Best Dispersed Camping near Bastrop, TX
Dispersed camping near Bastrop, Texas focuses primarily on primitive sites along the San Gabriel River Trail area. Two key dispersed options include Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites and Walnut Springs Primitive Campground. Both locations are free and require no reservations, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. These backcountry sites are only accessible by hiking, walking, or in some cases, by boat, making them suitable for campers seeking more remote, undeveloped camping experiences without facilities.
Access to these primitive campsites requires preparation for self-sufficient backcountry camping. Both Sawyer Park and Walnut Springs can be reached by hiking several miles from trailheads or parking areas. Sawyer Park is approximately 5 miles from both Tejas Campground and Cedar Breaks Campground access points, while Walnut Springs can be accessed by hiking 2 miles from Russell Park or biking 4 miles from Camp Tejas. No drinking water, toilets, or trash facilities exist at either location. Fires are permitted, though seasonal restrictions may apply. Campers need to bring all supplies and practice Leave No Trace principles, including digging cat holes for waste.
The primitive camping experience around Bastrop provides opportunities for solitude among natural surroundings along Lake Georgetown and the San Gabriel River. The 26.2-mile San Gabriel River Trail passes through forests, grasslands, and over small hills, connecting the camping areas. Visitors should be prepared for varying conditions based on season. "In the summer be aware that the combination of the temperature and the exposure can make this trail uncomfortable to hike. Take precautions, drink lots of water and stay in the shade." During weekdays, campers may encounter very few people, while weekends might bring more backpackers and scout groups. Both sites permit pets, though keeping them leashed is recommended.
