Equestrian camping near Buda, Texas offers access to several recreational areas within a 60-mile radius. The Texas Hill Country terrain features limestone bedrock formations and elevations ranging from 700 to 1,300 feet, creating varied riding conditions. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F, while spring and fall months provide milder conditions for horseback riding and camping.
What to Do
Trail riding with creek access: Pedernales Falls State Park features approximately 20 miles of trails through diverse Texas Hill Country terrain. "Love the river. Lots of hiking trails here. Good swimming. The falls are pretty. You can walk upriver from the falls, bouldering for quite a long way. Classic hill country terrain," reports Emily M.
Lakeside recreation: At Arkansas Bend, campers can enjoy multiple water activities along with land-based adventures. "Was previously closed for renovations. RV and tents sites on very well manicured gravel pads. Facilities are super clean and very nice. Great playground for the kids and several miles of hiking trails," notes Jacob C.
Cliff jumping: For more adventurous visitors, Pace Bend Park offers unique recreation options. "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," says Aaron S. The park features numerous swimming spots along the cliffside areas.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area. "Muleshoe Bend has well-spaced out campsites right next to the water- super serene! There's lots of shade at the campsites and each site has a picnic table," writes Mickie B. The recreation area includes both water access and trail systems.
Natural swimming areas: The clear waters at multiple parks provide refreshing swimming opportunities. "This beautiful park is just miles away from my home. Camping, river play and over 20 geocaching sites make it a great place to wind down," shares James G. about Pedernales Falls State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently mention animal sightings. "We love coming out here. It's a gorgeous view. The water is crystal clear and it's a great place to be one with nature," notes Maira S. about camping at Canyon Lake. Many campers report deer sightings throughout the region's parks.
What You Should Know
Water level fluctuations: Shaffer Bend Recreation Area and other lakeside camping areas experience significant water level changes. "This is a great little place on Lake Travis. Going in the spring time is the best because of all the wildflowers. Trails are easy. Campsites are clean with a fire pit and a grill. Be mindful that Lake Travis is not a constant level lake and this is a narrow and shallow part of the lake," cautions Candice C.
Seasonal heat: Summer camping requires preparation for extreme temperatures. "Let me start by saying avoid July if possible and don't sleep with food in your tent. The falls are beautiful, lots of trees to help provide shade, and typical nice state park trails for the area," advises R W. about Pedernales Falls.
Wildlife awareness: Watch for various wildlife throughout the area. "Also it's Texas and there is wildlife. We saw about a 5 ft rattlesnake. Overall a great place!" reports Candice C. about Shaffer Bend. Multiple parks post warnings about snakes during warmer months.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground and hiking combination: Arkansas Bend provides family-friendly amenities. "We have enjoyed the hiking trails down by the water and the playground for our kids," notes Lauren Z.
Swimming safety: When planning horse and family trips, consider water conditions. "Pay to enter and for camping sites. You can backpack in to some of the primitive sites or stay in the HUGE camping spots. The sites are mostly private and have tent areas as well as pads for campers. You could fit a group of people all one one site with room to spare! Well kept. Bring your hiking boots and swimming suit," recommends Shelly S. about Pedernales Falls.
Equestrian-friendly options: Grelle Recreation Area accommodates various outdoor activities. "Hiking, kayaking, tenting, hammocks, mountain biking, horseback riding are all available here. Clean & flat sites, water views, quiet, convenient facilities from every site. Gorgeous trails with no end to photo ops. A pups happy place!" shares Lisa B.
Tips from RVers
Site preparation: Many campgrounds have specific considerations for RVs. "Only there for one short night but it was delightful to sit in the water of lake Travis and watch the stars on a warm texas summer night. I'm guessing it gets crowded during the day but I had enjoyed my evening there," notes Erik C. about Grelle.
Tree clearance: Watch for overhanging branches at some sites. "This place was wonderful. Spent hours just floating in the springs and natural spring pool. Kids can jump off the small Cliffside or fly on the rope swing. 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 Krause Springs.
Campsite selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs. "The camp ground is wonderful. Very spread out and wooded for privacy between the campsites. Hook ups for both water and electricity, if needed. Extremely dog friendly! Has a good little spot with a picnic table for eating at camp," recommends Kaitlyn M. about Pedernales Falls State Park.
