Canyon Lake and the Blanco River form the backbone of glamping close to Blanco, Texas. Situated in the Texas Hill Country at an elevation around 1,300 feet, the region experiences mild winters and hot summers with occasional flash flooding. Campsites range from secluded river spots to family-friendly resort-style parks with dedicated glamping accommodations that provide alternatives to the upscale options already established in the area.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several locations offer access to well-stocked fishing areas around Canyon Lake. "The pond is stocked full with bass and bluegill and you can catch 10 fish in 10 minutes," notes a visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Canyon Lake.
Hiking terrain: The trails at Pedernales Falls State Park provide varying difficulty levels with some routes leading to geological features. "Great hiking trails here. Good swimming. The falls are pretty. You can walk upriver from the falls, bouldering for quite a long way," reports Emily M. about Pedernales Falls State Park.
Water recreation: Canyon Lake offers swimming, boating and tubing depending on water levels. "We took jet skis and had a blast," shares Robert A. about their experience at COE Canyon Lake Canyon Park, noting that their campsite "overlooked a small beach area where you could swim and launch boats."
What campers like
Proximity to town services: The convenience of nearby amenities provides flexibility for meal planning and supply runs. "No need to pack groceries as the park is right off the Main Street. We've enjoyed most of their restaurants around their courthouse. It's great because we don't have to cook," writes a camper about Blanco State Park.
Spacious sites: Some parks provide ample room between campsites for privacy. "The campsites are okay size and wooded for privacy between the campsites. Hook ups for both water and electricity, if needed," comments Kaitlyn M. about her stay at Pedernales Falls State Park.
Diverse accommodation options: Various glamping setups accommodate different preferences. "It has tents, small cabins, glamping, pull through RV and hybrid tent/RV spots. In all approximately 20 sites," notes Brett S. about his stay at Ranch 3232, which offers glamping near Johnson City.
What you should know
Weather concerns: Flash flooding presents a real danger in the Hill Country. "Made me aware of how serious flash flooding is here. Respect weather warnings!" advises Faith S. about her experience at Pedernales Falls State Park.
Bathroom facilities: Quality and availability of restrooms varies significantly between parks. "The bathrooms are in top shape," reports Marnie G. about Blanco State Park, while reviews of other facilities may note primitive conditions.
Reservation timing: Booking well in advance is essential, especially for glamping options. "Make reservations months in advance," advises Chris C. about Jellystone Park, which offers family-oriented glamping accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Multiple water features provide entertainment for different age groups. "Water park is a parents heaven, see the kids from just about anywhere within the park. i.e. relax parents at the table. Have an adult conversation for once," recommends a visitor to Jellystone Park.
Shade considerations: Tree cover impacts comfort levels during hot months. "The sites along the lake front do not have trees for shade but the ones in the back row have nice trees," notes Laura F. about Potters Creek Park, providing useful site selection advice.
Safety protocols: Some parks maintain regular security checks. "I let the office know it was just us ladies and they surveyed the area to see how many folks were staying in the area to make me feel more at ease," shares Stephanie G. about her experience at Cranes Mill Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: Navigating larger rigs requires planning at some locations. "Only Con is it is an older park and kind of hard to maneuver larger rigs in the park. Some of the pull thrus are kinda tight," warns Chris C. about Jellystone Park.
Hookup availability: Service connections vary between parks. "All hookups. A very nice experience!" reports Len L. about Cranes Mill Park, while others may offer only partial hookups or require self-contained units.
Community amenities: Shared facilities can enhance the glamping experience. "You have the choice of camping at a tent site, park your RV, to glamp in a yurt or cabin, or even walk out to a more secluded 'TentRR' site... there's a community kitchen with small appliances/dishes and the bathhouse with showers, toilets, and vanities," describes Rachel B. about Ranch 3232, highlighting the practical advantages for extended stays.
