Bastrop camping ranges across diverse ecosystems from recovering pine forests to riverfront settings. The area sits at approximately 375 feet above sea level with a humid subtropical climate featuring hot summers where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F and mild winters. Camping facilities around Bastrop vary from full hookup sites to primitive yurt camping areas, with many sites requiring reservations during peak seasons from March through October.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Lake Bastrop North Shore Park offers a trail that leads to scenic lake views. "There's a trail that leads to a nice view of Lake Bastrop. There's also a community space in the center of the park which has, picnic tables, a fishing pier, open water access and an area that is roped off for swimming," shares a visitor at Lake Bastrop North Shore Park.
Water activities beyond swimming: Fishing opportunities abound at various parks. "Perfect place to go especially if you want to fish, nice place to go for peace in the piney woods!" notes a camper about Bastrop State Park Campground. The park's proximity to water creates various fishing spots throughout the region.
Golf near campsites: Lockhart State Park combines camping with a unique 9-hole golf course. "This state park with a 9 hole golf course?!? What a unique find! There was also a pool and a couple nature trails," reports a visitor. The park offers "cheap golf" according to another camper who noted, "We golfed 18 one of the days, fun layout, not in the best shape right now but the price was right."
What campers like
Clean, modern bathrooms: McKinney Falls State Park gets consistently high marks for facilities. "Very clean restrooms and camp sites, nice trails, trails not very difficult. Perfect for a day trip from San Antonio, will be back," writes one day visitor to McKinney Falls State Park Campground.
Privacy between sites: Pace Bend Park offers well-spaced camping areas. "The campsites are private and there are always sites available. The campsites along the cliffs are beautiful at night," mentions a regular visitor to Pace Bend Park - Lake Travis. Another camper notes, "There are lots of sites and some space between them. Nice swimming, hiking, and biking, so there is a lot to do."
Recovery from wildfires: The resilience of the park system after natural disasters impresses visitors. "It's heartbreaking to see all the damage to the Pines, due to the wildfires, but it is recovering well," states a camper. Another adds, "It's sad what happened here to the trees in the fire and the lake when the dam burst, but this park is resilient. Please support it by visiting."
What you should know
Seasonal variations affect comfort: Summer visits require preparation for heat. "Camped here two nights... Visited during the middle of summer, so it was very hot, sunny, and dry. Bring sun screen and plenty of water!" advises a Bastrop State Park visitor.
Cell service availability: Some parks maintain good connectivity. At Lockhart State Park Campground, a visitor notes, "The park has 4G network with T-Mobile cell service. It worked pretty well. I could surf online send and receive text messages and was able to talk to my wife."
Yurt camping options limited: While yurt camping near Bastrop, Texas isn't widely available, Lake Bastrop North Shore Park offers this accommodation type. The Amazing Graze property also features glamping options that may include yurt-style structures, providing alternative experiences to traditional tent or RV camping.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks feature excellent play areas for children. "There was a fire not long before we visited in 2012, which was sad but interesting to see. There are a few different camping areas, one is pretty close to the highway so it might not be the most quiet choice. Sites were wooded and shady, expect bugs," shares a family camper.
Swimming options for different ages: Parks with designated swimming areas provide safer experiences. At Vernon L Richards Riverbend Park, a camper reports, "We enjoy going for the day to this park it has a huge lake for our canoe and lots of room for he kids to run around. Kids under 12 get in free and adults are $5 for the day."
Junior Ranger programs: Educational opportunities enhance family camping trips. "Kids got to do the junior ranger program which they loved," reports a parent. These structured activities help children learn about nature while providing organized entertainment during camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Reservation timing matters: Booking ahead is essential at popular parks. "We have an annual Easter weekend camping trip every year and tend to reserve our campsites late as most parks an hour from Austin are always booked," shares an RVer about their experience.
Hookup variations between loops: At most parks, different camping loops offer different amenities. "There are 2 small loops for RV's each with about 10 sites. One loop is full hookups with 50amp and the other is water&electric only with much smaller sites," explains a camper with a 35-foot fifth wheel, adding, "We are pulling a 35' 5th wheel and fit ok but the sites are not deep. The sites are also not super level and our site #2 sloped back."
