Best Dispersed Camping near Bend, TX

Rustic camping near Bend, Texas centers on the San Gabriel River Trail, a 26.2-mile route circling Lake Georgetown. The trail traverses several ecological zones with elevations ranging from 791 to 908 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 95°F during June through August, making water management critical for hikers and campers in this Central Texas destination.

What to do

Water activities at the lake: The shoreline of Lake Georgetown offers swimming opportunities during warmer months. Though access points vary in quality, persistent hikers can find secluded spots along the water's edge for cooling off.

Bird watching along tributaries: The diverse ecosystem supports numerous bird species, particularly in morning hours. Bring binoculars and a field guide to identify local and migratory birds that frequent the riparian areas.

Overnight backpacking loops: San Gabriel River Trail provides multiple access points for creating customized overnight trips. According to Troy W., "The trail circles Lake Georgetown and is 26.2 miles. It passes through forests, grasslands, over some small hills and across a few tributaries."

What campers like

Natural solitude on weekdays: Primitive camping areas see significantly less traffic Monday through Thursday. This timing allows for a more isolated experience with fewer encounters with other groups.

Accessible wilderness experience: Despite being relatively close to Georgetown, the trail provides legitimate backcountry camping. The balance of accessibility and remoteness makes this location popular for beginning backpackers testing their skills.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: The varied terrain supports diverse wildlife throughout the seasons. The interface between grassland and forested areas creates edge habitat where animals frequently travel at dawn and dusk.

What you should know

Limited shade coverage: Much of the trail system lacks adequate tree canopy, creating challenging hiking conditions in summer. The exposed sections can become extremely hot between 10am-4pm, making early morning or evening hiking preferable.

Water source reliability varies: While Lake Georgetown provides water access, reaching the shoreline isn't always straightforward from campsites. Seasonal creeks and tributaries may run dry, so carrying sufficient water remains essential regardless of proximity to the lake.

Terrain can be rugged: Though marketed as moderate difficulty, sections of the trail feature rocky terrain requiring proper footwear. Ankle support becomes important when carrying full backpacking loads across uneven ground.

Tips for camping with families

Short out-and-back options: For families with younger children, consider camping within the first mile of a trailhead. This allows for an authentic primitive camping experience while maintaining a manageable evacuation route if needed.

Wildlife education opportunities: The diverse ecosystem provides excellent teaching moments about local flora and fauna. Bringing field guides specific to Central Texas helps identify plants, tracks, and animal signs along the trail.

Test gear before committing: Use this location as a training ground before more remote backcountry trips. The relatively accessible nature of the trail means you can abort if equipment fails or weather turns problematic.

Tips from RVers

Trailhead parking limitations: RVs over 25 feet may struggle at certain access points due to limited turning radius. Scout the parking situation before committing to overnight parking, especially at smaller trailheads.

Base camp strategy: Some RVers use developed campgrounds near Lake Georgetown as a base camp, then hike into the primitive sites for day use or overnight stays. This approach allows access to facilities while still experiencing the primitive sections of the trail.

Security considerations: Overnight trailhead parking requires attention to vehicle security. Remove valuables and leave a visible note indicating your hiking plans and expected return date to reduce the likelihood of vehicle break-ins or towing concerns.