Looking to get away and reconnect with nature? Glamping near Elgin is the perfect choice. The Dyrt lets you enjoy a unique, rustic Elgin experience while glamping. Search nearby glamping or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Listen to Onion Creek flowing over limestone ledges and splashing into pools. Follow trails winding through the Hill Country woods. Explore the remains of an early Texas homestead and a very old rock shelter. All of this lies within Austin’s city limits at McKinney Falls State Park - what are you waiting for?
Think of the park as Austin’s backyard; we’re just 13 miles from the state capitol. Here you can camp, hike, mountain or road bike, geocache, go bouldering, and picnic. You can also fish and swim in Onion Creek.
Onion Creek can flood after rainfall. Beware of the creek’s flow; contact the park for current creek conditions. Read through our swimming safety tips before you visit.
Stay at one of 81 campsites (all with water and electric hookups). Or rent one of our six newly remodeled cabins. We also have a primitive youth camping area, for use by nonprofit-sponsored youth groups
$20 - $24 / night
At Lake Bastrop North Shore Park, visitors can choose from a variety of overnight accommodations, ranging from classic campgrounds to Airstreams to safari tents. Don’t miss out, order Base Camp Deli’s curated picnic bundle right to your campsite! Recreation amenities include watercraft rentals, hike and bike trails, picnic areas and a fishing pier.
Just five miles from downtown, Austin Lone Star provides 154 spacious, tree-shaded sites complete with full hook-ups, and wireless internet. We also have a number of cabin rentals available which feature Queen sized bed in bedroom and full size sofa sleeper to accommodate up to 4 guests. Fully equipped, with all cookware and linens included. No pets allowed in rentals. You can't beat the amenities at Austin Lone Star, take a swim in our seasonal heated pool, or play billiards in our clubhouse. Guests can also pick up a few RV supplies and other necessities at our on-site store and gift shop. Pets are more than welcome at Austin Lone Star -- we provide a fenced-in pet exercise area for Fido to run free. Our non-furry guests can get a work out in our fully-equipped exercise room, while kids can get their energy out on our playground.
$58 / night
Look no further for camping near Austin - Pace Bend Park is popular for camping on the cliffs overlooking Lake Travis, swimming on a beach, boating, and exploring the Hill Country beauty with miles of hike, bike, and equestrian trails. Primitive Camping Primitive campsites with picnic tables, barbecue grills, fire rings, and plenty of trees for shade and privacy are scattered along the cliffs and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The east and north sides of Pace Bend offer more gentle, sloping shorelines with sandy and gravel beaches, providing easy access to the lake for families with young children and people with disabilities. Numerous primitive campsites can be found among the oak and mesquite trees and all are within a short walk to the lake. Camping on the beach is also permitted. Please note that primitive camping permits do not include shower privileges. Waterless toilets are available. Improved Camping Pace Bend offers 20 improved campsites, with water and electrical hook-ups, showers and restrooms. These sites are all located on the east side of the park just above Levi Cove, within easy walking distance to the lake. They feature plenty of shade trees and flat, grassy areas for tent camping. All sites are back-ins only. Reservations are highly recommended. Parking is available on site. A maximum of two vehicles may occupy a site.
$15 - $30 / night
The perfect"home away from home," Oak Forest is located just 10 minutes from downtown Austin, Texas. Although you wouldn’t know it by the serene sounds and vistas! Nearby, Lake Walter Long is perfect for fishing or zipping around in a boat.
$50 - $80 / night
Cedar Breaks Park sits on the south side of Georgetown Lake in the Hill Country of Texas, about 25 miles north of Austin.
Boating is the most popular way to enjoy the lake, and a boat ramp is provided for guests. Fishing is excellent in the area, and the lake contains Black bass, White bass, Hybrid stripers, White crappie, Channel catfish and Flathead catfish, but its most known for its abundance of Smallmouth bass. The San Gabriel River Trail is a 26 mile rugged trail winding through dense juniper forest, hardwood bottomlands and prairie grasslands. The trail extends completely around Georgetown Lake via the dam and is open to hiking and biking. Hunting is available for for small game like dove, waterfowl, rabbit and squirrel, as well as white tail deer. Hunting is by permit only.
Lake Georgetown is a reservoir on the north fork of the San Gabriel River in central Texas. The dam was completed in 1979 to provide flood control and water supply for the nearby community of Georgetown, and now provides countless recreation opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is aptly named for the abundance of cedar in the surrounding forest.
