Camping options near Copperas Cove, Texas extend beyond traditional RV resorts into the surrounding Texas Hill Country. The area sits at approximately 1,100 feet above sea level, offering campers moderate elevation with temperatures ranging from winter lows in the 30s to summer highs regularly exceeding 95°F. Water access varies seasonally at many sites, with lake levels fluctuating significantly during drought periods.
What to do
Hiking trails: Lake Travis area offers multiple trail systems for day hiking. At Grelle Recreation Area, visitors appreciate the diverse terrain. "There are a lot of trails, running up and down the hills. Great scenery and there's always wildlife around; wild hogs, porcupines, scunks, snakes, etc.," notes Jennifer J.
Mountain biking: Muleshoe Bend features a trail system popular among cyclists. The park provides "10 miles of hiking/biking trails that are mostly under tree cover," according to Tim W., making it more comfortable even during warmer months.
Water activities: Natural springs swimming creates unique experiences beyond standard lake swimming. Amy H. describes her experience at Krause Springs: "As you walk into the lake (walk fast if you don't want to get bitten) you will find pockets of cooler water spouting up. It's kinda like stepping into a refrigerator but underwater."
What campers like
Equestrian amenities: Horse-friendly facilities are available at several campgrounds near Copperas Cove, Texas. Shaffer Bend Recreation Area provides facilities specifically designed for riders. Kyle G. notes that "the campsite is good for equestrians. If you're a kayaker you can put in here and travel down and take out elsewhere."
Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings are common throughout the region's parks. At Arkansas Bend, the recently renovated campground provides "RV and tents sites on very well manicured gravel pads" according to Jacob C., with wildlife viewing opportunities along several miles of hiking trails.
Quiet weekday camping: Midweek solitude can be found at most campgrounds outside peak seasons. Whitney L. recommends Muleshoe Bend for this experience: "If you're able camp here in the middle of the week for almost an interrupted solitude. Because there isn't much to do out there you may well be the only person."
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Lake access varies throughout the year in central Texas. Taylor from Grelle Recreation Area notes: "The drought caused the lake to be pretty dried up so our water front view didn't have much water! That didn't take away from how beautiful the view was from spot 11!"
Limited shower facilities: Bathroom amenities differ between parks. Rich S. cautions about Arkansas Bend: "Biggest issue? 30 bucks a night, plus 5 dollars per person for a day use fee. That works out to 40 bucks a day for two people. Steep. Why on earth they have campers paying the daily use fee is ridiculous."
Tree hazards: Low-hanging branches can damage taller RVs at some sites. Brandi W. warns about Krause Springs: "My only warning is low hanging trees everywhere. I couldn't imagine trying to navigate the campground in a 5th wheel or class A. You could do some rooftop damage."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Kid-friendly facilities at several campgrounds provide entertainment options. Lauren Z. appreciates Live Oak Ridge: "We have enjoyed the hiking trails down by the water and the playground for our kids."
Swimming safety: Water access requires supervision due to natural features. At Krause Springs, Faith S. cautions: "The ladder down is super wonky and the beach area extremely slippery... definitely swim at your own risk."
Wildlife education opportunities: Teaching moments about local ecosystems abound. Cheryl D. at Live Oak Ridge notes there are "nature trails across the main road and access to Belton and their small but awesome riverwalk area, historic Salado, Still Hollow Lake, the Belton dam (we could see the mural from both sites), Chalk Ridge Waterfalls and Temple, TX within a few minutes."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Look for campgrounds with prepared pads to minimize setup time. Lauren Z. shares about Arkansas Bend: "We were very surprised at how level our gravel campsite was. It made setup a breeze. The loop makes backing into your spot easy."
Generator-free zones: Be considerate with power equipment. Amy H. warns that at Grelle "Personally my camping experience was ruined by the generator a couple spots down - constantly on and did not take a break - so it kinda ruined the beauty of the outdoor experience for me."
Spacious sites: Some horse campgrounds near Copperas Cove provide extra room. Cheryl D. appreciates Live Oak Ridge's "large sites with ample vehicle parking that offer substantial distance from the neighboring sites give room to bring multiple vehicles or a boat along with the RV."
