Primitive camping near Bertram, Texas centers on the San Gabriel River Trail system that encircles Lake Georgetown. This 26.2-mile trail offers multiple free dispersed camping areas accessible primarily through hiking or boating. During weekdays, campers often experience complete solitude on the trail, while weekends bring more activity including scout troops practicing backpacking skills. The trail terrain varies between forest sections and open grasslands with approximately 40% tree coverage throughout the route.
What to do
Water activities at the lake: When camping at Walnut Springs Primitive Campground, visitors can access the lake for various water activities. One camper noted, "There was a backpacking group, a group of people who canoed in, and ourselves," showing the water access options available.
Overnight backpacking circuit: The complete San Gabriel River Trail offers an ideal weekend backpacking experience for those seeking a moderate challenge. The 26.2-mile loop can be completed in segments with overnight stays at the primitive sites along the route. A camper at San Gabriel River Trail explained, "The trail passes through forests, grasslands, over some small hills and across a few tributaries," providing varied terrain throughout the journey.
Wildlife observation: The trail system provides opportunities to observe native Texas wildlife, particularly during early morning and evening hours. Quieter sections of the trail away from popular access points offer the best chances for wildlife encounters.
What campers like
Multiple access options: Campers appreciate the flexibility of reaching these primitive sites through different methods. One visitor at Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites shared, "The Sawyer Park site is only accessible by hiking or by a boat. It is about 5 miles from the Tejas Campground and 5 miles from Cedar Breaks Campground."
Lakeside camping spots: Some campers prefer to find spots near the water rather than using designated areas. A camper reported, "We ended up not following our AllTrails after a fork in the road heading towards the campsite, and were pretty pooped so decided to camp there off Sawyer Campsite Rd. People had clearly used the shore as a campsite before as there was a makeshift fire pit and some cleared areas for tents."
Weekday solitude: The trail system becomes notably quiet during weekdays. A frequent visitor noted, "During the weekdays you may not see a single person," making it ideal for those seeking isolation and quiet camping experiences.
What you should know
Limited facilities across all sites: Primitive camping near Bertram requires proper preparation. According to a camper, "No amenities; be prepared to dig cat hole, if drinking lake water be prepared to filter and sterilize." All sites require complete self-sufficiency.
Seasonal challenges: Summer heat combined with limited shade can create difficult hiking conditions. A regular visitor warned, "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 all that you can."
Water planning essential: Despite camping near a lake, water access points aren't always convenient. A hiker cautioned, "While you may be hiking within site of Lake Georgetown and the water, it is not always convenient to access the water. So be sure to carry plenty of water - at least 2 liters."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection considerations: When camping with children at Walnut Springs, look for the areas with more tree coverage. A visitor described, "Large open area; for fire pits for lamp hangers for picnic tables trees closer the trail and grass sea areas closer to the water."
Accessibility factors: Families should consider the hiking distances required to reach each site. For easier access with children, one camper pointed out, "Can be biked in from camp Tejas four miles away or can hiking from Russell Park 2 mi away."
Weather preparedness: The area experiences sudden weather changes that can impact camping comfort. A camper shared their experience: "Enjoyed our stay during a thunderstorm under the big trees," demonstrating that proper shelter selection can allow camping even during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
No RV access to primitive sites: All primitive camping areas around Lake Georgetown require hiking or boating access. No RV camping is available at these specific primitive sites.
Nearby developed alternatives: For RV camping, consider the developed campgrounds that provide trailhead access to the primitive areas. Several campers mention Tejas Campground and Cedar Breaks Campground as starting points for hikes to the primitive sites.
Day-use strategy: RVers can park at trailheads, hike to primitive sites for exploration, and return to RV parks in Georgetown or surrounding communities with full hookups for overnight stays.
