The best camping near Cleburne State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Cleburne State Park adventure.

67% (5 reviews)
67% (5 reviews)

Escape to this tranquil lakeside retreat to fish, hike, and camp beneath the stars.  

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Community favorites near Cleburne State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Cleburne State Park

99%
(586)

Pecans on the Paluxy - River Views

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Glen Rose, TX
Pitch your tent or boondock your RV on the Paluxy River under giant pecan trees. Enjoy the scenic view of our beautiful river. Our private property is located near the historic square of glen rose but feels like you are miles away in the country. Have fun kayaking, swimming, fishing, or just sit back and enjoy the views. We have 5 different spacious sites to choose from. Most have a tree break area in-between for privacy. Or rent all 5 and have the entire property to yourself. Updated river photos will be posted on our Facebook page, or message me for updates. Unfortunately, I'm not able to control the river. It goes up and down depending on rain and temperatures. The river gets pretty low during July and August. Wheeler Branch Reservoir(only a few miles from camp) is a great spot to swim and fish when the river water levels are lower. Very small lake that is good for swimming and kayaking with a dock, clear waters. We have 5 different sites. All of them overlook the Paluxy River, have rock fire pits, seating areas, patios, and stairs down to riverbed. You will have access to one of the most beautiful parts of the Paluxy River. During drought conditions and high temperatures I always recommend keeping your head above water and avoiding stagnant areas in the river. In order to reserve a spot you must be 21 or over. This is not a extremely remote place where you can party and go crazy. We want everyone to be able to sit back, relax and enjoy the views. Site Big Pecan: This is the farthest site upriver and has one of the largest pecan trees I've ever seen. The trees provide great shade cover during the summer. This site has an awesome rock patio seating area with 2 wooden Adirondack chairs overlooking the river with stairs to provide easy access down into the water. It also has a rock firepit with 2 wooden Adirondack chairs on a rock patio. Also includes a kids sand box, and a picnic table with shade umbrella, and numerous extras available to rent. Site 1 Limestone ledge: Firepit seating area overlooking the river with 4 Adirondack chairs and a shade umbrella, separate rock patio closer to the water overlooking the river with 2 wooden rocking chairs, stairs down to riverbed, huge pecan trees, kids play set with sand box, 1 picnic table, shade umbrella, and a 10' x 10' raised tent deck platform overlooking the river. Site 2: Firepit seating area overlooking limestone riverbed with 3 Adirondack chairs, picnic table with a shade umbrella, 10' x 10' raised tent / deck platform, stairs down to riverbed and shallow area of the river for kids to play. Awesome view of the river with trees / shrubs on each side for privacy. Site 3: Firepit seating area overlooking the riverbed, 2 wooden Adirondack chairs, 2 picnic tables, 1 shade umbrella, 2 sets of rock stairs to the riverbed, shallow area of the river for kids to play. Awesome view of the river with trees / shrubs on each side for privacy. Site 4 Farthest site downstream. Nice rock patio overlooking the river with two wooden rocking chairs. Easy access for RVs and trailers. Rock stairs to the river for easy access. Fire pit with rock patio around it with 4 wooden Adirondack chairs. Picnic table with shade umbrella. Kids sand box. Shallow areas for kids to play in the river. Deeper fishing hole about 100 feet down river. Great area to sit in the river with a lawn chair. Awesome view of the river with trees / shrubs on each side for privacy. A lot of people buy two sites for more privacy and room for larger groups. For example, many purchase Big Pecan and site 1 together. Or sites 2 and 3. kayaks, wood, outdoor games, frisbee golf baskets and disc, grill and utensils, propane firepit, and other extras available for rent. Please select those during checkout Tips: Bring river shoes, nose plugs, swimming essentials. Parts of the river can be very slippery. Bring life jackets, especially for children. Bring the essentials for any camping trip including: sunscreen, bug spray, anti-itch meds, etc. Chairs and sunshades to sit in the river are always popular. The Paluxy river ranges from just a few inches deep to 5 feet deep in our camping area. There are more swimming holes a little deeper up and downstream. Water is available at the entrance. No restroom - pack in, pack out. Bring your own potty and water. If you are not familiar with dry camping do some research. There are all types of methods for restrooms, heating, cooling, etc. available now to make it enjoyable. Dogs are allowed on leash. Please do not allow your dog to roam freely if they are aggressive in nature. Clean up after them. Cancellation Policy: You may cancel up to 3 days before your stay for a full refund. Weekends during peak seasons (March - June & September - November) are non-refundable unless canceled and another camper reserves the site. I do offer partial refunds for extreme weather conditions. Activities Nearby: Dinosaur Valley State Park (Hiking, Biking, Swimming) - 4.5 miles Fossil Rim Wildlife Center (Drive through the park) - 3.9 miles Historic Glen Rose Square (Eat, shop) - .5 miles Big Rocks Park (Free, Kids love to crawl on the huge boulders and wade in the river) - 1.3 miles Oakdale Park (Swimming pool, playground) - 1.4 miles Paluxy Heritage Park / River Walk (Free, Pretty walk, Connects to Big Rocks dam)- 1.2 miles Somervell County Museum (Free, donation) - .7 miles Wheeler Branch Reservoir - (small lake, good kayak fishing, clear)Expo Center (Rodeos, dog shows, different events depending on schedule) Places to eat:*Hammonds BBQ - 2 miles*Sexton Feed Mill Grill/Bar (River View) - .7 miles Los Primos Mexican Food/Bar - 1.7 miles*Mama Mia Mexican Cuisine -*Riverhouse Grill (Lil more upscale) - .4 miles*The Green Pickle (Hamburgers) - .7 milesLa Vita Italian Food - .7 miles*Big Cup Eatery (Breakfast, Dinner) - .9 miles* Storiebook Cafe (Sandwiches, wraps)- .8 miles Beehive Cafe - (hamburgers, Mexican food)Simple Simons (Pizza, calzones) -Snyder's Tavern Bar - .5 miles Blackies Bar/Grill - .7 miles Bull Lion Ranch Winery - .7 miles*Shoo-Fly Soda Shop (Ice-cream, pies) - .7 miles*Loco Coyote Grill/Bar (BBQ) - 8.8 miles Crave Bakery (coffee, pastries) - .8 miles*Grounded Coffee Shop (Coffee, salad bar)Debbie’s Restaurant (Breakfast) -Tiger Corner (Pastries, Sandwiches) -Subway -Sugar Biscuits (Lil Everything) -Teriyaki Chinese Food -Sunshine Doughnuts - *Rough Creek Lodge (upscale reservations, lunch $25, Dinner $125) - 15 miles*Overlook Cafe Fossil Rim (Free by bypassing main entrance, hamburgers, awesome view, petting zoo, gift shop) - 4 miles 7-Eleven Laredo Taco -Tacote (breakfast burritos, lunch) Cancellation Policy: You have until 3 days before your arrival to cancel for a full refund. This is strictly enforced for weekends or holidays. Credits for future stays are not available due to insurance reasons. Cancel as soon as you can. If you cancel after the 3 day period, but I am able to fill the site a refund will be given minus any fees incurred. Please understand there is only 5 sites at this location. A late cancellation hurts our business and those families that wanted to reserve a spot.
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$44.10
 / night
100%
(54)

