Primitive camping near Driftwood, Texas centers around the Lake Georgetown area, approximately 45 miles from Driftwood's town center. The San Gabriel River Trail system offers rustic camping opportunities with minimal facilities across designated camping zones. These sites feature limestone terrain characteristic of the Texas Hill Country, with elevations ranging from 791 to 908 feet. The lake's 27 miles of shoreline creates numerous potential camping spots accessible primarily by foot.
What to do
Shoreline exploration: Campers at Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites can access the lake for swimming and wildlife viewing. According to one visitor: "Water and views were beautiful, and it was a nice place to rest after the 6 miles in. Rain started pretty heavily (and being close to the water probably didn't help with humidity inside the tent)."
Multi-day hiking: The San Gabriel River Trail offers a full 26.2-mile loop option for backpackers seeking rustic camping near Driftwood, Texas. "The trail passes through forests, grasslands, over some small hills and across a few tributaries," notes one hiker who completed the circuit.
Canoe camping: The Walnut Springs site can be accessed via watercraft. As one camper observed: "There was a backpacking group, a group of people who canoed in, and ourselves. Large open area; for fire pits for lamp hangers for picnic tables trees closer the trail and grass sea areas closer to the water."
What campers like
Storm shelter trees: Walnut Springs Primitive Campground provides substantial tree cover compared to other sites in the area. One visitor noted: "Enjoyed our stay during a thunderstorm under the big trees."
Multiple access points: For those seeking off-grid camping near Driftwood, the trail's various entry points offer flexibility. "Can be biked in from camp Tejas four miles away or can hiking from Russell Park 2 mi away," mentions a Walnut Springs camper.
Varied camping zones: Beyond designated sites, the trail offers flexibility for choosing where to set up. "There are a few areas with tent pads or clear areas where you may camp. But there are also zones where you may simply camp wherever you can setup a tent or hammock," explains a San Gabriel River Trail user.
What you should know
Limited shade coverage: During summer months, the trail's exposure becomes significant. "I'd say that 40% of the trail has some tree coverage, but 60% is exposed," notes a hiker on the San Gabriel River Trail.
Backcountry water considerations: All sites require water planning. "Be prepared to dig cat hole, if drinking lake water be prepared to filter and sterilize," advises a Walnut Springs Primitive Campground camper.
Weekday solitude vs weekend traffic: Traffic patterns vary significantly by day of week. "On weekends you may encounter scout troops practicing backpacking. During the weekdays you may not see a single person," reports a regular visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection priority: For family wilderness camping near Driftwood, Texas, some areas provide easier access than others. "This is possibly the easiest campgrounds on the good water trail to get to which may result in there being more people at this site than others," mentions a visitor about Walnut Springs.
Trail difficulty assessment: When hiking with children, consider terrain challenges. "The home back in the rain was fine. A couple slippery spots but very doable," notes a Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites visitor who hiked during wet conditions.
Pet considerations: Dogs can join families on these trails but require management. "Dogs are allowed on the trail, but it is nice to keep them on lease," advises a regular hiker, noting the potential for encountering other groups.
Tips from RVers
Trailhead parking limitations: RVs must remain at trailhead parking areas only. "Upon entering one of the access points, park your car for free near the trailhead. It is good to advise one of the park attendants that you will be hiking or place a note inside your car that you are hiking," recommends a frequent visitor.
No hookup options: This area offers exclusively tent camping with no RV accommodations at the sites themselves. "There are no facilities or amenities are these camp areas. Pack in some water and bring a water filter to obtain more," notes a trail camper.
Car notification system: For security during overnight stays, communication with park staff is recommended. "It is good to advise one of the park administrators that you will be hiking or place a note inside your car that you are hiking," suggests a trail user.
