THE 10 BEST Texas Camping of 2020 (with Prices) - Tripadvisor. Get your rig ready for your next Texas camping adventure. Please note that there are no reservations taken for these campgrounds; first come, first served is the rule. Park rangers lead exciting programs almost every weekend, including Dutch oven cooking, historic crafts, night hikes, and fishing events. The good news for campers is that there are many beautiful places to stop and camp for a day or two. You can also enjoy hiking along over 21 miles of trails where people have spotted more than 250 species of birds. Your email address will not be published. Located just a short drive from Austin, it also a go-to destination for Texas campers, where group primitive campsites, backpack camping sites and drive up sites are available. 7 Best Lakes in Texas (and Awesome Nearby Campsites) Texas is known for many things – like awesome BBQ, college football, and rodeos. If you’re looking for a unique place to stay, check out the top Airbnb rentals in the area. So, whether it is a state park, national park, a sandy stretch of beach, or a natural reserve, Texas offers campers a vast variety of areas to choose from. … Portable hammock is a must for great camping! State Park campgrounds in Texas. Additionally, there are no water or electrical hookups at these sites, though RVs are welcome and there is a water filling station and a dump station. The most popular places for primitive camping in Texas are Colorado Bend, McKinney Falls or Pedernales Falls state parks. Unique features of a few include spring-fed swimming pools, wild rivers, and ancient caverns. A beautiful 1,938-acre park and home to the four-mile stretch of the Guadalupe River, the Guadalupe River State Park is the perfect area to set up camp. A unique blend of country and cosmopolitan, to really experience everything Texas has to offer you need to grab a tent and head to the wilderness. A unique experience along the Gulf Coast, camping overnight on the Padre Island National Seashore is the perfect escape for beach lovers. One of the biggest outdoor attractions in Texas, Colorado Bend State Park is the perfect combination of scenic vistas and outdoor activities. Whether you want to pitch a tent on a beach or park your RV in a canyon campground, here’s some of the best camping in Texas. Do NOT feed, crowd, follow or approach a bison. Between granite and limestone hills hide quintessential Texas towns, up and coming vineyards, and spring-fed rivers perfect for an afternoon of relaxation. At many of these campgrounds, you can also choose to go primitive camping by staying in a tent. All this on the shores of the Guadalupe River. The most popular places for primitive camping in Texas are Colorado Bend, McKinney Falls or Pedernales Falls state parks. The longest remaining undeveloped stretch of barrier island in the world according to the U.S. National Park Service, a camping trip here offers days filled with the salty breeze running through your hair and serene sounds of the waves, a combination that is sure to have your worries melt away. 20222 Morton Rd “I'm going to go ahead and give it five stars because for what it was, it served our purposes perfectly. Here are the 30 Texas State parks with primitive camping. One of the largest national parks in the United States, there are plenty of things to do. The guest center offers a complimentary indoor kitchen and a television lounge. Various primitive and developed campsites are available, where you can get stunning views of the mountains in addition to a lodge and on-site motel. Watch your favorite shows with the complimentary cable television service or brag to your friends about the great time you are having using the high-speed internet. Enjoy the view of Caddo Lake or try your hand at fly-fishing or cast fishing for crappie, smallmouth bass, and catfish. Hey Sightseers! The most popular FREE campgrounds in Texas are Brazos Island, Camp Creek Recreation Area, and Lake Limestone Public Use Area. 6 countries banning flights from South Africa due to second mutant strain, Million daily travelers in the U.S. despite CDC warnings, Updated list: 48 countries banned UK flights or imposing new restrictions, Japan opening for tourism and Olympics in doubts due to strong 3rd wave, Thailand launching a New Smart Visa for digital nomads, 20 Digital Nomad Jobs You Can Do from Anywhere in 2021, Houston is booming and attracting US remote workers from NYC, LA, Chicago, U.S. holiday airport traffic increasing despite travel warnings. There are nine group camping facilities, including Kimball