The nearby town of Georgetown offers gas, groceries and more. The historic downtown square district has shops and restaurants, and concerts and events are held on a regular basis. Additionally, Austin is located just 25 miles from the lake, offering countless tourist attractions.
Once a reservation date has begun, customers cannot change a reservation using the online system or through the Call Center. On-site personnel are not able to modify reservations. Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee.
$30 / night
Wilson H. Fox Park attracts a variety of campers looking for a fun-filled escape. In springtime, the campground is a colorful place covered in a blanket of wildflowers. In the hot summer months, there's no place like a lakeside campsite with a swimming beach, fishing dock and two ramps to set sail or paddle out on the lake.
Whether it's sailing, swimming or water skiing, visitors have many options for fun out on the water. Fish for catfish, white bass or crappie. Just beyond the park, archery hunting for feral hogs is allowed year-round.
The campground is on the shores of Granger Lake, with the gently rolling hills of the Texas Blackland Prairie as a backdrop. Granger Lake is fed by the San Gabriel River and Willis Creek, and was formed in 1980 upon completion of the 16,000 foot long dam.
The Pecan Grove Wildlife Area is just east of Wilson H. Fox and sits below the dam. It provides plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, as well as a view above the dam. San Gabriel and Sore Finger Wildlife Areas are also worth a visit.
$26 - $60 / night
Legend
Living Waters on Lake Travis is a lakeside venue for romantic getaways, yoga retreats, weddings, songwriting retreats, family reunions, work retreats and glamping (glamorous camping). You can rent one structure for a personal getaway or rent them all for a group event.
I attended a special event at this venue. There are various whimsical houses, cabins, yurts and tents in which to stay. There is an open lawn for group gatherings, a covered gazebo for outdoor yoga and a boathouse for lakeside activities. In addition there are amenities such as hammocks, lawn chairs, porches and tents in which to relax. The venue offers a variety of personal services such as massage, yoga, a private chef and watercraft rental.
Whether you would like to be active or sedentary, Living Waters on Lake Travis might meet your needs.
Guide
We stayed in one of their air-conditioned glamping cabins. It was very nice and clean and the AC stayed very cold. They have private, lockable, full bathrooms right behind the cabins. The place is very pretty and the staff friendly. We loved tubing and kayaking the San Marcos River! It’s a great getaway!
Guide
We loved everything about Son’s River Ranch! The staff is great, the place was very clean and we had a blast! Our glamping cabin was nice, it was well worth the money to not to have to set up a tent and do all that work. Plus the AC kept us very cold and comfortable at night and the kitchenette had everything we needed to cook and make meals. We rented a cabana for the day too and it was fun to hang out and relax by the river and BBQ. The next day we tubed and kayaked. They have a wristband you can buy for the day that is good for unlimited kayaking and tubing, we did both! The trip took about 2 hours by tube and an hour by kayak. They have shuttles to bring you back up to River Ranch when you are done. I highly recommend this place!
Legend
This state park is a little outside of Austin near the airport. The park stays busy and it’s easy to see why– it’s really nice with waterfalls you can check out in the park and it isn’t far from the airport. We had a great stay here and will definitely check it out again if in the area. Although– watch the branches if you are in a bigger rig– we watched a guy hit one and mess up his roof. Also, if you will be camping in Texas State Parks a bit be sure to get the annual Texas State Parks pass– it will end up saving you a lot of money! Also, we went to a nearby market to buy what we thought was salsa(see pictures)– it definitely wasn’t and it was sooo spicy!!
Legend
I actually would rate this campground 3.5 stars, because it is better than average and getting better every year.
In 2011 a forest fire swept through this park and devastated over 90% of the piney woods. The park is still recovering.
However, something that has never changed about this location is that Bastrop State Park offers multiple camping options and great opportunities for family fun.
The park has car camping, walk-in camping, RV camping and even cabin camping/glamping. One of my favorite activities when visiting this park is to drive the scenic and winding tree lined road between Bastrop State Park and nearby Buescher State Park.
There are recreational activities for kids such as a playground, swimming pool, fishing, geocaching and hiking trails. Many of the facilities underwent a remodel and now offer restrooms with modern sinks, showers and toilet stalls.
