Cedar Ridge (Tx)
4.40591 reviews3790 Cedar Ridge Park Rd.
Cedar Ridge (Tx)
$20.00 - $200.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$20.00
Group Site Fee$200.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Electric: $30-$60, Tent Only Electric: $20, Group Shelter Electric: $100-$120, Group Standard Area Electric: $200, Overnight Shelter Electric: $40. Additional administrative fees for changes ($10) and late cancellations (first night fee forfeited).
About this campground
Discover your perfect lakeside escape at Cedar Ridge, where the shimmering waters of Belton Lake create an outdoor paradise open all seasons. From cozy screened shelters that blend comfort with nature to a full-service marina buzzing with aquatic adventures, this versatile destination transforms every stay into a memorable experience. Families splash in designated swimming beaches while anglers launch from convenient boat ramps, and nature enthusiasts find endless trails where deer tracks cross your path and hawks circle overhead.
Cedar Ridge Park accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping in designated areas. Screened shelters are available for those seeking simple accommodations.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape where military heritage meets natural beauty, as Cedar Ridge sits proudly adjacent to the historic Fort Hood Army Base. The stunning spillway mural at nearby Belton Dam serves as a canvas telling Bell County's rich story—from Native American roots through pioneer settlements to modern times. This unique proximity creates a fascinating blend where visitors can explore both the area's military significance and its role in Texas's cultural tapestry.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Texas seasons at Cedar Ridge, where summer days invite you to cool off in the lake as temperatures climb into the inviting 90s. Winter brings a gentle reprieve with crisp mornings in the 30s warming to comfortable 50-degree afternoons—perfect for hiking without the crowds. Spring arrives in a spectacular burst of color as wildflowers carpet the hillsides, while moderate rainfall throughout the year keeps the landscape lush and green. Even the occasional winter snowfall adds a magical touch to the limestone bluffs.
ElevationThe gentle rolling terrain of Cedar Ridge provides natural vantage points overlooking Belton Lake, creating picturesque camping spots at varying heights throughout the park.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched along the scenic shores of Belton Lake, Cedar Ridge showcases nature's artistry with dramatic white limestone bluffs that glow in the sunset light. The partially forested landscape creates a perfect balance of dappled shade and sunny meadows, where wild turkeys strut through campsites and deer graze at dawn. Birdsong fills the air as various species make their homes in the canopy above, while spring transforms the entire area into a natural garden blooming with vibrant Texas wildflowers.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of Central Texas where the Leon River forms beautiful Belton Lake, Cedar Ridge showcases the region's distinctive geological character. The striking white limestone bluffs tell a story millions of years in the making, while man-made wetlands attract diverse wildlife and create unique ecosystems. This thoughtfully preserved landscape offers campers a mix of sunny meadows and shaded forest groves, all shaped by the ancient limestone foundation that defines this remarkable corner of the Texas Hill Country.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has a mix of shaded and sunny sites, some of which are directly on the shoreline. Accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not detailed, but large RV sites are available.
Sites SizeCampsites can accommodate both tents and RVs. Sizes vary, with some sites noted for being large and spacious.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some areas offer spacious setups with good distance between sites, while others are more clustered. Certain sites near dump stations or restrooms may experience more noise and traffic.
Total Campsites76 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose waterfront sites for better views. Sections like Turkey Roost are ideal for group camping. Avoid sites close to dumpsters due to odor complaints.
Best CampsitesSites 41, 42, 55, and 56 are often praised for lake views and wildlife sightings.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay: 14 consecutive nights within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Specific guest limits are not detailed.
Groups
The Turkey Roost group camping area includes 10 sites with water and electric hookups. It features a large pavilion, volleyball court, and horseshoe pit. It can host up to 100 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutDivided into two sections: East side (fishing dock, playground, swim beach) and West side (marina, group shelters, volleyball courts, horseshoe pit).
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with partial closures from Nov 1 to Mar 1 (Sites 1-40 and screened shelters close).
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via recreation.gov website or app.