Bend Park, East Loafers, and Cedron Creek. The feeling of really enjoying the outdoors happens when you can get deep into the park and do some primitive camping. Big Thicket was the first such preserve in the United States and is where to go to find a diverse group of plants and animals, from longleaf pine forests to cypress-lined bayous. El … Therefore, this list of 15 can’t-miss campgrounds has been assembled to help you select the best camping in Texas for family or friends gathering. Suncatcher RV Park in La Grange. While the 24 hours that it takes to drive across the state may seem long to many, you can find so many beautiful campgrounds to explore that you will never be in a hurry. Walk-in campsites with tent pads are available in addition to primitive hike-in campsites, where ample amount of shade and amazing Hill Country views offer a fantastic place for a picnic and respite after a day of adventure. According to the official government website, “Because the lake’s level usually stays constant, you can play here year-round.” With over 200 campsites to choose from and 22 cabins, this is a popular destination for campers of all ages. Houston Campgrounds. This park is located in Concan, TX. Featuring a rugged beauty, an astounding 90 miles of trails are on offer, perfect for campers who like to explore nature on foot. Five year-round campgrounds are available for public use, where you’ll find remote stretches of seashore and plenty of water-based activities. For a unique experience, go birdwatching at the “best little bird blind in Texas” where you’ll find an enclosed viewing area and feeding station. The 1,774-acre Garner State Pak has over 50 campsites. Find the best texas glamping destinations and spots in 2020 and plan the perfect holiday now. Located just a short drive from Austin, it also a go-to destination for Texas campers, where group primitive campsites, backpack camping sites and drive up sites are available. Your children can also be involved in a summer camp program while you enjoy camping at this ranch. Located within Austin’s city limits, McKinney Falls State Park on the shores of Onion Creek will leave you feeling like you have left big-city life far behind. If you’re in the mood to rough it, Padre Island camping will be ideal. Join other campers on a hayride and listen to local entertainers while eating gourmet s’mores. River Road, Glenn Springs Road, Old Ore Road, and Old Maverick Road offer great back-country driving experiences for those with high-rise vehicles. Make sure to prepare for your camping trip to Padre Island. Corpus Christi Campgrounds. With such a wide variety of outstanding options, it is easy to reconnect with nature in the Lone Star State on a camping trip. Image via Texas Parks and Wildlife. You can spend time exploring the Piney Woods of East Texas, the coastline of South Texas, the high plains of northwest Texas, the Hill Country, or the desert of West Texas. One of the biggest outdoor attractions in Texas, Colorado Bend State Park is the perfect combination of scenic vistas and outdoor activities. Credit: nps.gov Link Copied to Clipboard. This campground provides unobstructed views of Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Price. Get Travel Deals in Your Inbox. Authorities say new U.K. strain has possibly been in the U.S. since Sept. Hawaii to reduce the number of days in quarantine for all visitors, 8 Best Hostels in Split, Croatia to Check Out in 2020, 9 Best Hostels in Budapest for Solo Travelers 2020, Cancun Hotels Occupancy Back to 80% Due to High Demand, At least 10 countries confirmed or suspecting new strain of Coronavirus, Pre-flight testing for passengers between the U.K. and NYC now required, India suspends all flights from the U.K. due to new Coronavirus strain, Privacy Policy & Terms of Use & Editorial Policies. Offering a wide array of outdoor recreation, Garner State Park boasts 1,774 acres of beautiful Hill Country. Experience both sea, sand and wildlife viewing here, as the 70 miles of coastline, dunes, and prairies separate the Gulf of Mexico from the Laguna Madre. Due to its constant lake level, the park is accessible all year-round. They offer daily, weekly and monthly rates and have group discounts available. Spend your days hiking, bird-watching or mountain biking, and when the sun goes down, there are various stargazing tours that are popular. The park is close to numerous local attractions and has great on-site amenities to keep campers happy. Home to over 4,000 species of animals, wildlife viewing is also a popular pastime. Although this region is well-known