Bertram, Texas sits at an elevation of 1,316 feet above sea level in the Texas Hill Country, where the summer heat often exceeds 100°F and winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing. The area's limestone terrain creates unique camping conditions with rocky outcroppings and small elevation changes throughout campsites. Water levels at nearby lakes and swimming holes fluctuate seasonally, affecting campground access and recreation options.
What to do
Rock jumping at Pace Bend: Take a plunge from limestone cliffs at Pace Bend Park, where swimming and cliff jumping draw summer visitors. "My favorite part about this campsite is the ability to cliff jump into a lake. I love the water and this campsite was perfect for me," notes Aaron S.
Waterfall swimming: Explore multiple swimming areas with natural rock formations at spring-fed sites. "The mini waterfalls here are really neat along with the rock formations. Good family-friendly camping for sure," explains Michael C. about the swimming areas near Austin.
Winter hiking: Take advantage of cooler temperatures from November through March for comfortable hiking when trails are less crowded. "Stayed here on Monday, December 21 (winter solstice) 2020. There were only four other campsites taken. It was very quiet. We went mountain biking in shorts the first day and a backpack training hike the next," shares Rick about his experience at Pace Bend Park.
Trail exploration: Follow the Good Water Loop around Lake Georgetown for day hikes with water views. "There's no marked public lake access, no swim beach so you just gotta kinda find a spot to get to the water. Great hiking trails," explains Mark S. about Cedar Breaks Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots with natural barriers. "The sites are large which means you aren't right on top of your neighbors. Lots of shade. Each site has its own shelter with picnic table, grill and fire pit," says Karen H. about Cedar Breaks Park.
Year-round camping options: The mild central Texas climate allows for camping throughout all seasons. "We stay at Pace Bend every time we go rock climbing in Austin. The campsites are private and there are always sites available. The campsites along the cliffs are beautiful at night," notes Katie B.
Natural swimming holes: Spring-fed swimming areas maintain comfortable temperatures and clear water. "The lake is clean, cool and deep! Tons of primitive camping and most sites have a table and a grill...and PRIVACY!" Jenny R. writes about Pace Bend Park.
Yurt camping options: Several sites around Bertram offer yurt accommodations with varying amenities. "One of my all-time favorites. I happily drive over three hours to camp here... It is CASH ONLY. Also, be careful how far you venture," advises Michelle M. about her yurt camping experience at Krause Springs.
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels can drop significantly during drought conditions. "I brought my family of four here for our first solo camping trip with two littles and we loved it! The drought caused the lake to be pretty dried up so our water front view didn't have much water!" explains taylor about Grelle - Lake Travis.
Weekend crowds: Popular swimming areas become extremely crowded during summer weekends. "Decent little park close to Georgetown, TX. Georgetown is full of fun activities and great food. Expect the weekends to be super crowded, especially in the day use area (where the easiest accessible swimming spots are). During the week we had the park to ourselves," warns Mark S.
Wildlife awareness: Campers should prepare for potential wildlife encounters. "Super clean park, had a great time out here. There were lots of deer, really neat to look at. The deer didn't even seem bothered by us," notes Melissa P. about her stay at Grelle - Lake Travis.
Cash-only policies: Several campgrounds in the area don't accept credit cards. "Was planning on tent camping nearby and left a day early and all the hotel room were booked. Tried finding a tent site and no luck. Found this place online and figured I'd give it a shot. First come first serve, pick your spot, fill out the card, put it and 25 bucks in a drop box and good to go," explains Mike L. about his Camp Creek experience.
Tips for camping with families
Choose swim-friendly sites: Look for gradual water entry points for young swimmers. "The water was warm, and it was perfect for new swimmers with floaties and advanced swimmers. There's a place where you can jump off the rocks into the water," recommends Steph C. about McKinney Falls State Park.
Weekday trips preferred: Visit popular swimming spots Monday through Thursday to avoid crowds. "Love Pace Bend! It is only a 40 minute drive from Austin, perfect for a weekend get away. They have big camping sites, great for large groups! The park ranger are awesome! Going in the summer is a must," suggests Ruth P.
Snake precautions: Be aware of potential rattlesnake encounters, especially in rocky areas. "Watch out for RATTLESNAKES. We saw 2," cautions Mark S. about Cedar Breaks Park.
Primitive site planning: When choosing more rustic campgrounds, prepare for limited facilities. "We loved it. It was our first time EVER tent camping on our own, and we really enjoyed our time at Krause Springs. There were tons of camp spots, but it didn't feel crowded at all," shares Rachel W. about her family's experience.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many Hill Country campgrounds have uneven terrain. "The sites along the outside of the loop have lake views and are level. The sites along the inside are scary unlevel! Some of the big rigs were backed in and jacked up 4 feet or so in front. Saw a lady break her ankle stepping out of her camper," warns Karen H. about Leander-NW Austin KOA.
Low-hanging branches: Watch for tree limbs when navigating campground roads. "My only warning is low hanging trees everywhere. I couldn't imagine trying to navigate the campground in a 5th wheel or class A. You could do some rooftop damage," cautions Brandi W. about her experience in a Class C at Krause Springs.
Distance to amenities: Plan for limited supplies at most campgrounds. "Stayed for a week in December. Traveling with a 40' Class A RV. Getting in and out of the park was smooth for the most part just watch some overhanging limbs. Plenty of space between sites. Easy access to Austin and plenty of local options (groceries, pharmacy, restaurants, etc) just a few minutes from the park," notes Dan H. about his stay near Austin.
Dog-friendly locations: Several campgrounds welcome pets with dedicated facilities. "Nice quiet clean well organized! Amazing dog park!" reports Jason A. about the Leander-NW Austin KOA, where yurt camping near Bertram offers pet-friendly accommodations.
