Camping near Eldorado, Texas offers travelers a mix of private and military-affiliated options in this West Texas region, where temperatures regularly exceed 100°F in summer months. The area sits in the Edwards Plateau ecological region with semi-arid terrain that transitions between the Chihuahuan Desert and Hill Country landscapes. Winter nights can drop below freezing, requiring proper gear for overnight stays.
What to do
Lake activities at Goodfellow AFB Recreation Area: Located on Lake Nasworthy, this facility provides direct water access for fishing and boating. "During the summer months they rent boats and have a little store on site," notes Dennis S. The recreation area includes covered picnic areas and ample open space along the shoreline.
Hiking with elevation: Red Arroyo Campground features hiking trails with scenic overlooks. "Great views. Bison, longhorn and tons of deer," reports Bruce, who stayed during a cold snap. The wildlife viewing opportunities make this a worthwhile destination for nature photographers.
Airport viewing: For aviation enthusiasts, San Angelo KOA sits near a municipal airport. "There is a municipal airport close by but doesn't seem to be a lot of planes passing over," mentions George B. This provides occasional plane spotting without significant noise disruption.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Goodfellow AFB Recreation Area receives consistent praise for upkeep. "Really well maintained famcamp. Even the full timers there kept their sites neat and tidy unlike some we've been to," writes Chris W., highlighting the cleanliness standards maintained at the military recreation site.
Hot shower pressure: Multiple reviews specifically mention shower quality as a standout feature. Wendie K. from Goodfellow AFB Recreation Area states, "Hot showers with great pressure! Definitely a plus!" This practical amenity ranks high for travelers after long days exploring.
Pet amenities: Dog-friendly accommodations matter to many travelers seeking yurt camping near Eldorado, Texas. George B. mentions the dedicated "dog park" at San Angelo KOA, allowing pets to exercise safely in a designated area.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: For military-affiliated camping at Goodfellow AFB, proper documentation is essential. "Reservations and military required. Make sure to confirm location when you reserve. It's NOT located on base. It's several miles away from base," cautions Wendie K.
Limited signage: Red Arroyo Campground has navigation challenges. "Signs directing you to the campsites were minimal (ex: instead of 'red arroyo campsites 1-11' it said 'trailer 1-11')," reports Tracie. First-time visitors should prepare for limited directional assistance.
Temperature extremes: Summer heat impacts comfort significantly. Chris W. warns about Goodfellow AFB's partial hookup sites: "The water and electric sites had no shade whatsoever. And the full hookups are first come first serve. So beware if you need or want to visit in the summer. I mean hades."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: When camping with children, look for sites with multiple activity choices. Richard from Goodfellow AFB Recreation Area recommends: "Great covered picnic area. Plenty of options with the recreation center, pool, and playground. Lots of open space right on the lake."
Swimming access: During hot months, pool access provides essential relief for families. Troy L. notes about Stadium RV Park: "It was super hot when we arrived and were pleased to find the crystal clear pool to cool off in."
Site spacing considerations: Families needing room to spread out should note proximity issues at some locations. George B. observes at San Angelo KOA: "Parking is level raked gravel but a little close together." This could impact privacy between neighboring campsites.
Tips from RVers
Unexpected layouts: Stadium RV Park differs from traditional campgrounds. Jeff T. shares this important detail: "The RV Park isn't a park so much as it is just part of a neighborhood. The park manager met us on a street corner in the neighborhood a few blocks off the main street, and guided us in his truck to two FHU spots in an empty lot between two houses."
Facility accessibility: For those seeking yurt or glamping options near Eldorado, Texas, understand that amenities may require driving. At Goodfellow AFB Recreation Area, Chris W. notes, "No exchange or commissary facilities are close and the base exchange is closed for renovations."
Pull-through availability: Dennis S. advises about Goodfellow AFB Recreation Area: "Pull through sites are first come, first served with no reservations. You can reserve some back ins." This distinction matters for larger rigs requiring easier access options.
