Equestrian camping near Castell, Texas centers around sites that accommodate horse owners and riders exploring the Texas Hill Country. Located in Mason County at approximately 1,400 feet elevation, this region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F and mild winters, making spring and fall the optimal seasons for horseback camping. Water levels at lakeside camping areas fluctuate seasonally, affecting both shoreline access and natural watering opportunities.
What to do
Trail riding near Lake Travis: Shaffer Bend Recreation Area offers riding trails with minimal elevation changes. "This is a great little place on Lake Travis. Trails are easy. Campsites are clean with a fire pit and a grill. There is easy access to the lake to go swim or paddle," notes Candice C.
Horse watering access: Equestrian campers can find natural watering points along Lake Travis shorelines. "Going in the spring time is the best because of all the wildflowers... Be mindful that Lake Travis is not a constant level lake and this is a narrow and shallow part of the lake," advises Candice C.
Day excursions to nearby parks: Pedernales Falls State Park provides additional riding opportunities within a 45-minute drive. "The falls are beautiful, lots of trees to help provide shade, and typical nice state park trails for the area. A beautiful small river near the back country camping," shares R W.
What campers like
Secluded lake access: Sites at Shaffer Bend provide private water access points. "Site 15 has an awesome view of the river/lake and it's walking distance down to the waters edge. Great spot to fish for some bass or take a dip in the water," explains Steve L.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Texas Hill Country offers abundant animal sightings. At Kerrville-Schreiner Park, visitors report "We saw a deer, squirrels, and even a herd of blackbuck antelope," according to Jackie R.
Seasonal wildflower displays: Spring brings impressive wildflower blooms to the region. "Going in the spring time is the best because of all the wildflowers. Trails are easy," mentions Candice C. about Shaffer Bend Recreation Area.
What you should know
Limited facility access: Primitive camping conditions predominate at horse-friendly sites. At Shaffer Bend, "It is a primitive campground. The large camp area has a couple port-a-poties. At the gate entrance there are men's and women's rooms with running water. That's about 3 miles from the camp sites," warns Erik F.
Summer heat challenges: Texas summers create demanding conditions for horses and riders. "We stayed here for 4 days before Memorial Day weekend and it was hot. There are no showers or bath houses. Texas in summer can be unforgiving," cautions Kyle G. at Shaffer Bend.
Wildlife awareness required: Venomous snakes inhabit the area, requiring vigilance. "Also it's Texas and there is wildlife. We saw about a 5 ft rattlesnake," reports Candice C. about her Shaffer Bend experience.
Tips for camping with families
Select sites with appropriate facilities: Fort Mason City Park provides family-friendly alternatives with better amenities. "Beautiful little park with both back in & pull through spots, full hookups, and deer everywhere! Campground manager is very kind and helpful," shares Chelsea R.
Consider playgrounds and activity options: Parks with recreational facilities work best for children. At Fort Mason, "There is a rundown playground in the main park and there is a newer playground in the middle of the baseball fields. We were here for a week with a 3 year old and we stayed mostly on the property," mentions Amie M.
Beach areas for cooling off: Sandy shorelines provide relief from heat. "The site we had was walking distance to the sandy beach of lake Travis. Great fishing and the sand carrier up so it's a soft bedding for the evening," notes Steve L. about Shaffer Bend.
Tips from RVers
Choose full hookup options: Freedom Lives Ranch RV Resort accommodates both horses and RVs. "30/50 electric, water and sewer. Has a clubhouse with a fully stocked kitchen free to use. Showers and laundry. All this plus you can board your pets and horses!! All pull through sites," recommends Becky B.
Verify site dimensions for horse trailers: Pull-through options work best for trailers. "We towed with an electric vehicle, on the last day they let us move to an empty site with hookups and charge from the 50 amp outlet, which opened up a better route home," shares Kurt Z. about Freedom Lives Ranch.
Research seasonal considerations: Water levels impact camping quality year-round. "Lake Travis is home to boaters and Jet skiers. There are fish if you're into that," notes Kyle G., highlighting the varying conditions at Shaffer Bend.
