Cedar Hill State Park

3.93

94 reviews

1570 W. FM 1382, CEDAR HILL, Texas, 75104, United States

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

551 ft

Price

$5 - $7/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

300 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Texas State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

551 ft

Price

$5 - $7/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

300 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Texas State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Cedar Hill State Park

$5.00 - $7.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Day use fee is $7 per person aged 13 and older and overnight use is $5 per person aged 13 and older.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Reserve America

Provider

972-291-3900

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

3.93

Mixed Reviews

Based on 94 reviews

3244 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewssceneryprivacyspacious

Some mention

noise

"Reviews highlight the park's natural beauty, extensive recreational facilities, and proximity to urban areas. However, some complaints center on cleanliness, noise from other campers, and inconsistent maintenance."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1570 W. FM 1382, CEDAR HILL, Texas, 75104, United States

Cedar Hill State Park

1570 W. FM 1382, CEDAR HILL, Texas, 75104, United States

Driving directionsFrom Dallas: Take I-20 west to FM 1382 exit. Park is located 4.5 miles south on FM 1382. From Austin and Waco: Take I 35W (Ft Worth) and exit on Hwy 67 North at Alvarado. Travel approximately 25 miles to Cedar Hill. Take the FM 1382 exit. The park is located 2 miles West on FM 1382.

Road access is good with major highways nearby. FM 1382 provides direct access to the park, and it is paved. Seasonal closures or terrain challenges are not mentioned.

Nearby places

Cedar Hill (2 miles, approximately 5 minutes), Dallas (approximately 20 miles, 25–30 minutes), Fort Worth (approximately 35 miles, 40–50 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Camping supplies, groceries, and fuel are available in Cedar Hill, approximately 2 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Cedar Hill State Park

Each season paints Cedar Hill State Park with its own unique palette. Spring transforms the landscape into a vibrant canvas of wildflowers under perfectly mild skies, while summer brings warm days ideal for lake activities, punctuated by dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that cool the evening air. As autumn arrives, comfortable temperatures create perfect camping weather, and winter offers crisp, refreshing days that invite exploration without the crowds.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

2.5 / 5

Summer visits feature high temps, more bugs and crowded weekends despite swimming access.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Fall likely pleasant with milder weather and fewer summer issues; fewer explicit reviews noted.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and mild weather; reviewers praise spring visits.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round; mild Texas winters mean activities remain available but it's not a peak season.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Specific peak season dates are not provided.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Year-round availability.
Current Alerts: Construction on boat ramps and play areas. Some trails closed due to weather conditions.

About Cedar Hill State Park

Escape to Cedar Hill State Park, where 1,200 acres of pristine Texas wilderness await just beyond the city limits. This outdoor paradise beckons with the sparkling waters of Joe Pool Lake, miles of winding trails perfect for hiking and biking adventures, and camping options ranging from full RV hookups to secluded tent sites beneath towering trees. Whether you're seeking a weekend getaway or a day trip from the metroplex, this natural sanctuary offers the perfect blend of accessibility and untamed beauty.

Cedar Hill State Park offers multiple camping options, including RV sites with full hookups, tent sites, and primitive camping areas.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the Penn Farm historic site, where weathered buildings and preserved artifacts tell the story of 19th-century Texas agriculture. This living museum within the park grounds offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the hardy pioneers who first tamed this land, their farming techniques, and the daily rhythms of frontier life that shaped the region's character.

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Cedar Hill State Park with its own unique palette. Spring transforms the landscape into a vibrant canvas of wildflowers under perfectly mild skies, while summer brings warm days ideal for lake activities, punctuated by dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that cool the evening air. As autumn arrives, comfortable temperatures create perfect camping weather, and winter offers crisp, refreshing days that invite exploration without the crowds.

ElevationWhile Cedar Hill may not boast dramatic peaks, its gently rolling terrain creates an ever-changing landscape that delights hikers and cyclists alike. These mild elevation changes offer just enough variety to keep trails interesting, providing scenic vantage points without demanding strenuous climbs, making the park accessible to adventurers of all skill levels.

Natural Features and SceneryRolling hills cascade down to meet the shimmering expanse of Joe Pool Lake, creating postcard-perfect vistas from numerous scenic overlooks throughout the park. Native Texas wildflowers carpet the meadows in seasonal displays, while ancient oaks provide shady retreats. As darkness falls, fireflies dance through the warm air, and the haunting chorus of coyotes echoes across the hills, reminding visitors that despite its proximity to civilization, this remains a wild place where nature still reigns.

