If you’re searching for a tranquil, tight-knit neighborhood in North Dallas with all the perks of city living, the Highlands of McKamy is a community you’ll want on your shortlist. Nestled just east of Preston Road and stretching between Campbell Road and La Sobrina Drive, this tree-lined enclave offers a welcoming atmosphere, excellent schools, and the kind of quiet that’s increasingly rare in a bustling city like Dallas. Here’s what it’s really like to call Highland of McKamy home.
A Down-to-Earth, Friendly Community Vibe
Newcomers to the Highlands of McKamy are often struck by the genuine friendliness that permeates the neighborhood. Residents wave from their yards, children ride bikes along Withers Drive, and it’s common to see longtime homeowners chatting with new arrivals on evening walks. Neighborhood events—like holiday gatherings at the McKamy Greenbelt or occasional block parties along Pinoak Drive—foster a sense of belonging.
What sets this area apart is its neighborly spirit. People move here to put down roots. Many have lived on streets like Vistadale or Duffield for decades, drawn by the supportive community and peaceful setting. Whether you’re a young family or a retiree, it’s easy to fit in and find friendly faces.
Abundant and Attractive Housing Options
Most homes in the Highlands of McKamy were built in the 1980s, boasting mature trees, sizable lots, and attractive facades. You’ll find:
- Spacious single-family homes—ranging from classic ranch styles to updated contemporaries
- Well-maintained lawns and landscaping, often with established oak and pecan trees
- Quiet cul-de-sacs like La Sobrina, perfect for kids’ outdoor play
Many houses have seen tasteful updates over the years, featuring open-concept interiors, hardwood floors, and renovated kitchens. Because of the larger-than-average lot sizes, the neighborhood never feels cramped, and there’s plenty of room for additions or backyard spaces.
Walkability and Everyday Conveniences
Highlands of McKamy isn’t quite as walkable as some inner-city Dallas neighborhoods, but for suburban North Dallas, it scores high marks. Sidewalks border most streets, and the wide, shady roads make morning jogs or evening strolls especially pleasant.
- Walkers and cyclists gravitate towards the McKamy Greenbelt, a semi-hidden stretch of trail that runs parallel to Duffield and offers a peaceful escape from traffic.
- Nearby retail along Preston Road—a short drive or energetic walk away—features grocery stores (including Tom Thumb and Central Market), coffee shops, and local eateries.
Routine errands are a breeze, with everything you need within a 5-10 minute drive, eliminating the stress of long commutes for basic essentials.
Top-Ranked Schools and Family-Friendliness
One of the biggest draws for families is access to the highly-rated Richardson Independent School District. Local children typically attend Brentfield Elementary, Parkhill Junior High, and J.J. Pearce High School—all just minutes away.
- Brentfield Elementary, located on Meandering Way, is especially renowned for its nurturing staff and active parent community.
- Numerous parks and safe streets foster a sense of freedom that parents appreciate; kids play basketball in driveways, walk to friends’ houses, or ride bikes with minimal concern.
You’ll also find several quality preschools, after-school programs, and youth sports leagues in the nearby Preston Trail area, making it easy for families with kids of all ages to get involved.
Abundant Parks and Green Spaces
For nature lovers, Highlands of McKamy offers more than just curb appeal:
- McKamy Greenbelt provides a quiet place for walks, dog-walking, or simply enjoying a bit of greenery without leaving the neighborhood.
- Campbell Green Park, just to the west, is a local favorite for playground equipment, tennis courts, sports fields, and family picnics.
- Several pocket parks dot local streets, offering benches, playscapes, and places for neighbors to gather.
Residents love the combination of greenery and convenience, giving kids and adults alike plenty of space to play, exercise, and relax outdoors.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Highlands of McKamy enjoys a reputation as one of the safest neighborhoods in North Dallas. Its relative seclusion—bordered by larger thoroughfares and featuring few direct cut-through streets—means lower traffic and less unfamiliar activity.
Many neighbors participate in an active voluntary crime watch, supported by the Dallas Police Department’s Northeast Division. Well-lit streets, nightly patrols, and residents looking out for each other further enhance the area’s sense of security.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Living in Highlands of McKamy means balancing suburban quiet with city convenience. Commuters enjoy relatively easy access to Dallas’ major job centers:
- Downtown Dallas is about a 25-minute drive via the Dallas North Tollway or US 75 (Central Expressway), usually less during off-peak hours.
- The Telecom Corridor, Legacy Business Park, and major North Dallas hospitals (like Medical City Dallas) are all within a 15-20 minute commute.
- Nearby shopping hubs, like the Galleria and Prestonwood Town Center, offer retail therapy just around the corner.
Because of this enviable location, professionals who want suburban living without sacrificing a reasonable work commute are big fans of this hidden Dallas pocket.
What Residents Love Most
Ask current residents what keeps them in the Highlands of McKamy, and you’ll hear a familiar refrain:
- The balance between peaceful living and city amenities—everything you need, with none of the noise.
- Beautiful streets like Whispering Oaks are perfect for morning coffee strolls or running into friendly faces.
- A strong sense of community—neighbors who care, kids who grow up together, and homeowners who take pride in their surroundings.
Whether you’re looking for a forever home or a friendly suburb to raise your family, Highlands of McKamy offers the best of both worlds: A leafy retreat with a big Dallas heart.