Walk-in AvailabilityUnknown; reservations appear mandatory as noted in site rules and reviews.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are required. Cancellations are subject to a $10 administrative fee; late cancellations incur first-night fee penalties.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Cedar Ridge Park provides a diverse range of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. The park features 136 miles of shoreline, making it ideal for water sports and birdwatching.
Hiking
The park includes hiking trails, but detailed information on trail lengths or difficulty is not provided. Guest reviews highlight the scenic beauty along the trails.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, with Belton Lake offering a variety of fish species. Some reviews noted issues with low water levels affecting fishing locations.Swimming
The designated family swimming beach provides a safe area for water activities. Reviews generally describe the beach as clean and well-maintained.Boating
Two multi-lane boat ramps with courtesy docks make boating convenient. The marina offers fuel and basic supplies for boaters.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife enthusiasts can spot deer, turkeys, and various bird species, including hawks and great blue herons. Seasonal wildflowers enhance the experience.Beach activities
The swimming beach is a primary location for beach-related activities. Reviews emphasize its cleanliness and family-friendly atmosphere.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned, but the campground remains open year-round.Water Sports
Ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and other non-motorized water sports, though specific facilities are not detailed.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire pits only. Cutting trees for firewood prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM daily.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include ticks, rattlesnakes, and occasional flooding in low-lying areas. Some reviews mention ants at campsites.
Active alertsNone noted.
Weather forecast
93
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital: Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Temple, 10 miles away. Police and fire departments are also located within Temple. Emergency ranger assistance provided locally within the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31 (no seasonal fluctuations indicated).
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but some reviews noted delayed trash collection. Recycling options are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Belton Lake, with boat ramps and fishing docks. Swimming beach available seasonally.
Common complaintsElectric issues (breaker trips), unclean restrooms, high grass/weeds at campsites, poor management demeanor at check-in.
HostVolunteer campground hosts provide assistance onsite. Specific contact information not provided.
Campground Map
3790 Cedar Ridge Park Rd.
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 35 in Temple, Texas take State Highway 36 west towards Gatesville. Turn left on Cedar Ridge Park Road and continue into the park and campground area.
Accessible year-round. Roads are paved within the campground. Seasonal closures are noted for specific sections, but main routes remain functional.Nearby places
Temple (7 miles, 15 minutes), Belton (14 miles, 25 minutes), Killeen (30 miles, 45 minutes), Waco (45 miles, 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Convenience store located onsite at the marina offering basic goods and fuel. Larger stores like Walmart in Temple (10 miles) available for more extensive shopping needs.
Camper Reviews
4.4
591 reviews
Cedar Ridge (Tx) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Cedar Ridge Park range from highly positive to critical. Many visitors praise the park's natural beauty, spacious sites, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. However, there are recurring complaints about maintenance issues, particularly with restrooms and electrical hookups.
Review Summaries
Based on 591 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews highlight the park's scenic beauty, abundant wildlife, spacious campsites, and friendly staff. Guests also appreciate the well-maintained swimming beach and opportunities for fishing...
Based on 591 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include maintenance issues such as malfunctioning electrical hookups, cleanliness problems in restrooms, and delayed trash collection. Some visitors also noted overcrowding during...
Based on 591 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own grill and firewood, as some amenities may not be functional. Confirm the working condition of electrical and water hookups before arrival. Consider off-peak visits for a quieter...
Based on 591 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Peak seasons see higher occupancy and occasional maintenance delays. Winter visitors often report partial closures, and some amenities may be unavailable. Spring and fall are noted for their pleasant...
Based on 591 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Beautiful park with lots of room between RVs." - Cheryl M. "The deer and turkey roaming the area were a delightful sight." - Michael T. "Bathrooms were in poor condition and needed better...
Based on 591 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #66 had electrical issues. Site #42 offers a great lake view but had drainage problems. Turkey Roost group area is highly praised for its spacious layout and amenities.
Based on 591 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not extensively reviewed, but large RV sites are noted as a positive feature.
Based on 591 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed. Some visitors appreciated the pet-friendly atmosphere, while others noted the importance of leashing pets and cleaning up after them.
Based on 591 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025