for its tourists and resorts, it has quieter, less developed sections too. Best Texas State Parks For Camping #1 Garner State Park Beautiful Outdoor Fall Foliage Surrounding the Crystal Clear Emerald Green Frio River at Garner State Park, Texas. Choose between 70-or-90-foot concrete pads at Stella Mare Resort in Galveston. As we were heading back to Wisconsin, we discovered an amazing campsite overlooking a beautiful lake. On hot summer days, swimming and tubing in the Frio River are an excellent way to cool off, while the park’s concession building hosts 1940s-style jukebox dances. Austin Campgrounds. Padre Island Padre Island National Seashore, Corpus Christi. Consider going on the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive for amazing views of the Chihuahuan Desert landscape or get an up-close look by hiking the Window Trail or Lost Mine Trail. You can shore fish without a license, and rangers will be glad to loan you all the needed equipment to fish at this lake that is one of the best bass fishing lakes in the United States. Situated on the edge of the Rio Grande River within Big Bend National Park, this concession-operated campground offers 100 camping sites. It’s just you, the wind and the waves. The southeast corner of Texas offers miles of scenic Gulf Coast shoreline. Hiram’s Resort in Florida. Best Tent and RV Camping in the Texas Hill Country West of Austin and San Antonio lies the fabled Texas Hill Country. Generally speaking, state parks have well-maintained campgrounds and a host of backcountry tent camping opportunities. The highlight of the park is Gorman Falls, a 65-foot cascading waterfall that cascades into a … Sit back and relax on the in-pool lounge chairs in the swimming pool or play at the large splash pad. Pitch your tent at one of the campsites near the water, or scope out a secluded spot for ultimate tranquility. With so many possibilities, choosing the right campground can be quite challenging. Probably Texas’ best known backpacking trail. Just a short drive from San Antonio and Austin, parkgoers are spoiled for choice in the beautiful scenery. On the river, you can swim, fish, tube, and canoe, while 13 miles of hiking and biking trails are ideal for those who prefer to explore on land. Just an hour northwest of Austin, the park is the perfect weekend getaway in the summer where you can swim, boat, water ski and scuba dive. This ranch offers horse corrals, and there are plenty of open spaces to explore. Additionally, those with big rigs can find room on the Hackberry campsite. Make sure to bring water to these sites and be ready to pack out all your trash. Sort: Recommended. Sometimes when you venture off into the wilderness you don’t really want to be side-by-side with another family of car campers. With over 800,000 acres of beautiful views, visitors will find a range of outdoor activities to indulge in, from kayaking the Rio Grand to backpacking and mountain biking to fishing, and nature watching. We’re all about camping here in Texas, but I never hear much talk about camping on the beach! If your neighbor is doing so, contact a ranger. The Frio River winds through the park and its 11 miles of trails offer scenic vistas for adventurous travelers. If you are lucky enough to live in the Lone Star state, there are also many weekend camping adventures that you can enjoy. No generators are allowed from 10 pm to 6 am. Go fishing in the Sabinal River or Can Creek without leaving the boundaries of this campground. Paddleboats, kayaks, and inner tubes are all available to rent so that you can play on the Frio River. Also, see our Suggested Camping essentials before you plan and leave on your next camping trip to find the best camping in Texas. Top 15 Under-the-Radar Travel Destinations, Top 9 Things to Do Outdoors in Texas This Fall, Top 13 Places to Stay for a Dallas Staycation, This Small Texas Town is Home to a Big Story, 8 Best Neighborhoods to See Christmas Lights in Houston, Eat, Drink and Be Merry This Holiday Season at Capt. Open Now. Cosy cabins and lodges, comfortable tents and treehouses for the best luxury camping experience. Let's start with what it is NOT. Visited 72 countries but for now, taking a little break in Barcelona. Prepare a meal on the grills or in the fire rings located near this campground’s pavilion. San Antonio Campgrounds. There are multiple hike-in sights. We are proud to introduce you to these 15 favorites. Bring along your all-terrain vehicle or your dirt bikes to enjoy the backcountry wilderness. Hiking, swimming, and fishing in Sabinal are popular outdoor