Westcliff
4.27130 reviews4200 Westcliff Rd, Belton, TX, 76513, USA
Westcliff
$20.00 - $30.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fee ranges are $20 for tent-only sites (electric or nonelectric) and $30 for standard electric sites. Day-use fees apply during open hours.
About this campground
Perched on the southwestern shores of Belton Lake, Westcliff Campground invites adventurers to choose their perfect basecamp among 31 thoughtfully designed sites. Whether you prefer the convenience of electric hookups or the authentic experience of primitive tent camping, you'll find yourself just steps away from pristine fishing spots, boat launches, and refreshing swimming areas that make every day feel like a lakeside vacation.
Westcliff Park accommodates a variety of camping styles, including RV camping, tent camping, and primitive camping. The campground features 31 sites, 27 of which have electric hookups, and 4 are designated as primitive tent-only sites without hookups.
Historical SignificanceStep into the pages of Texas history at nearby Belton Dam, where a captivating mural brings Bell County's rich heritage to life through vibrant storytelling. The campground's proximity to Fort Hood Army Base adds another layer of significance, connecting visitors to the proud military traditions that have shaped this region for generations.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for water activities, though Mother Nature occasionally stirs up dramatic wind storms that sweep across the lake—a reminder of the raw beauty of Central Texas. While moderate rainfall keeps the landscape lush and green, travelers should note that off-season closures allow the campground to rest and rejuvenate for the busy months ahead.
ElevationFrom your clifftop vantage point at Westcliff, the world unfolds below in a spectacular panorama. The campground's bluff-top position rewards early risers with stunning sunrises over Belton Lake and offers cool evening breezes that whisper through the sites as the day winds down.
Natural Features and SceneryWestcliff's open landscape dotted with welcoming shade trees creates the perfect balance between sunny spots for activities and cool retreats for relaxation. The commanding bluff views transform Belton Lake into your personal postcard, while the surrounding habitat comes alive with graceful deer at dusk, water birds gliding across the surface, and the distinctive call of wild turkeys echoing through the morning air.
Geological RegionRising dramatically above Belton Lake—a stunning 12,300-acre aquatic playground crafted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1954—Westcliff Campground showcases the best of Central Texas geology. The lake's intricate shoreline weaves through hidden coves and peaceful inlets, creating a water wonderland that serves as home to diverse wildlife. Here, where ancient limestone bluffs meet modern recreation, visitors witness the harmonious blend of deer grazing in meadows, wild turkeys strutting through clearings, and countless water birds painting the sky with their graceful flight patterns.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in official sources or user reviews. Accessibility may be limited in some areas.
Sites SizeThe campground offers spacious sites, with specific mentions of large sites near the water. Some users noted that the sites in the lower loop are pull-through and face the water.
Sites PrivacySite privacy is mixed. Some users appreciated the spacing between sites, while others mentioned that sites are close together. Most sites provide lake views, but shade is limited.
Total Campsites31 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the water offer the best views but lack shade; shaded sites like 23 are suitable for those avoiding direct sun.
Best CampsitesReviewers highlight sites 15 and 16 for their water access and views. Primitive tent sites (e.g., T-01 and T-04) are praised for their lakefront locations.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights within any rolling 30-day period.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are organized into loops, with upper sites offering better shade and lower sites providing direct water access.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season: March 1 to October 31. Off-season closures: November 1 to March 1.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov website and app.
Walk-in AvailabilityDay-use parking and first-come-first-served availability for certain areas are supported, but not for overnight campsites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before arrival incur a $10 fee; late cancellations also forfeit the first night's fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and lose the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Westcliff Park offers a range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The campground's proximity to the lake makes it ideal for water-based activities. There is also a playground for children and a seasonal swim beach.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Belton Lake, with species such as hybrid striped bass, largemouth bass, white bass, catfish, and sunfish commonly caught. Campers have praised the lake's fishing opportunities, with some mentioning that they could fish directly from their campsites.Swimming
Westcliff Park features a seasonal swim beach, which is roped off for safety. The beach is a highlight for families, offering a designated area for children to play in the water. Some campsites near the water also provide easy access for swimming.Boating
A multi-lane boat ramp and courtesy dock are available for campers and day-use visitors. Campers have noted the convenience of being able to dock boats near their campsites.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, wild turkey, Great Blue herons, ducks, geese, songbirds, and occasional bald eagles. The lake also features a man-made wetland for additional wildlife habitat.Beach activities
Beach-related activities are centered around the swim beach, which is seasonal. Families enjoy sunbathing and playing in the sand.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, as the park is closed for camping from November 1 to March 1.Water Sports
Water-based activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding are popular due to the lake's accessibility, but no specific rentals or facilities are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless burn bans are in effect. Firewood cutting on USACE property is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsReviews indicate occasional water and power outages, and concerns about loose dogs and noise disruptions.
Active alertsBurn bans and low lake levels have been reported. Seasonal closures apply.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.1 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
The nearest emergency services include a hospital in Belton (approx. 4 miles) and the nearest police station in nearby Temple (approx. 12 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1 to October 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available throughout the campground, with users noting that dumpsters are easy to access.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Belton Lake with some shoreline campsites. The lake supports fishing, swimming, and boating.
Common complaintsComplaints include unkempt grounds, inconsistent enforcement of rules especially regarding pets, and water/power outages.
HostPark hosts are generally helpful and attentive, although some reviews criticize overzealous rule enforcement.
Campground Map
4200 Westcliff Rd, Belton, TX, 76513, USA
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 35 in Belton, Texas take the 294 exit (6th Avenue or Farm-to-Market Road 93) west. Turn north onto 317 (Main Street) and drive for two miles. Turn west on FM 439 (Lake Road) and go four miles. Turn right on Sparta Road, then take a right on Westcliff Park Road to the park.
Westcliff Park is accessible via paved roads for most of the route, with clear signage directing visitors. However, seasonal closures affect parts of the park beyond the main road and boat ramp.Nearby places
Belton (approx. 4 miles), Temple (approx. 12 miles), Killeen (approx. 25 miles), Salado (approx. 20 miles)
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies, groceries, and fuel are available in Belton, located about 4 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.3
130 reviews
Westcliff is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Westcliff Park are highly varied. Positive aspects include the beautiful lake views, spacious campsites, and friendly staff. However, maintenance issues, noise disturbances, and inconsistent enforcement of rules are frequently mentioned complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 130 reviews
What Campers Love
Many campers praised the park's lakefront views, spacious campsites, and family-friendly atmosphere. 'The best place to stay in Central Texas,' noted one reviewer. Facilities like the playground and...
Based on 130 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include poor maintenance, such as high grass and weeds, as well as issues with water and electricity outages. Noise disturbances, such as loud music and barking dogs, were also...
Based on 130 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing shade structures due to limited tree cover, as well as preparing for potential noise disturbances at night. Early reservations are advised due to high demand during peak...
Based on 130 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Positive experiences are often reported during spring and fall due to mild weather. Summer reviews highlight the swim beach but also mention the lack of shade and high temperatures. Maintenance...
Based on 130 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'This park never disappoints!' 'Showers had great water pressure but the window above kinda creeped me out.' 'We love being steps from the water for fishing and kayaking.' 'Grass was high and needed...
Based on 130 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site reviews are mixed. Sites near the water, such as 15 and 20, are praised for their views and accessibility. However, some sites struggled with maintenance issues like high grass or poor...
Based on 130 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 130 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but leash rules are reportedly not enforced, leading to complaints about loose dogs disturbing other campers. 'The DOG ON LEASH RULES are never enforced,' one reviewer noted.
Based on 130 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025