Geological RegionNestled in Texas's Region 6, Cedar Hill State Park showcases the characteristic beauty of the state's rolling hill country. The landscape tells an ancient story written in stone and soil, where gentle slopes meet the waters of Joe Pool Lake, creating a diverse ecosystem that represents the best of Texas's natural heritage. This geological tapestry provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures and quiet contemplation alike.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time details are not explicitly provided.

Check-out

Check-out time details are not explicitly provided.

Stay Limit

Reservations can be made for up to 14 consecutive nights
campers must vacate for one night before returning.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Not explicitly mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampsites are spread across loops, some with stairs or inclines. RV sites are larger and offer full hookups.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via official Texas State Parks platforms.

Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly stated in the source materials.

Cancellation PolicyCampers are encouraged to cancel or modify reservations as soon as possible if plans change.

AccessibilityRestrooms are approximately 2-3 minutes from most camping places, and firewood is available close to the entrance. More specific accessibility details are not provided.

Site SizeSites vary in size, with some large enough to accommodate multiple vehicles and tents. Specific mentions include, 'Our space is big enough for 2 large tents,' and 'site #336 was pretty big.

PrivacyPrivacy levels differ by site. Some areas offer dense greenery for privacy, while others are described as open. A user remarked, 'Enough foliage in between camps for some privacy, even when full.

Total Campsites300 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites away from busy roads to reduce noise. Sites with lake views offer better scenery but can be windy. Avoid sites with significant incline if tent camping.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Cedar Hill State Park offers a wide range of recreational activities, including extensive hiking and mountain biking trails, fishing, boating, water skiing, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

HikingThe park features multiple hiking trails, including the popular DORBA trails, which have loops ranging from 8 to 12 miles. Reviews describe the trails as peaceful and scenic, with one user noting, 'The DORBA loop trails are primarily for mountain bikers, so keep alert.' Paved trails remain open during rain closures.

FishingFishing is permitted, with a well-maintained fishing pier available. No specific details are provided about types of fish or fishing quality.

SwimmingSwimming areas are available and include at least two swimming spots. However, one reviewer noted, 'We paid to all get swimmer’s itch from swimming,' indicating potential water quality concerns at times.

BikingMountain biking is a highlight of the park, with trails such as the DORBA loops offering varied terrain. A user described the experience as, 'great biking!'

BoatingBoating activities include kayaking and paddleboarding. A reviewer shared, 'We used one of the paddleboards and paddled across the lake.' A boat ramp is also available.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a notable activity, with mentions of fireflies, coyotes, ducks, and rabbits. A user also described seeing a roadrunner.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsAnt infestations, uneven ground, and muddy trails after rain. Wildlife includes coyotes and scorpions. Swimmer's itch has been reported due to water quality issues.

Active AlertsConstruction on boat ramps and play areas. Some trails closed due to weather conditions.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed, but specific rules are not detailed. Firewood is available for purchase.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are generally expected but not well-enforced, especially during weekends.

Emergency ServicesPolice station and ranger station within the park. Hospitals and emergency services are accessible in nearby Cedar Hill.

Trash & RecyclingRecycling facilities and trash hooks are present at individual campsites, as noted by reviewers. Specific details about pickup schedules or centralized locations are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesThe park is located on Joe Pool Lake, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, and paddling.

Camp HostPark staff and rangers are described as friendly and helpful, but limited enforcement of rules like quiet hours has been noted.

Weather at Cedar Hill State Park

Reviews

3.9

94 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Cedar Hill State Park has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews highlight the park's natural beauty, extensive recreational facilities, and proximity to urban areas. However, some complaints center on cleanliness, noise from other campers, and inconsistent maintenance.

Review Summaries

Based on 94 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the park's hiking and biking trails, lake views, and spacious campsites. Specific mentions include, 'Amazing scenery,' 'Great lake access,' and 'Dense greenery between campsites gives a...

Based on 94 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include noisy campers, cleanliness problems in restrooms ('Filthy, we counted 8 spiders'), and ant infestations. One reviewer noted, 'The primitive campsites are terrible, literally...

Based on 94 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring insect repellent due to ants and bugs. Avoid primitive campsites if you prefer comfort. Consider quieter weekdays for visits.

Based on 94 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer visits are marked by high temperatures and bugs, while spring offers blooming wildflowers and cooler weather. Weekends tend to be busy, with noise complaints more common.

Based on 94 reviews

Camper Quotes

'This spring has been exceptionally beautiful with all the flowers.' 'Our site was big enough for 2 large tents.' 'The park is clean and going through some improvements.'

Based on 94 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #336 is described as large but noisy due to loud neighbors. Sites near the Coyote Loop offer great lake views. Primitive campsites have been criticized as poorly maintained.

Based on 94 reviews