Pedernales Falls State Park offers equestrian facilities with access points to multiple trails throughout the Texas Hill Country terrain. Located approximately 1,000 feet above sea level, the park sits along the Pedernales River where limestone formations create natural crossings and watering points for horses. Trail conditions vary seasonally with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and occasional flash flooding in spring months changing accessibility.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Pedernales Falls State Park Campground, visitors can fish along the river banks. "Pedernales Falls is my favorite state park to visit in my area. It has fishing and swimming spots, and of course camping grounds," notes Caleb F.
Mountain biking trails: Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area features a 10-mile trail system popular with cyclists. "There are a few miles of hike and bike trails, but I HIGHLY suggest coming out here during Bluebonnet season. It is Absolutely beautiful!!!" says Jennifer J.
Kayaking access points: Water enthusiasts can launch from several designated areas. "You can put in here and travel down and take out elsewhere. The lower Colorado River Authority has plenty of places along the Colorado to facilitate this," explains Kyle G. about Shaffer Bend Recreation Area.
Horse trail rides: For equestrians seeking horse campgrounds near Dripping Springs, Texas, the interconnected trail systems offer routes of varying difficulty. "The area has beautiful setting in the Texas Hill Country right off of Lake Travis. At the gate entrance you have wonderful landscape views," mentions Erik F.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Krause Springs provides ample room between sites. "We loved it. It was our first time EVER tent camping on our own, and we really enjoyed our time at Krause Springs. There were tons of camp spots, but it didn't feel crowded at all," shares Rachel W.
Swimming access: Natural water features make cooling off easy during hot months. "The swimming is great, there plenty of spots to fish, and it isn't very hard to get to at all," says Sam D. about Arkansas Bend.
Wildlife viewing: Arkansas Bend provides opportunities to observe local fauna. "We have enjoyed the hiking trails down by the water and the playground for our kids," notes Lauren Z.
Hill Country sunrises: Many campsites offer early morning vistas. "The trees are great to set up a hammock, which we did, which gave you an awesome view of the water and the sunrise in the mornings," explains Steve L. at Shaffer Bend Recreation Area.
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels change throughout the year, affecting access. "I imagine now that the water level is up it is lot more popular destination," Jennifer J. explains about Grelle.
Primitive facilities: Some equestrian campgrounds near Dripping Springs offer minimal amenities. "There are no showers or bath houses. There are Porta-Johns located throughout the campground. Texas in summer can be unforgiving," warns Kyle G.
Flash flood warnings: Take weather alerts seriously at Shaffer Bend Recreation Area. "Great stay. The site we had was walking distance to the sandy beach of lake Travis. Great fishing and the sand carrier up so it's a soft bedding for the evening," says Steve L.
Sticker burrs: Plants with prickly seeds can be problematic. "The only negative items I can mention are the various amounts of stickers everywhere we got plenty on our ankles and our hands," notes Steve L.
Tips for camping with families
Bring water shoes: Rocky terrain requires appropriate footwear. "Pay to enter and for camping sites. You can backpack in to some of the primitive sites or stay in the HUGE camping spots. Bring your hiking boots and swimming suit," advises Shelly S.
Choose shaded sites: Summer heat requires planning for comfort. "Lots of tree cover to help combat the sun. There is a table, a fire ring, and a grill at each site," notes Steve L.
Visit during wildflower season: Spring brings spectacular blooms to Pace Bend Park. "Gorgeousness. Great camping spots, views and hiking," shares Kristin M.
Consider noise levels: Some campsites experience more activity than others. "Sites 1-12 you are right next to the boat ramp where people will be loading/unloading at all hours of the night," cautions Shainna M. about Muleshoe Bend.
Tips for RVers
Check tree clearance: Low-hanging branches can damage taller vehicles. "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," advises Brandi W.
Select level sites: San Marcos River Retreat offers easy setup areas. "This campground is beautiful. There's a river right next to it for fishing, I stayed during the week and I was the only one camping. I car camp and all of the camping spots have water and electrical outlets," notes a camper.
Research hook-up availability: Utilities vary widely between parks. "The campground is wonderful. Very spread out and wooded for privacy between the campsites. Hook ups for both water and electricity, if needed," shares Kaitlyn M.
Allow extra turning space: Campsite access requires planning. "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," says Lauren Z. about Arkansas Bend.
Ranger
