Best Campgrounds near Dripping Springs, TX

The Texas Hill Country surrounding Dripping Springs features a diverse range of camping experiences within an hour's drive. Pedernales Falls State Park, located 25 miles west, offers both developed campsites with water and electrical hookups as well as primitive camping areas with cliffside views overlooking the hill country. Pace Bend Park on Lake Travis provides waterfront camping with opportunities for swimming and cliff diving, while private RV parks like Sunset RV Park cater to long-term visitors with full hookups. State parks dominate the public camping landscape, with Blanco State Park and McKinney Falls State Park providing year-round access to riverside camping, hiking trails, and swimming areas.

Reservations are essential for most campgrounds in the region, particularly during spring and fall when temperatures are most comfortable. As one camper noted, "Sites are level, most are shaded with full hooks. There are some low limbs so I advise caution for big rigs." Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, making shade a premium amenity at many sites. The Texas State Parks Pass offers significant value for frequent campers, with discounts on camping fees and free park entry. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the Hill Country, with one reviewer reporting, "We were in shorts the first two days, then it snowed more than the area had seen in 20 years on our final day. Come prepared for anything."

Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the area's campgrounds. According to one visitor at a private campground near Dripping Springs, "We saw deer, wild turkey, longhorns, hummingbirds. The stars at night are breathtaking." Many campsites feature proximity to water, with the Pedernales River, Blanco River, and Lake Travis being popular destinations for swimming, fishing, and paddling. Campground amenities vary widely, from primitive sites with minimal facilities to developed campgrounds with showers, laundry, and Wi-Fi access. The region's camping options serve as convenient basecamps for exploring nearby attractions, including Hamilton Pool, Reimers Ranch, and the wineries and breweries that have made Dripping Springs a popular weekend destination for Austin residents.

Best Camping Sites Near Dripping Springs, Texas (278)

    1. Pedernales Falls State Park Campground

    86 Reviews
    Johnson City, TX
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 868-7304

    $10 - $100 / night

    "This was some of the best TEXAS camping we've done. We found a really nice spot that was on the cliffside and had an incredible view of the hill country. It was isolated enough from other campsites."

    "This park, for many people in the hill country of Texas, is the quintessential park to visit."

    2. McKinney Falls State Park Campground

    81 Reviews
    Sunset Valley, TX
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (512) 243-1643

    $20 - $86 / night

    "This state park is a little outside of Austin near the airport."

    "This park is a great option for nature camping very close to all the attractions of Austin."

    3. Pace Bend Park - Lake Travis

    33 Reviews
    Lago Vista, TX
    19 miles
    Website

    $15 - $30 / night

    "Pace Bend is one of my most favorite places to camp in Texas.

    Not far from the old (and new!)"

    "Pace Bend Park is conveniently located a short distance from the city of Austin and on the shores of Lake Travis. The park is managed by the Travis County Parks Department."

    4. Austin Lone Star RV Community

    19 Reviews
    Sunset Valley, TX
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (512) 444-6322

    $58 - $80 / night

    "Very easy access to downtown Austin, about a 15 minute drive.

    Full hookups. Extremely clean, well maintained and updated. Most spots are pull through, with a few back in spots on one side."

    "This is the third campground we’ve stayed at, and it’s conveniently located just 15 minutes from the city, with grocery stores and other essential shops nearby."

    5. Blanco State Park Campground

    27 Reviews
    Blanco, TX
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 833-4333

    $20 - $30 / night

    "In our trip around Texas, this was one of our favorite state parks.  Easy to book online and very inexpensive with our Texas State Parks pass.  "

    "We selected the park to use as a base for exploring the Texas hill country. In addition to that we had a great time exploring Blanco and the park."

    6. Ranch 3232

    6 Reviews
    Johnson City, TX
    11 miles
    Website

    $20 - $145 / night

    "Clean campground, close to country and city."

    "You have the choice of camping at a tent site, park your RV, to glamp in a yurt or cabin, or even walk out to a more secluded “TentRR” site."

    7. Cranes Mill Park

    26 Reviews
    Canyon Lake, TX
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 964-3341

    $26 - $35 / night

    "A great small park on beautiful Canyon Lake in legendary Texas Hill Country.