There are sections of the park where one can see the devastation cause by the forest fire. It is a humbling experience for both children and adults to see the burnt but recovering forrest. There are also sections of the park where one can still stand under some of the old growth majestic pine trees. The walk-in sites are surrounded by forrest. The RV site has some of the tallest trees still standing. One caveat about the RV site is that you can hear the auto traffic from the nearby highway.
The park office has a small store and sells camping necessities and souvenirs. The town of Bastrop is nearby where you can find supermarkets, stores and restaurants so you're never too far from supplies.
Based on my recent visit to this park, I think that it still offers a variety of camping options, family fun and possibly an eco lesson for all of us.
Ranger
Pace Bend is one of my most favorite places to camp in Texas.
Not far from the old (and new!) Backyard (a great place to see live music in the live oak capital of Texas), Pace Bend is a quick drive away. A perfect spot to pitch a bunch of tents, jump off cliffs, swim and barbeque. Maybe 45 minutes from downtown Austin (without traffic).
I won't lie the cliff diving kinda freaks me out. Be careful is all I'm saying!
There are several primitive campsites throughout the park with picnic tables, grills and toilets. Additionally there are 20 RV hook-up type sites that offer running water, electricity, restrooms and showers.
GuideThis campground is a must see if you live in Texas. In addition to the awesome camp sites, there are two swimming areas that are to die for. Highly recommend!!!
Legend
Lockhart State Park is a small park with simple facilities, but they do have a golf course and some of the best BBQ in Texas nearby.
The park is located a short distance from the town of Lockhart and about 40 minutes from Austin. The park has all the basic amenities like campsites with water, electricity, picnic tables, grills and fire rings. There are a few short trails to explore. For the family there is a swimming pool and little playground. Perhaps one of the unique features of this park is that there is a 9 hole golf course within the park.
Some of the facilities feel a bit dated. However, if you're looking for a relaxing time with family friendly activities this park might work for you.
Before or after your stay at Lockhart State Park be sure to pass through the town of Lockhart (nicknamed the BBQ Capitol of Texas) where you can choose between three of the best barbecue restaurants in Texas - Blacks BBQ, Smitty's BBQ and Kreuzs BBQ.
TravelerBeautiful and fun little state park with a 9 hole golf course, a swimming pool and nearby #1 Texas barbeque
Guide
I honestly forget that I'm in Central Texas when I stay here. Lake Georgetown is beautiful, and the cedar groves are amazing as well. Classic state park Campground style amenities.
RangerThis place is incredible! The waterfalls are perfect to cool off in on a hot Texas day. This place has a cool history and it’s fun to look for stuff on the trails. I would go with out kids first.
TravelerThis is one of my top 3 campgrounds in Texas. Most of the spaces are secluded and there are lots of trees and shade. The two swimming areas are amazing and the highlight of the park. I only wish they allowed my dog to swim!
ScoutNice campsites, clean bathrooms, lake access for swimming/boating/paddling. I didn't get a single mosquito bite while camping here! Lots of shade with plenty of tree covering. Hiking Trail nearby (Goodwater Loop). Cleanest lake I've been to in Texas!
Guide
It's a bit ridiculous that you have to pay both a daily entrance fee, plus your nightly site fee at Texas state parks.
The camping itself was ok. A bit confusing trying to find where you needed to go. Boat launch area looks like camping area.
RIght by the lake, good for recreation.
GuideBastrop State Park, even recovering from the 2011 Bastrop complex fire, is a jewel in the state. Wonderful Depression-era buildings and history, hiking, biking, and camping, including very good cabins and facilities for events, reunions, weddings, etc. Connects to Buecher State Park near Smithville. A great stop between Central Texas and the Piney Woods.
GuideBastrop state park is awesome! So cool how this patch of pine trees are in central Texas and can give you the feel of being in the mountains. A lot of the park is still damaged from the fire but seeing the new pine trees grow is very encouraging and beautiful in its own way. There's also a playground which was great for our little ones.
Guide
Only there for one short night but it was delightful to sit in the water of lake Travis and watch the stars on a warm texas summer night. I’m guessing it gets crowded during the day but I had enjoyed my evening there.
GuideThis is such a wonderful state park! Great hiking trails, two swimming holes, well spaced out camping sites with electricity and water. We stayed here because it was close to the airport and had a flight to catch. It was only a 9 min drive. It's about 20 minutes from downtown Austin but still offers a peaceful nature retreat and a wonderful spot to cool down in hot Texas summers.
