Primitive camping options abound within a 30-mile radius of Cedar Park, Texas. The area sits at elevations between 800-1,200 feet, with temperatures often exceeding 95°F from June through September. Campers should plan for hot, dry conditions throughout the summer months, with spring and fall offering more moderate temperatures for tent camping adventures.
What to do
Hiking the Goodwater Loop: Tejas Park provides access to the 26-mile Goodwater Trail circling Lake Georgetown. According to one camper, "The Goodwater Loop runs right by the campground. The Goodwater Loop is a 26 mile trail that will take you completely around the lake." Multiple trailheads allow for shorter day hikes or full backpacking trips.
Kayaking and fishing: Turkey Bend Recreation Area offers excellent water access for paddlers. "You can camp on the water or in secluded sites surrounded by trees. There are even a handful of sites that are separate and a little more private," notes one visitor. Bring your own equipment as rentals aren't available on-site.
Wildlife viewing: Grelle Recreation Area provides opportunities to spot local wildlife. One camper reports, "There were lots of deer, really neat to look at. The deer didn't even seem bothered by us." Morning and evening hours offer the best viewing opportunities.
Swimming in the river: Several campgrounds feature water access points. At Camp Creek Recreation Area, you can camp directly beside the river. As one visitor notes, "Free camping along the river. Sites are nicely spaced out. River access for boating." Water levels vary seasonally, so check conditions before planning water activities.
What campers like
Private campsites: Shaffer Bend Recreation Area offers well-spaced campsites near Lake Travis. "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. Lots of tree cover to help combat the sun," shares one visitor.
Stargazing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer minimal light pollution for night sky viewing. One camper at Grelle Recreation Area reports, "It was delightful to sit in the water of lake Travis and watch the stars on a warm texas summer night."
Secluded experiences: Some of the best tent camping near Cedar Park provides genuine seclusion. A camper at Russell Park shares, "This is a great little spot. Very secluded for being so close to civilization. Perfect for a weekend camp."
Natural surroundings: Many campsites feature native vegetation and terrain. At Shaffer Bend, "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."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds offer only basic amenities. A Russell Park visitor notes, "Men's restroom was decently clean, shower worked well. If you want a spotless bathroom, hike over to the underused day use area."
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for local wildlife. One camper at Shaffer Bend warns, "It's Texas and there is wildlife. We saw about a 5 ft rattlesnake."
Seasonal water levels: Lake Travis water levels fluctuate significantly. "There is a chance of low water levels. Also it's Texas and there is wildlife," advises a Shaffer Bend camper.
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking. At Russell Park, "At this point, you must have a reservation to camp here."
Plant hazards: Camp Creek Recreation Area and similar sites can have painful vegetation. A Shaffer Bend visitor warns, "Only negative is the amount of stickers everywhere. Got one right between the toes."
Tips for camping with families
Select shaded sites: Look for campgrounds with good tree coverage. At Tejas Park, a family reports, "My 5 year old wanted to go camping for the first time. This location is close enough to be near civilization, but feels remote to get the primitive camping experience. The sites have a pad to set up your tent, along with fire rings and plenty of shade."
Consider accessibility: Some sites require lengthy walks from parking. At Shaffer Bend, "The walk to our campsite wasn't far from parking, maybe about 150 feet, maybe a bit more."
Pack extra water: Most sites have limited or no water sources. "I do think 25 bucks for a place with no running water, no electric, and no actual bathroom is expensive but this park is actually extremely nice and the view is great," notes a Camp Creek visitor.
Check noise levels: Some campgrounds experience significant noise. A Tejas Park camper mentions, "Also there's no posted or briefed quiet hours so people were up and loud all night and we'll into the morning."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose campsites based on shade and accessibility. A Shaffer Bend visitor with a small RV reports, "Relaxing and clean. Very windy, so no bugs! Dogs love running along water's edge and jumping in. Horses ok too from the looks of it. Sites 1-13 closer together and more in site if each other but still ok. Great hiking and walking. Small RV plus tent for us."
Bring your own power: Most tent camping near Cedar Park lacks hookups. "No electrical hook-ups, so bring your solar panels," advises a Muleshoe Bend visitor.
Research water access: Water levels affect site quality. "Shaffer Bend Rec. Area has a beautiful setting in the Texas Hill Country right off of Lake Travis. At the gate entrance you have wonderful landscape views. All of the camp sites are situated next to or a short walk to the water."
