1 campground with availability next weekend
Tent campers visiting the Texas Hill Country near Boerne have several established options within a 30-mile radius, including Government Canyon State Natural Area and Guadalupe River State Park. These public lands offer designated tent camping areas with varying levels of accessibility and amenities. The Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, though slightly farther at about 50 miles northwest, provides some of the most distinctive tent camping experiences in the region with both walk-in sites and primitive backcountry options.
Most tent sites in the area require reservations, particularly at Government Canyon where camping is limited to Friday and Saturday nights only. The walk-in tent sites typically feature crushed rock or dirt tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings, though fire bans are common during dry periods. Government Canyon's tent sites include storage cupboards and hanging posts for food storage to prevent wildlife encounters. Composting toilets are available at most primitive tent camping areas, eliminating the need to dig catholes. Water spigots are strategically placed at trailheads in Government Canyon, but backcountry campers should pack in all water needs, especially at Enchanted Rock's Moss Lake and Walnut Springs primitive areas.
The tent-only walk-in sites provide a more secluded experience compared to developed campgrounds. At Enchanted Rock, the primitive tent sites require hikes of 1.5-2 miles from parking areas, creating natural separation from day-use crowds. The Moss Lake primitive tent area offers views of the granite dome and soft sand clearings for comfortable tent placement. Tree cover varies significantly between sites, with some offering ample shade while others provide minimal protection from the Texas sun. A review mentioned that "the grounds themselves are soft sand clearings, some more shaded than others" at Enchanted Rock's backcountry sites. Tent campers at Government Canyon benefit from proximity to hiking trails, including routes to dinosaur tracks and historical sites, while maintaining a natural setting just outside San Antonio.
"Government Canyon State Natural Area is conveniently located near San Antonio, TX. Many visitors visit from San Antonio for the day or for the weekend."
"The campsites are all walk in, but not a great distance. Camp sites vary in size, but all have fire rings, a place to hang trash, and a storage cupboard."
Available next weekend
from $18 - $40 / night
"It seemed like part of the sitting area was literally on the trail for those walking to further sites out. However, I am still giving 5 stars because the fireflies were absolutely stunning."
"There was a bathroom a short walk away and a trail as well. Access to the river was a short walk past the parking area and the trail led to a loop of pull-up / drive-in camping sites."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $15 / night
"The picturesque drive to Bankersmith, TX via old San Antonio Rd is worth the trip alone! Lovely wildflowers along the way. Once off old San Antonio the private road into the camp is crushed gravel."
from $30 / night
"Once you walk about 20 feet, you’ll be in complete darkness without a light."
"You'll be walking on solid granite. During the summer the temperatures rise sharply and there is limited shade to rest under on the summit."
from $14 / night
"Tent camping is all they offer here I believe. I went on solo weekend camp out and really enjoyed it. The grounds are nice. You are not allowed to hang anything from trees which is a bummer."
"Drove 3.5hrs from Dickinson, TX with more than enough time to hike out to our camp site, set up and catch an unbelievable sunset from one of the scenic lookouts."
from $14 / night
from $12 / night
"Absolutely hidden gem in the Texas Hill Country. Has a hidden cave and big rock in the river to jump off and it’s private!"
from $120 - $160 / night
"canyon lake is beautiful!"
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $20 / night
"I was happy to find out Son’s recently opened up a place out there as we had visited a couple of their other locations and they had been very family friendly."
"It’s a very family friendly location compared to others on River Road. We tubed Whol we stayed there as well."
ScoutI stayed in an RV spot with my SUV camper. There are lots of trees and wildlife around. A herd of deer visited my camp in the early morning. There is some distant road noise but it is more of a white noise. The roosters in the distance at sunrise was cute! I didn't make the cave tour but hope to during a future visit. Staff was very friendly. Site 17 is off the beaten path from the others, recommend.
ScoutClean campground, laundry facilities available. Close enough to everything in San Antonio. Can’t beat the prices. Must be rated veteran to get on base.
GuideWell equipped and maintained rv park with pools, laundry facilities, dog park etc. Friendly and helpfull staff. And reasonable pricing
ScoutGreat campground with resort amenities
GuideMy husband has two years assigned and we set him up in a tiny home away from home. Michelle is an amazing manager and caring person. She doesn’t get pushed around and I respect that. She’s very sweet.
Debbie is as sweet as pie. She works in the office and is a tenant here. I think she’s a great person.
ScoutJackie at the front desk needs to go. RUDE.
ScoutThis used to be a place we enjoyed coming to. Perfectly located, nice facilities and decent campground with level sites. What has got me twisted over the past several years are investors buying up the decent campgrounds, raising the prices and charging fee after fee after fee. And this one is no different. Site Lock-in Fee $10.00, it’s available or it isn’t. Stop the bs Admin Fee $5.00; for what? Online Booking Fee $6.75; I did all the work booking the site? Service Fee $7.40; for what, there was no service provided
Someone please create an app of just mom and pop campgrounds that don’t believe in all this BS and let’s get back to the way it used to be.
