Nestled in far North Dallas just east of Preston Road and south of Frankford, the Highlands of McKamy is a neighborhood that seamlessly blends timeless charm and a spirit of togetherness with the convenience of urban living. While it may not boast decades-old mansions or towering live oaks like some Dallas enclaves, the Highlands of McKamy has steadily established itself as a place where history is valued and every street tells a story.
The Origins: Foundations in a New Era
The land where Highlands of McKamy now thrives was once wide, open Texas prairie. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, this area was primarily agricultural, owned by various pioneering families. It wasn’t until the growth boom of North Dallas in the late 1970s and 1980s that developers turned their attention to the corner bounded by McKamy Lane, Campbell Road, and Hillcrest Road.
The neighborhood takes its name from McKamy Lane, itself named for one of the region’s early settler families. The McKamy family were among the landowners and farmers who helped shape this swath of north Dallas, contributing to local schools and church communities—an enduring heritage referenced through every mention of the street.
Highlands of McKamy was envisioned as a tranquil, family-oriented neighborhood, with winding roads (such as Shadow Way and Highland View Drive) that depart from Dallas’ usual grid, reflecting a desire for a more peaceful suburban environment.
Naming and Street Stories
McKamy Lane is more than just an address — it's a nod to the legacy of the early Texas settlers. According to Dallas County archives, the McKamy name first appeared in land records in the late 1800s, associated with the area’s first farming tracts and early community gatherings.
Many street names in the Highlands of McKamy—like Shadow Way, Heather Lane, and Mossvine Drive—evoke the natural features and gentle landscape developers aimed to preserve. These gentle curves and cul-de-sacs create a sense of privacy and space uncommon in most of busy Dallas.
Key Milestones Through the Decades
- 1970s-1980s: Birth of a Community: The initial build-out of the neighborhood happened during Dallas’ northward expansion. Developers prioritized wide lots, mature landscaping, and unique architectural details—many homes still showcase original brickwork and custom woodwork.
- 1990s: Growth and Identity: As more families moved in, the community began to organize block parties, holiday parades, and neighborhood watch programs, cementing its tightly knit feel.
- 2000s-present: Modernization and Preservation: Home renovations became popular, adding modern amenities while respecting the area’s classic Texas character. The neighborhood association formed, championing beautification and community engagement initiatives.
Landmarks and Beloved Spaces
While there may not be a single famous landmark, Highlands of McKamy is home to several places that hold great meaning for residents:
- Arbor Springs Park: Tucked away between Shadow Way and Arbor Springs Road, this cozy green space is the neighborhood’s unofficial gathering spot. Weekend picnics, impromptu soccer matches, and morning dog walks fill its well-manicured lawns.
- Prestonwood Elementary (RISD): Just a short walk west, this school has educated generations of local children and served as an anchor for the community.
- Nearby North Dallas Library (Forest Green Branch): While technically outside the bounds, the library at Forest Lane and Greenville Avenue is a beloved resource for every book-loving resident.
- Neighborhood Entrances: The classic brick monument signs at McKamy Lane and Hillcrest welcome all and stand as subtle sentinels of local pride.
Neighborhood Spirit: Then and Now
One of the enduring strengths of Highlands of McKamy is its sense of community. From the start, residents were quick to build bonds—early neighborhood association newsletters from the 1980s are filled with accounts of potlucks, shared gardening tips, and welcome baskets for new neighbors. Tradition endures in annual events like the Highlands Holiday Parade and the spring block party, where old-timers and newcomers alike share stories and laughter on front lawns.
The area is especially popular with young families and professionals looking for a quieter setting without sacrificing access to Dallas’ dining, shopping, and business hubs. Its convenient proximity to Frankford, Hillcrest, and Preston roads connects neighbors to the Galleria, Addison, and Plano business corridors.
Evolving with the Times
Despite its established feel, Highlands of McKamy has not stood still. Many homes have seen thoughtful updates—energy-efficient windows, tasteful additions, and lush backyard gardens are common improvements. The neighborhood association also coordinates beautification drives along McKamy Lane and regular communications between residents through newsletters and online groups.
Local real estate experts often note that the area’s enduring popularity comes not just from lovely homes, but from the way residents look out for one another. Whether it’s helping an elderly neighbor with yardwork or organizing support for a local family in need, the spirit of cooperation remains a defining feature of the Highlands of McKamy.
A Legacy for the Future
As Dallas continues to grow and change, Highlands of McKamy stands as a beacon of neighborhood pride. Its roots may be relatively recent compared to other historic Dallas districts, but its commitment to community heritage, quiet streets, and a warm, neighborly welcome make it special.
To stroll down Highland View, watch the sun set behind Arbor Springs Park, or see children riding bikes along Hillcrest Trail is to witness a living tribute to the values that made this corner of Dallas unique.
Highlands of McKamy’s history isn’t written in monumental buildings or century-old legends, but rather in the everyday lives of the people who call it home. For those who know its story, it’s more than a neighborhood—it’s a tradition worth celebrating, and a heritage that grows richer with every passing year.