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Best Dispersed Camping near Burnet, TX

4 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Burnet, Texas centers around the San Gabriel River Trail area, where three primitive camping locations provide free backcountry options. Walnut Springs Primitive Campground, Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites, and San Gabriel River Trail all offer hike-in or walk-in access with minimal amenities. These sites are part of the trail system circling Lake Georgetown, requiring campers to park at trailheads and hike to their camping locations. No permits are required for these primitive sites, though following Leave No Trace principles is essential for preserving the natural environment.

Access to these dispersed camping areas requires preparation for primitive conditions. All three locations are accessible only by hiking or, in some cases, by boat. Sawyer Park is approximately 5 miles from established campgrounds, while Walnut Springs can be reached by hiking 2 miles from Russell Park or biking 4 miles from Camp Tejas. The 26.2-mile San Gabriel River Trail passes through forests, grasslands, and small hills, with camping allowed in designated areas with tent pads or in zones where setting up is permitted. Fire rings exist at some locations, and fires are generally allowed, but no facilities for water, trash, or restrooms are available.

The primitive camping experience around Burnet provides opportunities for solitude and nature immersion. The terrain varies from forested areas to open grasslands, with approximately 40% of the trail offering tree coverage. One camper noted, "This is possibly the easiest campground on the Good Water Trail to get to, which may result in more people at this site than others." Summer conditions can be challenging due to heat and sun exposure, with limited shade in many areas. Visitors should carry at least 2 liters of water while hiking and be prepared to filter lake water for drinking. Weekdays typically offer more solitude, while weekends may bring encounters with other hikers and backpacking groups. The sites accommodate tent camping, with some areas featuring picnic tables and makeshift fire pits near the shoreline.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Burnet, Texas (3)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Burnet, TX

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Burnet, TX

4 Reviews of 3 Burnet Campgrounds

  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2019

    San Gabriel River Trail

    San Gabriel River Trail + Lake

    This is a review of the primitive (dispersed) campsites along the San Gabriel River Trail. 

    Upon entering one of the access points, park your car for free near the trailhead. It is good to advise one of the park attendants that you will be hiking or place a note inside your car that you are hiking. 

    The trail circles Lake Georgetown and is 26.2 miles. It passes through forests, grasslands, over some small hills and across a few tributaries. 

    This is prmitive (dispersed) camping. There are no facilities or amenities are these camp areas. Pack in some water and bring a water filter to obtain more. Leave No Trace principals should be practiced. 

    There are a few areas with tent pads or clear areas where you may camp. But there are also zones where you may simply camp wherever you can setup a tent or hammock.  I'd say that 40% of the trail has some tree coverage, but 60% is exposed. 

    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. 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.

    The trail is getting more and more popular with backpackers, so it is likely that you may see others on the trail. On weekends you may encounter scout troops practicing backpacking. During the weekdays you may not see a single person.

    Dogs are allowed on the trail, but it is nice to keep them on lease.

  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2019

    Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites

    Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites

    This is a review of the Sawyer Park primitive (dispersed) campsites along the San Gabriel River Trail. There are no facilities or amenities are this campsite. Leave No Trace principals should be practiced.

    Upon entering one of the access points, park your car for free near the trailhead. It is good to advise one of the park administers that you will be hiking or place a note inside your car that you are hiking. 

    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. This is primitive (dispersed) camping. There are a few areas with clear land or tent pads where you may camp. But there are also zones where you may simply camp wherever you can setup a tent or hammock. There is an old latrine at this site, but it is in poor shape and no-one really uses it. Be prepared to dig a cat hole. 

    Many people stay at this site while hiking the San Gabriel River Trail. The trail circles Lake Georgetown and is 26.2 miles. It passes through forests, grasslands, over some small hills and across a few tributaries.

    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. While you may be hiking within site of Lake Georgetown, it is not always convenient to access the water. So carry plenty of water while hiking - at least 2 liters. 

    The trail is getting more and more popular with backpackers, so it is likely that you may see others on the trail. On weekends you may encounter scout troops practicing backpacking. During the weekdays you may not see a single person. Dogs are allowed on the trail, but it is nice to keep them on lease.

  • Guillermo L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2021

    Walnut Springs Primitive Campground

    Tent camping recommended.

    I'm very last minute camping trip on a Sunday evening to Monday morning... There was a backpacking group, a group of people who canoed in, and ourselves. Large open area; for fire pits for lamp hangers for picnic tables trees closer the trail and grass sea areas closer to the water. Can be biked in from camp Tejas four miles away or can hiking from Russell Park 2 mi away.

    No amenities; be prepared to dig cat hole, if drinking lake water be prepared to filter and sterilize. This is possibly the easiest campgrounds on the good water trail to get to which may result in there being more people at this site than others. This is the "first come, first serve" campground.

    Enjoyed our stay during a thunderstorm under the big trees.

  • Alexandra
    Jan. 13, 2021

    Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites

    Camped out of the campsite near the lake

    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. water and views were beautiful, and it was a nice place to rest after the 6 miles in. Rain started pretty heavily (and being close to the water probably didn’t help with humidity inside the tent) and our rain fly was unwilling to cooperate so we got a bit wet. The home back in the rain was fine. A couple slippery spots but very doable. Overall great time here even though we weren’t at the official campsite.

Guide to Burnet

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Burnet, Texas, where nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in serene landscapes and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. With several options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore.

Gorman Falls for dispersed campers

  • The hike to Gorman Falls offers stunning views and a rewarding experience, making it a must-visit for those camping in the area.
  • This location is known for its picturesque scenery, but be prepared for a steep descent that may challenge younger campers or those with pets.
  • Wildlife sightings, including mountain lions, add an element of adventure to your stay, so keep your eyes peeled while hiking.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Burnet, Texas

  • When visiting San Gabriel River Trail, remember to pack plenty of water, as access to it can be limited along the trail.
  • This area allows for campfires, making it a great spot for evening gatherings under the stars, but be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles.
  • Expect to encounter other campers, especially on weekends, so plan your trip accordingly for a more secluded experience.

Dispersed campers should check out Windmill Backpack Area

  • The Windmill Backpack Area provides a sense of isolation, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature.
  • Campers can explore a loop around the park, offering a variety of landscapes and opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation.
  • Be aware that this area requires a permit, so plan ahead to ensure a smooth camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Burnet, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Burnet, TX is Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites with a 4-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Burnet, TX?

TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Burnet, TX, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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