activities, while those interested in catching the fall foliage will need to plan their trip around mid-October to mid-November. Here are seven of the best Texas campgrounds that you have to experience for yourself. We love camping across this amazing country. A 2.8-mile paved hiking trail offers many scenic views or explore the more primitive hiking trails. Featuring a scenic topography with sparkling blue waters and colorful rock outcrops, campers can explore the nine miles of picturesque hiking trails. Inks Lake State Park in Burnet, Texas, has walk-in tent campsites with electricity right on the water. YOU'RE ALL SET! Located on the shores of Lake Texhoma, near Dennison, Texas, there are many ways to enjoy a visit to this state park. Located just outside of Llano in central Texas, Enchanted Rock State Natural area is most famously known for its enormous piece of pink granite rock, one of the largest natural rock formations in the United States. There is some shopping at the park headquarters building, but it’s a good idea to stock up before you head into the park. From March to November, you can cool off in the saltwater swimming pool that features a waterfall or relax in the hot tub and spa. . The top-notch facilities include beautifully landscaped grounds, free hot showers, and a large clubhouse! No RV, no problem! I've been actively traveling & working online around the world for 8+ years. This is a stunning park, where you can listen to the smooth waters of Onion Creek flowing over limestone ledges, and splashing into pools, where you could give your weary feet a rest from hiking. You may also want to bring along lunch and a blanket and escape the Texas sun under the tall shade trees while enjoying a picnic. Texas is a vast state that will take you more than 24 hours to travel east to west, and almost as many north to south. In addition to many campsites with a variety of amenities, there are several spots to fish, hike and climb. McKinney Falls State Park is only 13 miles from Austin, within the city limits, so makes for an easy weekend or day trip for city dwellers, or if you’re traveling into Texas for a longer camping trip around the state. Nicknamed by man as “America’s Ark,” a trip here can be spent canoeing, hiking, biking and horseback riding, while primitive campsites are spread across the sprawling 112,500 acres of land. Campers can hike, bike, or horseback through this spectacular canyon along its 30 miles of trails. There are plenty of spots for tent camping, RV camping, and equestrian campsites, while cabins are available to rent on the canyon rim and canyon floor. These lakes are fishing havens, where residents find peace, relaxation and beautiful landscapes. The best way to experience the Lone Star State’s abundance of stunning landscapes, spend your days indulging in outdoor adventures like swimming, hiking, and kayaking before snuggling up to a warm campfire and gazing at the starry sky. Located very near the Texas Historical Railroad in East Texas, Rusk State Park is a beautiful place under tall trees to go camping. Located just 26 miles northwest of the state capital, NW Austin KOA in Leander, Texas, is a great place to stay. Traditionally, from October 1 through March 31, this park is home to one of the largest turkey roosts in Central Texas. The canyon is a floodplain, so if you plan a hike down the 800 feet to the bottom, make sure to check the weather. Get our latest advice & deals in your inbox! 85% Off | 3-Nt Bahamas Cruise on Carnival Conquest, Hotel RIU Palace Paradise Island | All-Inclusive, Win a 2021 Beach House Vacation in Myrtle Beach, 6-Nt W. Caribbean Cruise on Caribbean Princess, 4-Nt Bahamas Cruise on Celebrity Infinity, 7-Nt Eastern Caribbean Cruise on Nieuw Statendam, 9-Day Illinois River Cruise - Up to $5,800 off, 3-Nt Bahamas Cruise on Norwegian Sky | 36% Off, SC is Open | Up to 40% Off Forest Dunes Resort, SC is Open | Free Night at Beach Cove Resort, 9-Day Pacific NW River Cruise - Up to $5,800 off, 9-Day Mississippi River Cruise - Up to $5,800 off, SC is Open | hotel BLUE Myrtle Beach up to 45% Off. Your children will love the multi-level playground located on its own sand island. Enjoy Texas’ best watering holes at these 10 best waterside camping spots in Texas. Join park rangers for many exciting programs, including learning how to geocache. Campers can choose from tent camping, screened-in shelters and on-site cabins peppered throughout the park. Hikers and cyclists are strongly encouraged to travel with a gallon of water wherever they go. 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