Camping near Bandera, Texas offers diverse landscapes with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 feet throughout the surrounding Hill Country. The region's creek and river systems create numerous water recreation opportunities that vary significantly with rainfall patterns. Most camping spots near Bandera maintain accessibility year-round, though primitive sites can become difficult to navigate after heavy rains.
What to do
Trail hiking: Hill Country State Natural Area provides multiple trail systems with varying difficulty levels. One camper noted, "Super camping & hiking with our dog and friends. The hiking was great with some challenging trails and some moderate ones, which allowed us to explore quite a bit of the park."
Deer feeding: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to interact with local wildlife. At Thousand Trails Medina Lake, "Deer walk around the park all day and night. Dog friendly even with 'aggressive' dog breeds. Very much a plus for us."
River activities: The Medina River provides options for swimming, fishing and kayaking. A visitor to Bandera Pioneer RV River Resort mentioned, "Park your RV and within walking distance of Main Street. Very friendly staff and patrons and the area is clean. Large pool for kids and has river access."
Walking trails: Many campgrounds feature paths along waterways. One reviewer at Bandera Pioneer RV River Resort noted, "Walking trail along the river, wide enough for golf carts. The Medina River runs along the edge of the park. Walk under Hwy173 to access City Park."
What campers like
Family-oriented amenities: Antler Oaks Lodge and RV Resort offers numerous recreational facilities. A camper shared, "We spent 4 nights at Antler Oaks Lodge and it was quiet and relaxing. We enjoyed the pool and the river multiple times daily. There is a huge hall rec area that they have where they have games, couches, store and a library."
Accessibility to town: Several camping spots near Bandera, Texas provide convenient access to local attractions. As one Bandera Pioneer RV River Resort visitor explained, "Walking distance to Main Street- bars, shops, food, entertainment, Visitor's center (Gunfights on Saturdays)."
Large campsites: Campers frequently mention the spacious sites at Skyline Ranch RV Park. One reviewer noted, "This site has a couple large Live Oak shade trees. On the end, so the front of the camper has a large area for the 'yard'."
Wildlife viewing: The opportunity to observe native animals attracts many visitors. A camper at Texas Hill Country Resort mentioned, "We saw a deer, squirrels, and even a herd of blackbuck antelope."
What you should know
Gate access codes: Some campgrounds require entry codes after hours. A visitor to Kerrville-Schreiner Park advised, "It is large and you'll need to take a map with you if you leave and return at night. There is a gate code to get back in, after hours."
Seasonal water levels: River conditions fluctuate dramatically throughout the year. A camper at Boulderdash Cabin & RV Park observed, "This place was interesting. It was very pretty. We had a great view overlooking the river. The water was very low when we went."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads or airports. A Kerrville-Schreiner Park visitor noted, "The south side of park is directly below airport approach and landing and pvt. jets and general aviation aircraft could be noisy and quite low over campground."
Limited bathroom facilities: Smaller campgrounds may have restricted facilities. One Boulderdash Cabin & RV Park camper mentioned, "The single bathroom and shower is in a horse trailer. It's very clean and cute and unique. I think they have plans to add another bathroom."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation facilities: Look for campgrounds with multiple activity options. A visitor to Antler Oaks Lodge and RV Resort shared, "There is a playscape, basketball and volleyball court. Our kids loved it and we have it on our list to go back to again one day."
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer pool access in addition to natural water features. At Antler Oaks, one family noted, "The pool and the river was were you would find us most! If our baby was older the huge playground would be too."
Kid-friendly trails: Several parks feature accessible paths for younger hikers. A Texas Hill Country Resort visitor recommended, "Take the hiking trail to the observation deck and see the whole valley!"
Safety considerations: Campgrounds have varying levels of lighting at night. One camper at Texas Hill Country Resort observed, "Many of the lights on top of the electric posts were not working, so it's dark out when you take your dog for that last walk before bedtime."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV spots vary in size and setup. At Skyline Ranch RV Park, a reviewer advised, "The end of the site drops down a little, so it was hard to back UP the incline on the gravel when hitching up."
Electrical service: Check which amperage is available at specific sites. A Thousand Trails Medina Lake visitor noted, "They have 30 & 50 amp hook-up sites. Not all have sewer connections, but there is a dump station on site."
Amenities for longer stays: Some locations offer additional features for extended visits. At Thousand Trails Medina Lake, one RVer found, "There are lots of amenities such as a huge pool, playgrounds, dog runs, restrooms, laundry, trails, boat launch, community center, games, basketball, pickle ball, mini golf, and so much more!"
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts the camping experience throughout the year. A camper at Texas Hill Country Resort mentioned, "The Pool is not heated, so useless for winter Texans. but I'll bet it's just great in the summertime."