    The park is perfectly situated to explore the Hill Country."

    "Suasana di Canyon Lake, Texas pasti akan membuat Anda merasa seperti di rumah sendiri. Fasilitasnya lengkap dan bersih. Aurealisa"

    8. Krause Springs

    17 Reviews
    Spicewood, TX
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (401) 236-7554

    "Historic Texas camping& swimming site nestled in Spicewood, 30 miles from Austin. Ehall pass"

    "I happily drive over three hours to camp here... Dogs are not allowed, but service dogs are. Just call them in advance and let them know. It is CASH ONLY. Also, be careful how far you venture."

    9. Pecan Grove RV Park

    12 Reviews
    Austin, TX
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (512) 472-1067

    $80 / night

    "This is a cool urban RV park in the heart of Austin Texas. The park is located along Barton Springs road in the coolest part of town. It’s next to a brewery, food trucks, and great pubs."

    "It’s located in the middle of an urban oasis. Within walking distance to Zilker Park, Barton Springs, So. congress and downtown. Perfect place to stay and help keep Austin WEIRD"

    10. Arkansas Bend

    7 Reviews
    Buffalo Gap, TX
    17 miles
    Website

    $20 - $30 / night

    "The lake is pretty decent, there are a few small trails around the area, and you are close to a small town. Biggest issue? 30 bucks a night, plus 5 dollars per person for a day use fee."

    "We have a pull behind. We were very surprised at how level our gravel campsite was. It made setup a breeze. The loop makes backing into your spot easy. The wifi is decent."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 278 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Dripping Springs, TX

1177 Reviews of 278 Dripping Springs Campgrounds



Guide to Dripping Springs

Camping near Dripping Springs, Texas, offers a fantastic escape into nature with plenty of options for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakes to scenic trails, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the well-maintained trails at Inks Lake State Park Campground. One visitor noted, "The hiking trails are very well maintained, and there’s plenty of variety in difficulty level/length."
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Pedernales Falls State Park Campground is a great spot. A reviewer mentioned, "The campground is okay. Get a site that has a water view. The fishing was great."
  • Swimming: Cool off at Guadalupe River RV Park and Campgrounds. One camper shared, "The water was running at a perfect flow for kayaking and swimming as well as lounging in the rapids."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at McKinney Falls State Park Campground said, "Well maintained campsites clearly marked with restroom and hot showers close by."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the spaciousness of the campsites. A reviewer at Palmetto State Park Campground mentioned, "The tent sites are very nice, close to the river & oxbow lake."
  • Wildlife: Nature lovers will appreciate the wildlife. One camper at Colorado Bend State Park Campground noted, "Saw some deer and hogs while out hiking on this property."

What you should know:

  • Reservations Required: Many parks require reservations, especially on weekends. A visitor at Moss Lake Area — Enchanted Rock State Natural Area advised, "You need reservations for timed entry and weekends are way busier than weekdays."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Pace Bend Park - Lake Travis, have limited amenities. A camper mentioned, "Campsite amenities could be better."
  • Cell Service: Be prepared for weak cell service in many areas. A reviewer at Guadalupe River RV Park and Campgrounds noted, "Cell service was quite weak to nonexistent unless you were out hiking and reached a high spot."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. A parent at San Antonio KOA said, "Great walking trail for pets," which can be fun for the whole family.
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to plan activities that everyone can enjoy. A family at Bastrop State Park Campground enjoyed hiking and noted, "Nice campground. Clean restrooms, and good hiking trails."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. A camper at Inks Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The campgrounds are right on the water," making it easy to enjoy a picnic by the lake.

Tips from RVers:

Camping near Dripping Springs, Texas, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Dripping Springs, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, Dripping Springs, TX offers a wide range of camping options, with 278 campgrounds and RV parks near Dripping Springs, TX and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Dripping Springs, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Dripping Springs, TX is Pedernales Falls State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 86 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Dripping Springs, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Dripping Springs, TX.

What parks are near Dripping Springs, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 parks near Dripping Springs, TX that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.