Camping spots near Abilene, Texas range from lakeside sites to secluded parks within an hour's drive. The region sits in the Rolling Plains at around 1,700 feet elevation, characterized by mesquite and oak trees that provide limited shade during the hot summer months when temperatures often exceed a sweltering 100°F. Fall and spring offer more moderate temperatures in the 70-80°F range, making them prime seasons for exploring the outdoor recreation opportunities surrounding this West Texas city.
What to do
Fishing at Fort Phantom Hill Lake: This reservoir provides excellent opportunities for anglers about 15 miles north of Abilene. Fort Phantom Lakeside RV Park offers direct water access with "Great fishing dock and crappie house. Great spot for fishing and swimming," according to camper Sarha B.
Water activities at Lake Fort Phantom Hill: The lake allows swimming, boating, and water sports during warmer months. At Johnson Park on Lake Fort Phantom Hill, Logan W. notes the park has "loads of available camping areas and gazebos with tables, trash cans, grills, and a set of restrooms that are kept relatively clean."
Wildlife viewing: The parks around Abilene support diverse wildlife populations. One camper at SeaBee Park reported, "absolutely wonderful park! Quiet (in October) and we saw much wildlife! Deer! Egrets! So lovely."
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: The campgrounds around Abilene often feature well-maintained bathrooms and other amenities. At Whistlestop RV Resort, Doug mentions, "Bathrooms are worth the price of admission alone. They are separate rooms with enough room for two and incredibly clean, new and great water pressure."
Recreation options beyond hiking: Many campgrounds offer additional activities beyond standard trails. L Robert T. says Whistlestop RV Resort provides "plenty of amenities including pool, covered area with corn hole and other games, beach volleyball, pickle ball, golf net and a bunch of other forms of entertainment."
Free laundry facilities: Some RV parks offer complimentary laundry, a rare perk. Elizabeth S. noted about Tye RV Park, "They have nicest laundry facility we've ever seen- best part is there are 9 machines which are FREE and new."
What you should know
Highway noise impacts: Many camping locations near Abilene are close to Interstate 20 or major roads. JZ W. warns about Tye RV Park: "I knew there would be noise from the freeway as it is just off the freeway (I-20). BUT there is also a train that blows its horn AND it's in a flight path so there are jets flying over pretty regularly."
Reservations recommended for weekends: The limited number of camping spots near Abilene fill quickly during peak seasons. At SeaBee Park, Mark P. observed, "There are a limited number of sites, about three. When I arrived, there were none available, but someone cruised through and wanted to chat with me, by the time he finished a site opened up."
Seasonal closures: Some amenities like swimming pools close during winter months. J D. mentioned about RidgeView RV Resort, "No game room and pool is closed for winter."
Tips for camping with families
Seek out disabled-friendly facilities: Some campgrounds have specialized facilities that work well for families with young children. At Abilene State Park Campground, Amie M. discovered, "the real hidden gem was in the bathroom by the yurts. They have a disabled shower. So it's within reach and the showerhead is lower. Awesome to use to clean my toddler without getting drenched."
Visit during weekdays for quieter experience: Weekends can get crowded and noisy. Tim & noted about Abilene State Park, "if you're looking for peace and quiet, come during the week. Had the place to ourselves M-F, but weekends were packed with disrespectful and noisy campers who littered, cut through sites, let their children run/scream well past dark."
Consider day trips to Abilene Zoo: Located within a short drive of most campgrounds, the zoo makes for a good family activity. Jackie R. shared, "Not far from Abilene, we visited the zoo there."
Tips from RVers
Look for pull-through sites: Many RV parks offer convenient pull-through options for easier setup. At Buck Creek RV Park, John C. noted it's a "Good overnight spot off I 20" that's "far enough from the interstate that the road noise was minimal" with "about 50 sites, most seem to be long-term."
Check site levelness: Some campgrounds have issues with uneven sites. At RidgeView RV Resort, J D. mentioned, "Sites are large but hard to find level on many of them."
Ask about military discounts: Active duty and veterans may find special rates at certain locations. Trisha D. noted about Dyess Military - Dyess AFB, "The MWR staff were friendly and helpful. The RV park (FamCamp) on base is well maintained and the restrooms were very clean."
