Camping near Austin, Texas ranges from primitive riverside spots to full-service RV parks. The Texas Hill Country terrain creates diverse ecosystems with elevations between 400-1,800 feet surrounding the city. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F between June and September, while spring brings moderate temperatures and wildflower blooms across camping areas.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Pace Bend Park offers cliff jumping opportunities into Lake Travis. "My favorite part about this campsite is the ability to cliff jump into a lake. I love the water and this campsite was perfect for me," notes one visitor to Pace Bend Park - Lake Travis.
Hiking trails: Emma Long Metropolitan Park features off-leash dog trails within 15 minutes of downtown. According to one camper, "The dog trails though are off leash and awesome!" The park combines river access with hiking options.
Fossil hunting: Pedernales Falls State Park contains limestone formations with marine fossil impressions. A camper reports, "The park has lots of forest trails to hike as well as some interesting rock formations around the creek and water holes. The most noted feature of the park is definitely the Upper and Lower Falls."
What campers like
Proximity to downtown: Pecan Grove RV Park sits within walking distance to popular Austin attractions. "This campground is run by a lovely older gentleman who only does reservations over the phone. The park is a lot of seasonal, but there are a number of spots available for travelers. It's a tight fit around the solitary loop and would probably be difficult with a big rig. But we paid $45 a night to be within walking distance of 6th street and much of downtown," shares one visitor.
Privacy between sites: McKinney Falls State Park offers well-spaced campsites with natural screening. "We spent a couple of nights at this park. We loved the water falls and the sites are far apart with trees and shrubs surrounding them," explains a camper at McKinney Falls State Park Campground.
Natural swimming areas: Several parks feature river access for cooling off. "There's a place where you can jump off the rocks into the water," notes a visitor about the swimming holes at McKinney Falls State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: State parks fill quickly, especially during spring and fall weekends. "Primitive sites are a few miles hike in. very doable. beware of cayotes and curious deer," mentions a camper at Pedernales Falls State Park Campground.
Weather considerations: Flash flooding can occur rapidly at waterfront sites. Several parks post warnings about water conditions that should be strictly observed, particularly at river crossings.
Accessibility issues: Many primitive sites require hiking in with gear. One visitor notes, "The trails to the back country camping are just service roads, a big disappointment. No fires, but this should be expected."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety: McKinney Falls requires supervision for children. One camper cautions, "Please be careful swimming. If you can't swim, please refrain or wear a life jacket. There have been several drownings here."
Historical exploration: Several parks contain historical structures. "The ruins of the homestead are definitely worth checking out if the creek is passable," recommends a visitor at McKinney Falls.
City-adjacent camping: Austin East KOA provides family amenities with urban proximity. According to a camper at Austin East KOA, "It has private showers and bathrooms that are immaculate. The staff was so friendly and helpful and made us feel very welcome, even though we were only there for one night to practice our set up and tear down, as we are newbies. Spacious RV sites with bbq grills, FHU, fire pit, picnic table, some shade. Really nice pool, small game room with a big, tree-shaded deck."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Oak Forest RV Park offers distinct sections for different stays. "Two sections, older for permanent or long term; newer well spaced, sites toward office. Five star private bathrooms, pool areas are clean and well kept. Grounds are manicured with fire pit common areas," reports an RVer at Oak Forest RV Park.
Access considerations: Several parks have low-hanging branches. One RVer at Austin Lone Star RV Community shares, "Getting in and out of the park was smooth for the most part just watch some overhanging limbs."
Airport proximity: For travelers flying in, McKinney Falls offers the closest camping to the airport. "We stayed here because it was close to the airport and had a flight to catch. It was only a 9 min drive," notes a camper.
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