When the city noise gets too loud and your soul craves fresh air, a weekend camping trip from Fort Worth is the perfect reset. Just a short drive away, you’ll find peaceful lakes, shaded forests, starry skies, and trails that lead far from the stress of daily life. Whether you’re a seasoned tent camper, a cozy cabin dweller, or bringing along the RV, these spots offer the kind of nature-based escape that’s good for the heart.
This guide maps out the best camping getaways within 1 to 3 hours of Fort Worth—ideal for a Friday night arrival and a Sunday recharge. From state parks with hiking and kayaking to remote lakeside gems, each destination is ready to help you unwind under Texas skies.
Why Weekend Camping Near Fort Worth Is Totally Worth It
Fort Worth may be a bustling urban hub, but it’s surrounded by incredible natural escapes that make weekend road trips a breeze. Within just a couple of hours, you can swap traffic for tree canopies, concrete for dirt trails, and city lights for a glowing campfire. These spots are not only scenic—they’re budget-friendly, family-approved, and ideal for quick getaways.
Most parks and campgrounds near Fort Worth offer tent sites, RV hookups, and often even cabin rentals. You’ll also find picnic tables, water access, clean restrooms, and endless room to roam. Whether you want to stargaze, paddle, hike, or just do nothing at all—these getaways make it easy to find your wild.
Best Weekend Camping Getaways from Fort Worth
1. Lake Mineral Wells State Park
One of Fort Worth’s favorite close-to-home escapes, this park offers lakeside camping, rock climbing, hiking, and easy kayak access. It’s peaceful, scenic, and close enough for a spontaneous Friday departure.
Address: 100 Park Rd 71, Mineral Wells, TX 76067
Hours: Daily, 6 AM–10 PM; camping available overnight
Approx Cost: $7 per adult + campsite fees
Famous For: Rock formations, calm lake waters, and shady campgrounds
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try Penitentiary Hollow for a morning hike before packing up—gorgeous light and fewer people.
2. Cleburne State Park
Just an hour southwest of Fort Worth, Cleburne offers wooded trails, a small lake for kayaking or fishing, and a family-friendly campground with well-maintained sites and cabins. A hidden gem for peace and quiet.
Address: 5800 Park Rd 21, Cleburne, TX 76033
Hours: Daily, 6 AM–10 PM
Approx Cost: $6 per adult + campsite/cabin rental
Famous For: Secluded trails, spring-fed lake, and easy access from Fort Worth
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Campsites along the lakeshore fill quickly—book early if you want a water view.
3. Dinosaur Valley State Park
A perfect weekend getaway for families and nature lovers. Camp near ancient riverbeds filled with real dinosaur tracks, hike scenic ridges, and cool off in the Paluxy River. An unforgettable blend of education and outdoor fun.
Address: 1629 Park Rd 59, Glen Rose, TX 76043
Hours: Daily, 8 AM–10 PM
Approx Cost: $8 per adult + camping fees
Famous For: Fossil-rich river crossings, hiking, and family camping
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Choose a site near the river for easy morning walks to the dinosaur tracks.
4. Meridian State Park
Less than two hours from Fort Worth, this quiet lakeside park offers cozy cabins, shaded RV spots, and tent camping under mature oaks. With a scenic lake loop trail and birdwatching galore, it’s a peaceful weekend hideaway.
Address: 173 Park Rd 7, Meridian, TX 76665
Hours: Daily, 6 AM–10 PM
Approx Cost: $5 per adult + camping/cabin fees
Famous For: Serene lake camping and wildlife-rich trails
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a hammock—many sites are shaded and perfect for lounging.
5. Possum Kingdom State Park
If you’re craving cliffside lake views and a larger-than-life escape, Possum Kingdom is worth the 2.5-hour drive. The park has well-kept campgrounds, kayak rentals, fishing docks, and hiking trails with jaw-dropping scenery.
Address: 3901 State Park Rd 33, Caddo, TX 76429
Hours: Daily, 6 AM–10 PM
Approx Cost: $4 per adult + camping fees
Famous For: Stunning lake vistas, cliff views, and water-based recreation
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Hike the Lakeview Trail at golden hour for unforgettable views.
6. Fort Richardson State Park
History buffs and outdoor lovers will enjoy this combination of restored military buildings and well-shaded campgrounds. Located in Jacksboro, it offers hiking, fishing, and peaceful creekside campsites.
Address: 228 State Park Rd 61, Jacksboro, TX 76458
Hours: Daily, 8 AM–5 PM
Approx Cost: $4 per adult + camping
Famous For: Frontier history meets peaceful nature
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Take the Lost Creek Trail early in the morning for the best wildlife sightings.
7. Lake Whitney State Park
This lakeside park south of Fort Worth features wide-open skies, calm waters, and relaxed campgrounds. Perfect for stargazing, paddling, and grilling out while the sun sets over the lake.
Address: 433 FM 1244, Whitney, TX 76692
Hours: Daily, 6 AM–10 PM
Approx Cost: $5 per adult + campsite fees
Famous For: Stargazing, fishing, and peaceful waterfront camping
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit during a new moon for incredible night skies.
Road Trip Packing Tips for Weekend Camping
- Tent, sleeping bag, and ground pad
- Cooler with meals and snacks
- Camp stove or grill, fuel, and utensils
- Bug spray, sunscreen, and toiletries
- Headlamp and extra batteries
- Hiking boots or trail shoes
- Firewood, fire starter, and matches (check burn bans)
- Camp chairs and table
- Trash bags for cleanup
- Water jugs or filtration system (if primitive site)
Local Tips & Seasonal Advice for Camping Trips
Spring (March–May): Wildflowers and perfect temps—ideal for hiking and river camping.
Summer (June–August): Great for lake swimming and kayaking. Stay cool and hydrated.
Fall (September–November): Mild days, cool nights, and stunning foliage. Peak season for campsites.
Winter (December–February): Quieter parks and great for cozy cabins or RVs. Pack layers.
Book Early: Campsites and cabins fill up fast on weekends. Reserve online in advance.
Check for Burn Bans: Especially in summer. Bring a propane stove as backup.
Pets: Most parks allow leashed dogs. Bring their food, leash, and water bowl.
Final Thoughts: Reconnect, Reset, and Rest in Texas Nature
You don’t need a faraway vacation to reset your spirit—just a weekend and a tank of gas. Fort Worth’s surrounding parks make it easy to unplug, explore, and recharge with nature. These weekend camping getaways offer everything from dinosaur tracks and starlit lakes to cliffside trails and forested campsites.
Whether you’re stoking a fire under the stars or sipping coffee by a peaceful lake, these escapes invite you to slow down and savor Texas outdoors. So pack the cooler, roll out the sleeping bag, and let your next adventure begin.
