Tent camping near Bastrop, Texas includes several small campgrounds along the Colorado River with varying accessibility options. Seasonally, temperatures range from winter lows around 40°F to summer highs exceeding 95°F, with high humidity during warmer months. Most campgrounds limit the number of tents per site and enforce quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM.
What to do
River activities: Kayaking, tubing, and fishing are popular at Son's River Ranch, where visitors can purchase day passes for unlimited water recreation. "We rented a cabana for the day and it was fun to hang out and relax by the river and BBQ. The next day we tubed and kayaked. They have a wristband you can buy for the day that is good for unlimited kayaking and tubing," notes Karin R.
Swimming in natural settings: Lost Pines Camping offers lake access for cooling off during hot Texas summers. According to Craig S., "The lake is wonderful for swimming or just sitting lakeside." Most swimming areas lack lifeguards, so appropriate water safety precautions are advised.
Farm tours and agriculture education: At small working farms like SHAMBA Farm, campers can observe sustainable farming practices. The single tent site provides an immersive agricultural experience with drinking water and toilet facilities available. Farm stays typically require advance reservations due to limited capacity.
What campers like
Hammock relaxation: Colorado RiverBend Retreat provides hammocks at their riverside sites. Laura D. mentions, "Right by the river - easy to fish or spend time in the multiple hammocks."
Urban camping experiences: CampEZ in SxSouth Austin offers a unique urban camping option with an eclectic atmosphere. "The campground is difficult to locate because there's only one gate that has the name of it on there. When you go in the gate, there are old campers that have been renovated and the greenery that spreads throughout this campground is beautiful. They have donkeys and goats," reports Lisa F.
Dish-washing facilities: Several campgrounds provide practical amenities like outdoor sinks. Laura D. at Colorado RiverBend Retreat notes, "There is also a large sink - perfect for washing dishes."
What you should know
Limited site availability: Most campgrounds near Bastrop have very few sites. Lost Pines Camping has just 2 sites, while Colorado RiverBend Retreat offers only 3. Reservations are essential, particularly during weekends and summer months.
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Some locations offer full facilities while others are more primitive. Son's Blue River Camp provides private bathrooms for glamping cabins, with Karin R. noting "They have private, lockable, full bathrooms right behind the cabins."
Alcohol policies: Rules regarding alcohol consumption differ between campgrounds. Colorado RiverBend Retreat and CampEZ permit alcohol, while other locations like Lost Pines Camping prohibit it entirely. Check specific campground policies before arrival.
Accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds require special access. Plum Park on the Colorado requires boat-in or walk-in access, while Boy Scout Island is only accessible by boat, with no facilities available on site.
Tips for camping with families
Glamping options: For families wanting comfort without setup hassle, Son's Blue River Camp offers air-conditioned alternatives. "We stayed in one of their air-conditioned glamping cabins. It was very nice and clean and the AC stayed very cold," shares Karin R.
Animal encounters: Children often enjoy the farm animals at certain campgrounds. At CampEZ, Jim O. mentions "Cute friendly donkeys!" which provides educational opportunities for young campers.
Parking proximity considerations: For families with young children and extensive gear, Colorado RiverBend Retreat allows parking directly at campsites. "You can park at the site - we set up two tents with space to spare," notes Laura D.
Kitchen setup: Consider campgrounds with kitchen facilities for easier meal preparation. Several sites provide picnic tables, fire pits, and communal washing areas suitable for family needs.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: While this guide focuses on tent camping, RVers should note that most campgrounds near Bastrop have minimal or no RV-specific amenities. Only Son's Blue River Camp explicitly lists RV accommodation among its options.
Hookup availability: Electric hookups are available at Colorado RiverBend Retreat and Son's River Ranch, but most tent-focused campgrounds lack water or sewer connections for RVs.
Size restrictions: None of the campgrounds in the Bastrop area are classified as big-rig friendly. RVers with larger vehicles should contact campgrounds directly to confirm access and maneuverability before booking.
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