Wild 2 Wonderful Ranch

15 sites · RVs, Tents56 acres · Mansfield, TX
Book now and receive a Free Bundle of Firewood ( upon request ) Our Open Prairie Area is perfect for viewing Starry Night Skies, Wild 2 Wonderful Ranch has 4 generations, Living on Ranch, We are right outside Mansfield Texas city limits. We are hard at work reclaiming the land to make it a park like setting. You are 2 miles from old Downtown Mansfield. ( Several quaint shops and restaurants ) There are large open areas and also forest areas. Sit outside and watch the stars and the wildlife, enjoy the peace and quiet of the country with city and stores close by Our camping areas are large and accommodate large groups or small ones THE EXPRESSIONS OF WILD 2 WONDERFUL: As the morning crests the Texas horizon, imagine waking up the serene beauty of a pastural oasis just a stones throw away from urban convenience. here, just beyond the bustling city limits of Mansfield, Texas, awaits an RV camping haven for nature enthusiasts and city explorers alike. Spanning across a reclaimed expanse that exudes a park-like tranquility, our rich verdant landscape offers spacious camping areas ideal for both intimate and sizable RV groups. Whether you're looking to bask in the majesty of star-studded night skies or to witness the gentle parade of local wildlife, the merger of rustic charm with unrestrained freedom is sure to enrich you RV camping experience. Located 2 miles from the historic heart of downtown Mansfield, Campers can indulge in the local charm of quaint shops and inviting restaurant. Meanwhile, adventure seekers and families will revel in the proximity to a wealth of the region's lush flora and innovative water features. Our RV camping retreat offers a balance rarely found a nexus where pastural beauty meets urban excitement, leaving you with an escape that caters to peace-seekers and thrill-seekers alike. Set up camp where generations have sown the seed of hospitality and embraced the blend of nature's touch with the convenience of city amenities at your fingertips. Joe Pool Lake is within 10 miles Texas Ranger Stadium (Globe life field) 21 miles AT&T Stadium ( Dallas Cowboys stadium) 21 miles Traders Village Flea Market 16 miles Hawaiian Falls water park 6.8 miles Six Flags over Texas 20 miles Six Flags Hurricane Harbor 22 miles Downtown Dallas Historic District 37 miles Ft Worth Stock Yards 25 miles Parks Mall at Arlington 16 miles State Hwy 287 3.5 miles State Hwy 360 5.9 miles Interstate 20 16 miles Mans Best Field Dog park. 1.8 miles Ft worth Botanical Gardens 26 miles Ft worth Water Gardens 23 miles
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$12
 / night
97%
(505)

