Amistad National Recreation Area campsites span across the limestone terrain of southwest Texas, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The reservoir formed by Amistad Dam stretches across 65,000 acres with 851 miles of shoreline, making it the second largest lake in Texas. Camping options include both developed sites with covered picnic tables and primitive areas accessible only by boat, with typical site fees ranging from $3-10 per night depending on amenities and pass discounts.
What to do
Fish from shore or boat: At Spur 406 Campground, the lake offers excellent fishing opportunities. "Lots of angler on boats out on the lake, but none on the shoreline when I was there," notes one visitor who explored the area in November 2020.
Take guided tours to see rock art: Seminole Canyon State Park Campground offers access to ancient pictographs. "We did the 8 mile hike around the park and it was easy, beautiful views of the Rio Grande river looking into Mexico. We also took the rock art/painting guided tour ($8.00 per person for adults)," shares a camper who visited in November 2018.
Watch for wildlife: Wildlife viewing opportunities abound around the reservoir. A camper at San Pedro Campground reported, "We heard lots of coyotes in the distance just after sunset." Fox sightings are also common, with one visitor at Governors Landing noting, "Our neighbor reported seeing a fox come through our site."
What campers like
Covered picnic shelters: San Pedro Campground receives praise for its amenities despite basic facilities. "Each is set up with a grill, picnic table and shade shelter," explains a camper, adding that "There are no electrical hook-ups (bring your solar!), and no water available at this campground."
Night sky viewing: The dark skies away from city lights create excellent stargazing conditions. A visitor to Governors Landing Campground mentioned, "Sunsets and sunrises are gorgeous, stars are fantastic," though they noted highway noise can affect the experience.
Swimming opportunities: Cooling off is possible at select access points. One camper recommended Governors Landing's specific swimming spot: "Best swimming area is under the bridge," while another highlighted "We woke up to beautiful views of the blue/green water and took a morning hike down to walk right out onto one of the natural jetty's."
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary widely: Facilities at most campgrounds are basic and maintenance can be inconsistent. A visitor to Spur 406 noted, "The only bathroom did not have a toilet seat. As two women, this was problematic. We opted not to stay."
Water levels fluctuate dramatically: Lake access points change based on drought conditions. A camper at Rough Canyon Campground observed it was "not so remote, 4 campgrounds close to one another" with an "easy walk to the lake" during their visit, but conditions change seasonally.
High winds can be challenging: Wind conditions can affect camping comfort significantly. A visitor at Governors Landing warned, "The wind was a challenge. I learned it's more efficient to cook in a charcoal grill than a gas stove with high winds."
Payment systems vary: Most campgrounds use self-service payment methods. At San Pedro Campground, "It's a self-serve place. We just paid our $6 fee at the entry kiosk and that was it," while another camper noted Governors Landing "is $10 per night to park overnight and the automated machine takes card!"
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with more amenities: American Campground offers additional facilities that can make family camping more comfortable. One visitor shared, "Laundry, showers, restrooms. Easy access from rt 90. Super close to Amistad National Recreation Area."
Watch for desert wildlife: The desert environment hosts various creatures kids should be aware of. One camper at San Pedro Campground warned about "Fire ants EVERYWHERE. We just pitched a tent by the pavilion where we found the least ants."
Look for USB charging stations: Some picnic areas have modern amenities. A camper at Governors Landing discovered, "The picnic tables on the way down to the water have USB charging that is solar powered and umbrellas built in. Perfect spot to have morning coffee/breakfast."
Tips from RVers
Seek out level sites: Finding level parking can be challenging. A camper at Seminole Canyon State Park Campground advised, "Site 26 is a bit sloped," showing the importance of choosing your spot carefully.
Consider temperature challenges: Summer heat affects air conditioning efficiency. One RVer reported, "August may not have been the best time to come in an Aliner camper (not the parks fault), Our ac couldn't keep up during the day. Nights and mornings were fantastic, though."
Check site access before arrival: Road conditions and site specifications matter. A visitor to American Campground noted, "Sites a clear and clean, quite level for being gravel," making it easier for larger rigs to set up.
