Tent camping around Caddo, Texas centers primarily on river access points along the San Marcos and Guadalupe Rivers. The region experiences mild winters with average lows around 40°F and hot summers reaching 95°F, making spring and fall ideal for comfortable camping conditions. Primitive sites typically cost $15-25 per person per night, with most campgrounds requiring separate day-use fees for river recreation access.
What to do
River recreation: Son's River Ranch provides tubing and kayaking opportunities with convenient shuttle service. According to Byron R., "We rented some tubes and they took us up river a couple of miles to float back down to our cabana which was very convenient. The scenery on the tubing trip is absolutely gorgeous, huge cliffs and cypress trees!"
Day camping: Most riverside campgrounds offer day-use options separate from overnight stays. At Son's Guadalupe, campers can rent cabanas for daytime river access. Reviewer Janet G. notes, "The $199.48 is only for the hours of 7pm to 10am. I can only be on the property from 7pm to 10am. I was informed that I needed day use and to rent a table or cabana to be on the property from 10am to 7pm."
Swimming spots: The shallow waters at several access points provide safe wading areas. "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," reports Byron R. about the Guadalupe River access.
What campers like
Air-conditioned glamping: Many campgrounds offer climate-controlled accommodations as alternatives to traditional tent sites. At Son's Blue River Camp, one camper reported, "We stayed in one of their air-conditioned glamping cabins. It was very nice and clean and the AC stayed very cold. They have private, lockable, full bathrooms right behind the cabins."
Weekday tranquility: For those seeking quiet experiences, weekdays provide significantly less crowded conditions. A reviewer at Helton Nature Park stated it was "a very calming experience. If you looking for a park to relax and enjoy a day I would recommend."
Comprehensive amenities: Several camping areas feature extensive on-site activities beyond water recreation. At Son's Geronimo, campers appreciate that "They have lots of amenities: 2 pools, 2 hot tubs, volleyball court, basketball court, game room, horseshoe pits and more."
What you should know
Separate day/night fees: Most riverside campgrounds charge separate fees for overnight stays and daytime access. Byron R. explains, "They rent everything a-la-carte, so if you plan to stay the night you need to rent a cabana or covered picnic table during the day."
Shower facilities: Bathroom access varies widely between established and primitive sites. At Don's Fish Camp, reviewer Nicole N. confirms the campground provides "Bathrooms and showers" at the $20 per night per person rate.
Seasonal availability: Some campgrounds operate on limited seasonal schedules. North Park at Canyon Lake lists its operational season as "Mar 1 to Oct 31," limiting winter camping options.
Reservation requirements: Many popular campgrounds fill quickly, particularly for weekend visits. One camper advises, "It can get a bit crowded on weekends so go during the week if you're not wanting to be around crowds."
Tips for camping with families
Look for family-friendly properties: Some locations specifically cater to family groups with appropriate amenities. "This section of the Guadalupe River is very clear and flows great for tubing," notes Byron R., who visited Son's Island with children.
Consider cabins over tents: For families with young children, cabins reduce setup stress. As one visitor described, "Our glamping cabin was nice, it was well worth the money to not to have to set up a tent and do all that work."
Check for inclusive pricing: Confirm whether children require separate admission fees. Nicole N. notes that at Don's Fish Camp, "Children 12 and under are free," providing cost savings for family groups.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: Few campgrounds in the Caddo area offer comprehensive RV services. According to campground data, most riverside locations lack sewer hookups and sanitary dump stations, requiring RVers to plan accordingly.
Size restrictions: Most river-access campgrounds cannot accommodate large rigs. At North Park, one camper noted it's a "small but clean, friendly, core of engineers campground! so no sewage but you can dump black water when you leave!"
Weekend congestion: RVers report significant traffic on access roads during summer weekends. Weekday visits are recommended for easier navigation to camping areas and quieter conditions once established.
