jbrooks1

I'm new to the site and appreciate the collective experience.

A few buddies and I are heading out for our annual camping trip this weekend. Over the years we have camped all over the great state. Unfortunately, many of our old stomping grounds now are in earshot of big fancy homes. It’s just not the same.

We are looking to find a place with in 2 hours of Dallas - preferably south or west - such as Possum Kingdom, Dinosaur Valley, etc.

Because we will have some kids with us this time, we prefer to pitch tents in a "primitive drive-up" spot that is secluded yet accessible by car. A lake or nice river view would be preferred. We will also have a few kids-size ATVs so some dirt roads would be fun - my guess is that these are not allowed in State Parks.


Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Troop198

Your right about the ATV's, As to sites Dino Valley is nice and is descibed in many posts in this site, If you have to go West or South also look at Ft Richardson SP, it is next to a Lake if thats important and has a nice trailway, Inks Lake and the nearby Longhorn Caverns is south for another option.

Otherwise highly recommend nice walk in sites at Copper Lake South Unit.
Lots to do there with kids. 30 minutes closer Lake Tawakani SP is good too.

Turn Key

Welcome and I hope we can help. As you said, those ATV's are not welcome in SP's. If you can go a bit further, you might look at Canyon of the Eagles down near Burnett. It's a private resort so the ATV's may be welcome. Took a look at it a couple of years ago. They have some very nice, secluded, "drive-in" tent sites. Might be worth a look;

Texas Hill Country Resorts, Lake Buchanan Family Vacations, Reunions-Canyon of the Eagles

Hope this helps and again, welcome to WildTexas!

Happy Camping!

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toejam

I suggest LBJ National Grasslands. The area near Decatur would be good for wnat you want to do.

Cadd-LBJ National Grasslands - Recreation Opportunities

Black Creek lake would be great. There are some spots on the road between Black Creek Lake and Cottonwood Lake where people camp. It's not a campground and you don't pay.

jbrooks1

thank you all - I will investigate these and let you know what we end up doing. I appreciate your help!