Dispersed camping near Dripping Springs, Texas provides primitive outdoor experiences in the Texas Hill Country landscape. The dispersed sites surrounding Lake Georgetown sit at approximately 800 feet above sea level with terrain characterized by limestone outcroppings and juniper woodlands. Winter temperatures average 40-65°F while summer months regularly exceed 95°F with high humidity, affecting tent camping conditions particularly during thunderstorms.
What to do
Trail exploration: The primitive camping areas connect to multiple hiking routes beyond the main San Gabriel River Trail. "Many people stay at this site while hiking the San Gabriel River Trail. The trail circles Lake Georgetown and is 26.2 miles. It passes through forests, grasslands, over some small hills and across a few tributaries," notes Troy W. about Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites.
Water activities: Lake Georgetown offers swimming and paddling opportunities directly from some camping locations. One camper at Walnut Springs Primitive Campground observed "a group of people who canoed in" during their stay, demonstrating water access possibilities at certain sites.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings provide opportunities to spot white-tailed deer, armadillos, and various bird species. The varied terrain creates diverse habitats supporting local wildlife across the camping zones.
What campers like
Accessibility options: Some sites offer multiple access routes. As Guillermo L. explains about Walnut Springs: "Can be biked in from camp Tejas four miles away or can hiking from Russell Park 2 mi away." This provides flexibility for different transportation preferences.
Scenic water views: Lakeside camping spots create memorable experiences. Alexandra from San Gabriel River Trail shares, "We ended up not following our AllTrails after a fork in the road heading towards the campsite, and were pretty pooped so decided to camp there off Sawyer Campsite Rd... water and views were beautiful."
Solitude potential: Weekday visits often provide significantly quieter experiences. "During the weekdays you may not see a single person," notes Troy W., highlighting the opportunity for solitude on less busy days.
What you should know
Supply requirements: These sites demand comprehensive preparation. "No amenities; be prepared to dig cat hole, if drinking lake water be prepared to filter and sterilize," explains Guillermo L., emphasizing the true primitive nature of these camping areas.
Seasonal awareness: Summer conditions create specific challenges for hikers accessing these sites. Troy W. advises, "In the summer be aware that the combination of the temperature and the exposure can make this trail uncomfortable to hike. Take precautions, drink lots of water and stay in the shade all that you can."
Campsite selection: Established sites exist alongside more flexible zones. "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 one camper, highlighting the flexibility available to visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Storm preparation: Weather changes can affect camping comfort significantly. Guillermo L. reports: "Enjoyed our stay during a thunderstorm under the big trees," showing how larger trees can provide important shelter during inclement weather.
Weekend planning: Scout troops frequently use these areas for skills development. One reviewer notes: "On weekends you may encounter scout troops practicing backpacking," suggesting families might coordinate their visits with these groups or plan around them depending on preference.
Car notifications: Leaving information about your camping plans helps park staff. "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 regular visitor to these dispersed sites.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: All primitive sites require non-vehicle access methods. The campgrounds are "only accessible by hiking or by a boat," making them unsuitable for RV camping but potential destinations for RV travelers using nearby developed campgrounds as base camps.
Alternative options: RV campers should utilize the developed campgrounds at Cedar Breaks or Jim Hogg as base camps, then day hike to experience the primitive areas around Lake Georgetown.