EcoRich Ranch

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Bluff Dale, TX
Come stay on our 100 acre Richard Creek Valley getaway, gently tucked away on the north slope. There are four campsites on the property and they are all at least 150 yards away from each other. Each site is private. When the ground is dry there is access for all vehicles. When the ground is muddy, Brookside, RiverRock, and Richardson Creek campsites require a 4-wheel drive and have alternate routes to get to them. Ancient Oaks is an all-weather site. You can enjoy hiking and swimming in Richardson Creek when water levels permit. Canoeing from Bakers Crossing put-in which is only 3 miles away. Some places to check out while you are here include Dinosaur Valley State Park, Dinosaur World, Granbury Historic Square, Stephenville Rodeo, Bakers Crossing River Put-In, Oakdale Plunge Pool, and BigRocks Park in Glen Rose. Please no loud noises after 9:00 pm as this is quiet time, out of respect for other campers.
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$35
 / night
100%
(24)

High Hope Ranch

10 sites · RVs, Tents1000 acres · Walnut Springs, TX
Welcome to High Hope Ranch, a sprawling 1000-acre sanctuary nestled atop the majestic Texas Hill Country. As you traverse the rolling hills, you'll be greeted by breathtaking vistas that stretch out to the north, offering sweeping views of The Great Plains beyond. Immerse yourself in the rich history and natural wonders of the ranch, where millions of years of geological evolution have left their mark. Explore the rugged terrain and discover prehistoric ravines carved by ancient oceans, adorned with fascinating oceanic fossils such as sand dollars, sea urchins, and ammonites. Our camping sites offer a primitive yet immersive experience, allowing you to connect with nature in its purest form. Pitch your tent amidst fields of vibrant bluebonnets in April, or revel in the splendor of the Milky Way under the October sky. For a truly enchanting experience, set up camp alongside the flowing creeks at sites like Uchawi, where the soothing sound of water creates a tranquil ambiance. Embark on an adventure along over 20 miles of hiking trails that wind through the ranch's diverse landscapes, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Be sure to schedule a visit to our working farm, where you can interact with friendly animals like pigs, goats, and Zoey the Donkey, gaining insight into sustainable farming practices and animal husbandry. Before you depart, don't forget to visit our Farm Store, where you can stock up on a variety of farm-fresh delights, including pasture-raised meats, canned goods, and freshly harvested produce grown right here on the ranch. At High Hope Ranch, we invite you to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and embrace the serenity and splendor of the Texas Hill Country. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature, our ranch offers a sanctuary where dreams take flight and memories are made to last a lifetime. Welcome to High Hope Ranch, where the spirit of the land beckons you to explore, discover, and thrive.
Potable water
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from 
$20
 / night

The best camping near Cleburne State Park guide

Overview

About

Less than an hour from Fort Worth, Cleburne State Park provides an idyllic setting for a rural retreat. The 116-acre Cedar Lake is the headline act, where you can explore by paddle boat, canoe, or kayak; cool off with a swim; or fish for your supper (bass, crappie, and catfish are common catches). Away from the waterfront, the 13 miles of forest trails provide ample terrain for hikers and mountain bikers. The Cleburne Campground has five loops to choose from, all with electric hook-ups. Whether you decide to camp lakeside, creekside, or in the woods, you’re never far from the water.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve one of the park’s 59 campsites in advance via the Texas State Parks website. 
  2. Campsite reservations open five months in advance, while the group campsite can be booked up to 12 months in advance. 
  3. Campsites can book up as fast, especially for summer and holiday weekends—book at least three months in advance for the best shot.

When to go

Cleburne State Park is open year-round, and its proximity to Fort Worth means it can get busy on weekends, even in the off-season. Summer (June through August) is the busiest period and the ideal time for swimming and boating. The wooded trails around the lake are particularly colorful in fall, with their cloak of foliage, while winter visitors can enjoy the best birding opportunities around the lake. 

Know before you go

  • Cleburne State Park is located 45 miles southwest of Fort Worth, or about a 45-minute drive away.
  • Park entrance fees are required in addition to camping fees. General entrance reservations can be made up to one month in advance.
  • Facilities in the park include restrooms, picnic benches, and a park store selling souvenirs, fishing supplies, and soft drinks. You can purchase groceries, firewood, and camping supplies in Cleburne, a 15-minute drive away.
  • Campsites all have electricity, wifi, and fire rings. There are also sites with full hook-ups.
  • All motorized boats are prohibited within the park.

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