tent, stakes, mallet, and tarp
- Sleeping bags and sleeping pads
- Camp stove or grill, fuel, and lighter
- Cooler with ice, food, and water jugs
- Lanterns, headlamps, and extra batteries
- Bug spray, sunscreen, and lip balm
- Folding chairs and picnic blanket
- Campfire-approved firewood (if allowed)
- Trash bags and biodegradable soap
- First-aid kit and printed map of the area
Local Tips & Seasonal Advice
- Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons for camping
- Reserve your site in advance—weekends fill fast at state parks
- Bring shade structures for summer—North Texas sun gets intense
- Keep an eye out for wildlife—deer, armadillos, and hawks are common
- Check fire restrictions before bringing wood or starting campfires
- Be weather-aware—flash flooding can occur near lakes and rivers
- Midweek trips offer quieter campgrounds and more availability
- Many sites near Denton offer great stargazing on clear nights
Conclusion
Camping near Denton offers a blend of peaceful lakes, shaded woods, and family-friendly comfort that transforms any Texas road trip into a nature-filled retreat. With scenic parks just minutes from town and full-featured campgrounds further afield, this region gives outdoor lovers every reason to pull over, pitch a tent, and stay a while.
Whether you’re roasting marshmallows under the stars at Lake Ray Roberts, hiking wooded trails at Indian Creek, or watching the sunrise over Lake Lewisville, these campgrounds deliver a much-needed breath of fresh air. Road trip or not, the best way to reconnect with nature is just a short drive from Denton.
