Pedernales Falls State Park offers backcountry camping areas where hikers can access secluded sites via trails ranging from 2 to 3.4 miles from the main camping areas. These primitive campsites provide solitude in the Texas Hill Country at elevations between 800-1,100 feet, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F. Winter camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Water activities at multiple locations: The Guadalupe River provides numerous swimming spots with clear waters. "The river can be a source of a lot of fun and also traffic. Being open for day use as well as for those staying at the park, the area provides a cool retreat to dive into the cool waters of the Guadalupe River," notes a visitor to Guadalupe River RV Park and Campgrounds. For more adventurous campers, Krause Springs offers unique water features: "There's a rope swing for jumping into the water. Fun to watch the kids. The set up is grand."
Hiking with varied terrain: Trails throughout the region offer different difficulty levels with limestone features. "Lots of hiking trails here. Good swimming. The falls are pretty. You can walk upriver from the falls, bouldering for quite a long way. Classic hill country terrain," says Emily M. about Pedernales Falls State Park Campground. The trails range from short nature walks to more challenging routes with elevation changes.
Stargazing in dark sky areas: Several campsites near Dripping Springs provide excellent night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "Small cute hill country setting with great sunset views. Lots of dark skies with stars," mentions a camper about Ranch 3232, which sits in an area with lower light pollution than sites closer to Austin.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campsites in the region offer substantial space between neighbors. "We stayed for a couple of nights at this park. We loved the water falls and the sites are far apart with trees and shrubs surrounding them," reports a visitor to McKinney Falls State Park Campground. This privacy extends to many area campgrounds, with natural barriers between sites.
Community facilities: Some campgrounds provide shared amenities that enhance the camping experience. At Ranch 3232, one camper appreciated the "bath house and community kitchen" while another noted: "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. Regardless of what choice you make, there's a community kitchen with small appliances/dishes and the bathhouse with showers, toilets, and vanities."
Waterfront campsites: Lake Travis offers camping with direct access to water recreation. "The lake is clean, cool and deep! Tons of primitive camping and most sites have a table and a grill...and PRIVACY!" says Jenny R. about Pace Bend Park - Lake Travis. Many sites include shoreline access for fishing, swimming, or boating.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Flash flooding can occur rapidly in this region. "This park has always been a favorite central texas spot to go to. Weve camped with scouts, camped as a family and camped with friends. A camping staple for us. Great river, view. Made me aware of how serious flash flooding is here. Respect weather warnings!" advises Faith S. about Pedernales Falls.
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Book In Advance! This park is very popular and quickly fills up on weekend, if you are planning a trip make sure you book well in advance to ensure you will have a site," recommends Crystal C. about Guadalupe River campground.
Wildlife encounters: Beyond the expected deer and small mammals, some campgrounds have more challenging wildlife visitors. "Beware of cayotes and curious deer," warns Jimmy R. about Pedernales Falls, while other campers mention armadillos and raccoons visiting campsites at night.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly water features: Several parks have swimming areas ideal for children of different ages. "The great part is the swimming. The water was warm, and it was perfect for new swimmers with floaties and advanced swimmers. There's a place where you can jump off the rocks into the water," says Steph C. about McKinney Falls State Park.
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer ranger programs specifically designed for children. "We worked with the park Ranger program and my son was awarded a Ranger Badge," shares Patrick H. from Cranes Mill Park, describing a memorable camping experience with his son.
Site selection for family comfort: When camping with kids, look for sites with specific amenities. "The sites are mostly private and have tent areas as well as pads for campers. You could fit a group of people all one one site with room to spare! Well kept. Bring your hiking boots and swimming suit," suggests Shelly S. about Pedernales Falls.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most state parks near Dripping Springs offer electric and water connections, though not all provide sewer hookups. "Sites are cement with fire pit and picnic table. Every night they have something going on and they send a text each day with activities. They text you when you get a shipment. Sites are nice distance from one another and nice size. Fit our 43' Motorhome with dolly," shares an RVer about Austin Lone Star RV Community.
Road access considerations: Some pet-friendly camping areas near Dripping Springs have limitations for larger rigs. "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," cautions a camper about Krause Springs.
Seasonal demand patterns: Winter camping offers more availability at popular sites. "We spent a week in December. Traveling with a 40' Class A RV. Getting in and out of the park was smooth for the most part just watch some overhanging limbs," notes Dan H. about McKinney Falls.
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