GuideWe we’re traveling and needed a spot near Austin, Texas and love Lake Bastrop. There’s two Campgrounds one South and one North. The right one for us was South since we didn’t want anything too primitive. Thankfully there is plenty of trees for shade. And the view of Lake Bastrop is phenomenal. We did the lakeshore hike which takes a while since it’s 6 miles. W rented a canoe from the office one day and really enjoyed that.
LegendWe needed a place not too far out of town to test out our setups in prep for summer.
This was easy to get to and we had plenty of space to shake things down.
Loved having great cell service right at our site (AT&T), as we work remotely and needed to get a couple of things done.
Have also hiked here on previous occasions and love the secluded trails and Texas history here!
GuidePace Bend is one of the few reliable parks in Central Texas and near Austin that will always have an available campsite, while all of the other prks require a reservation months in advance. You can even show up late and find a site.
Although, these sites are primitive, so not all of them have picnic tables or grills.
Also, there is great mountain biking trails, cliff jumping and swimming.
Legend
Nice RV park near Georgetown Texas about 20 north of Austin. They are a mile or so off of I 35 which makes this a easy to access. They have ample space and lots of amenities. Nice choice for long term or just passing through. They can handle large and small rigs. Your are close to Hutto and Georgetown which have a great selection of restaurants and shops. It’s also near the Berry Spring Preserve which has great picnic and an interesting history.
LegendGood facilities at this site. The restrooms and showers are first rate. We stayed here just one night. The front office and check in process is excellent. The campsites have water and ample shade. Not much to see in this camp but good as a stopover or local weekend camping. It’s close to Austin Texas about 25 minutes. The have some good moderate hiking trails and some interesting historical sites. The have a children’s playground and a nice swimming pool. The trees here are being replanted and restored. The views are not the greatest and some of the sites are near a highway.
Guide
Well spaced spots. Fairly level pads with table, fire ring, 30/50 amp electrical, water. We didn't see any covered tables, but all usable spots had concrete pads for tables. Like a lot of east-Texas camping areas, LSSP was also devastated by Hurricane Harvey and is still recovering, but don't let that stop you, but instead level-set your expectations. Sites are well dispersed, but some appear to be no longer in use. In July 2020, there were very few folks in the park, partly, I'm sure due to Covid-19 and well, its July in Texas! Typically, and as expected, gnats were really bad at night, but mosquitos were tolerable. Just be prepared and you'll be fine. Great kayaking and very little motorized boat traffic, but likely due to current situation. Trails are numerous, but not well marked. We didn't see a lot of hog damage on the trails, so maybe the staff has been working on that. Good amount of wildlife Equestrian area looked like it was restored and back-in-business. Will be returning. While the Birch Creek and Nails Creek sections are visible across the lake from each other, there is a long drive (15 minutes in a vehicle around the lake) to get between them, so plan your time accordingly.
GuideDecent little park close to Georgetown, TX. Georgetown is full of fun activities and great food. Georgetown is home to “The Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas” and also is an official Purple Heart City. There’s reserved parking all over town for Purple Heart Recipients.
The park is pretty minimum. No playgrounds and rocky shores that aren’t easily accessible. Expect the weekends to be super crowded, especially in the day use area (where the easiest accessible swimming spots are). During the week we had the park to ourselves. Friendly hosts.
*Grab a spot on the outer of the loop if possible.
*Watch out for RATTLESNAKES. We saw 2.
GuideBastrop State Park has excellent facilities including hot showers, indoor sinks and toilets in modern, clean, and well maintained facilities, managed trails, and a pool! It can be a little noisy around the campground, and there is road noise as well from the highway. It's not really a "Nature Experience" but it is easy, clean, and fun. If you are a hardened backpacker you might want to go to a county park, but if you want to introduce your kids or partner to camping, this is the spot.
You can reserve a campsite online, but plan ahead! They sell out. Also, if you are going during the summer months, beware! Texas heat in the summer can be dangerous. Best months are spring and fall.
GuideWe were here 2/8/21 to 2/13/21. We had 2 decent days and then the bad weather began. We golfed 18 one of the days, fun layout, not in the best shape right now but the price was right. With the Texas pass you also get a discount on golf and anything else you buy. Lots of short trails, close to town. Our loop had power and water at the sites. It was pretty quiet due to impending horrible weather.
Small park close to town and be sure to get some BBQ, lots of choices in town!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Elgin, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Elgin, TX is McKinney Falls State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 80 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 31 glamping camping locations near Elgin, TX, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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