ScoutYou want to see someone have a power trip? Look no further! The guy managing the place always has a problem with repair companies getting his residents fixed. Always demanding crazy things just to appease him. He’s threatened to call the cops on for not“checking in” with him, when we checked in with his wife and he just wasn’t informed.
He calls me today and tells me we can no longer provide rv repair service there because of another power trip move. Stay far away. The guy managing the place is a complete joke and so rude to everyone that comes thru there.
I hope the owner realizes why he’s getting bad reviews. It’s because of bad management. His wife is an amazing woman. It’s Greg that’s the issue. For those wanting to stay here. Stay far away. Unless you like to be micro managed on everything you do.
ScoutI recently visited this campground on July 3rd and when I got to the gate to discuss accessing the campground to meet up with a cousin who had reserved a spot I was greeted by a old Caucasian man who came off a little rude. I asked if they provide a military discount since I am in fact a disabled veteran and his response was no. Then I asked if I can just pay for a daily pass since I was only going to be there that evening and half the day the next day being the 4th of July and his response was no I can only purchase a 3 day pass at$12 per adult. Well I ended having to pay$99.62 to gain access to this campground and if you do the math 2 adults at$12 a person for 3 days does not equal$99.62. This place is a scam and take advantage of disabled military veterans! I would give this place a negative number of stars if there was that option!
Tent camping opportunities near Boerne, Texas range across the hilly terrain of central Texas, where elevations average 1,400 feet above sea level. The limestone karst topography creates unique camping environments with exposed rock features, seasonal creeks, and juniper-oak woodlands. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F between June and September, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons with daytime temperatures between 65-85°F.
Night sky viewing: Government Canyon provides exceptional stargazing opportunities with limited light pollution. "I have never seen so many stars! Most beautiful thing I have ever seen!" noted one camper at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.
Waterway exploration: Guadalupe River access allows cooling off during hot Texas days. "The river is a bit shallow at their location for swimming (much of the Guadalupe is) but it the perfect depth to get in relax and cool off. This section of the Guadalupe River is very clear and flows great for tubing," reports a visitor to Son's Guadalupe.
Wildlife observation: Early morning trails provide the best opportunities for spotting native species. "Would recommend waking early to take advantage of the beautiful sunrise and observe the local wildlife," suggests a camper who stayed at Wagon Ford Walk-In Area.
Cave exploration: Hidden limestone features attract adventurous campers seeking geological exploration. "Absolutely hidden gem in the Texas Hill Country. Has a hidden cave and big rock in the river to jump off and it's private!" reports a visitor to White Bluff Big Rock.
Historical sites: Remnants of early settlements provide cultural interest for hikers. "There are some dino tracks in the creekbed to check out in the backcountry along with an old stone house. Supposedly there are some hidden caves off trail but I haven't found them," notes a Government Canyon visitor.
River sounds: Natural white noise enhances overnight experiences at riverside sites. "Primitive tent pads in small culdesac right next to the river. Relaxing sound of rushing water. Convenient access at most all trails," reports a Wagon Ford camper.
Reservation timing: Popular spots fill quickly during peak seasons. "This is a very popular park, so get there early if you want to get in," advises a visitor to Enchanted Rock.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal bans affect cooking options at most sites. "Alcohol is not allowed but no one checks your camp so don't be rude and you can drink," mentions a visitor to Government Canyon State Natural Area.
Trail closures: Rain impacts can limit hiking options. "Beware of trail closures when it rains. Show up early on the weekend when it's nice out otherwise all of San Antonio will be lined up to get in," warns a Government Canyon visitor.
Dog-friendly trail limitations: Research before arrival to avoid disappointment with pets. "We found that there were only 2 trails that were dog friendly. We didn't realize there were two separate areas for the trails allowing and not allowing dogs," shares a Government Canyon visitor.
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities enhance children's experiences. "The guided hikes are informative," notes a Government Canyon camper.
Cabana options: Day use shelters provide shade during hot weather. "We rented a cabana for the day as well as an air-conditioned glamping tent to stay overnight. We had such a great time! The cabanas sit right on the bank of the river and have everything you need including: seating, picnic table, BBQ pit electricity and water," explains a visitor to Son's Guadalupe.
Tent camping versus RV access: Suitable for both at select locations. "The picturesque drive to Bankersmith, TX via old San Antonio Rd is worth the trip alone! Lovely wildflowers along the way. Once off old San Antonio the private road into the camp is crushed gravel. Some ruts when I was there, but totally passable. I just went slowly," shares a visitor to Bankersmith, TX.
Generator considerations: Policies vary across campsites. "Camp Bankersmith is dry camping (generator use ok) in a fairly level cow pasture with pretty hill country views," notes a Bankersmith visitor.
Road conditions: Access challenges affect vehicle requirements. "The park is very clean. There's plenty of parking if you don't wanna camp. While not trying to be a skeptic. I wasn't very impressed with what they call dinosaur tracks. You'll have to judge for yourself," shares a Government Canyon day visitor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Boerne, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Boerne, TX is Government Canyon State Natural Area with a 4.4-star rating from 14 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Boerne, TX?
TheDyrt.com has all 18 tent camping locations near Boerne, TX, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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