Hill Country State Natural Area offers more than just equestrian camping. Located about 11 miles southwest of Bandera, the park spans 5,400 acres of rugged terrain with elevation changes ranging from 1,300 to 2,100 feet. The natural area receives approximately 33 inches of rainfall annually, creating varied habitats across the limestone hills and creek beds. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F with winter lows dipping below 40°F, making spring and fall the most popular camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking with varying difficulty levels: Hill Country State Natural Area provides trails for all experience levels. One visitor noted, "There were quite a few trail systems closed that day due to the weather, but even with the limitations we were able to hike a good variety of trail. Be sure to get the info packet on the trails so that you don't find yourself hiking the equestrian trails as they can be a little rough for hikers" (Hill Country State Natural Area). Trails range from flat creek-side paths to challenging climbs with elevation gains of over 700 feet.
Equestrian trail exploration: Several horse campgrounds near Comfort, Texas provide direct trail access. The equestrian facilities at Lost Maples State Natural Area accommodate riders with dedicated camping areas. According to a visitor, "Lost Maples State Natural Area has some beautiful hiking trails and backpacking areas. If you need basic supplies you may find some at the general store in the small town nearby the park named Vanderpool" (Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground). The park features over 10 miles of trails suitable for horses.
Water recreation opportunities: The Medina River runs alongside several campgrounds in the area, offering swimming and fishing spots. As one camper at Pioneer River Resort noted, "Right in the action of Bandera, Texas. Park your RV and within walking distance of Main Street. Very friendly staff and patrons and the area is clean. Large pool for kids and has river access" (Bandera Pioneer RV River Resort).
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many equestrian camping areas near Comfort feature unusually large sites. One camper mentioned, "Super camping & hiking with our dog and friends. Set up two tents at one site, and had plenty of space for everyone" (Hill Country State Natural Area). The primitive sites typically measure 40-60 feet in length to accommodate horse trailers.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area's diverse habitats support abundant wildlife. At Kerrville-Schreiner Park, a camper reported, "We saw a deer, squirrels, and even a herd of blackbuck antelope. Our particular site was number 121 and it had a feral cat shelter, which we saw several of the cats and one caretaker stop by" (Kerrville-Schreiner Park). Early morning and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing times.
River access: Pedernales Falls State Park provides unique river features. A visitor shared, "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" (Pedernales Falls State Park Campground). The park restricts swimming to designated areas below the falls due to flash flood dangers.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many horse campgrounds near Comfort have limited connectivity. At Lost Maples, a reviewer warned, "The only drawback, is that its in a complete deadzone for cellular. I had absolutely zero service on my cellphone, antenna Tv, or wifi/4g. (Altho, thats not always a bad thing). Be prepared for emergencies if you hike the trails tho" (Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground).
Weather considerations: Flash flooding can occur rapidly in this region. A camper at Pedernales Falls noted, "This park has always been a favorite central texas spot to go to. Weve camped with scouts, camped as a family and camped with friends. A camping staple for us. Great river, view. Made me aware of how serious flash flooding is here. Respect weather warnings!" (Pedernales Falls State Park Campground).
Reservation requirements: Popular equestrian sites book quickly, especially during peak seasons. A reviewer mentioned, "For fall reservations, I booked nearly a year in advance!" (Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground).
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with shade: Texas summer heat makes shade essential. At Alamo River RV Ranch, a visitor shared, "I have camped here both in the Texas winter (Nov) and recently Texas Summers (July). It is a beautiful tucked away area. Nice trails, great tree cover and full of nature and flowing water" (Alamo River RV Ranch Resort & Campground). The campground's south section has the densest tree coverage.
Choose campgrounds with swimming options: Water features help children cool off during hot days. A Kerrville-Schreiner Park camper shared, "Took the family and had a blast. Fishing, hiking, and geocaching was great. We will be back" (Kerrville-Schreiner Park). The park's river section has gentle entry points suitable for children.
Pack extra water: Many trails lack water sources. Even campgrounds with water hookups may require additional drinking water during summer months. A Hill Country State Natural Area visitor advised, "This area of Texas gets hot so bring plenty of water. Watch for wildlife" (Hill Country State Natural Area).
Tips from RVers
Select appropriate camping areas: Not all equestrian campgrounds near Comfort accommodate larger RVs. One visitor noted, "I didn't stay there. I was planning on staying there, but it is basically an equestrian state park. You can camp there, but there's not electrical and water hook ups. It's mostly tent camping" (Hill Country State Natural Area).
Consider noise factors: Highway proximity affects some sites. A camper at Kerrville-Schreiner Park advised, "We stay down by the river. The road was real close to the site that we stayed in period over all the camp grounds are nice well maintained and not stacked on top of each other. Went for a walk and ride on the upper side of the park in that area is much quieter and much more comfortable feeling" (Kerrville-Schreiner Park).
Check for dump stations: Not all horse-friendly campgrounds provide full hookups. RVers should verify sanitary facilities before arrival, as many primitive equestrian sites lack these amenities.
