Camping spots near Fair Oaks Ranch, Texas feature seasonal low water levels that affect both river activities and trail accessibility. The Texas limestone terrain creates porous soil conditions, meaning many campgrounds implement trail closures after rainfall to prevent erosion. Water conservation measures remain important even at campgrounds with full hookups, as drought conditions can impact facilities.
What to do
River activities during high flow periods: At Guadalupe River State Park, the river provides seasonal swimming opportunities. "One of the first camping trips I had with my son was Guadalupe River State Park. We tent camped and had one of the primitive sites. We had so much fun swimming in the river and hiking. The bluffs above the river are gorgeous. Mid November and swimming was still fun," notes Patrick H.
Cave exploration and guided tours: Cave Without a Name offers $20 cave tours with unique underground formations. "Stayed on a Thursday in November. There were 2 quiet RVs here. Brand spanking new bathrooms with showers. Non-potable water, so bring water to drink and cook with. Pet friendly. And schedule a $20 cave tour!" reports s R.
Wildlife observation and ranger programs: Many campgrounds support night wildlife viewing, particularly of armadillos and deer. "We worked with the park Ranger program and my son was awarded a Ranger Badge," shares a visitor about Guadalupe River State Park. Early morning viewing near river access points often yields the best results.
What campers like
Clean, accessible bathroom facilities: Modern restrooms receive consistent praise at several campgrounds. At Cedar Sage Camping Area, a camper shares, "I cannot express how impressed we were with these restrooms. Seriously cleanest and newest restrooms we've seen at a SP in Texas."
Dog-friendly riverside camping: For campers with pets, Bergheim Campground stands out. "Bring ur dog to swim! I've been coming here for many years and I have to say this is one of the best camp places in the area. It's real camping. They offer restrooms with showers, but it's primarily outdoors. I love it here... You can swim, fish, hike, go kayaking, and your camp spot will have a spot for ur tent and an area to build a fire," writes Anita B.
Adequate spacing between sites: Many Fair Oaks Ranch area campsites provide reasonable privacy. "There are trees and shade and it is along Medina Lake shores. The lake was dried up during our stay, but it was still beautiful views all around," notes a camper at Thousand Trails Medina Lake. Sites with natural separation through vegetation provide better noise buffers during busy periods.
What you should know
Trail closures after rain: Wet conditions frequently cause temporary closures. "Even in winter this park is worth a visit, I imagine it's busy on the weekends. Unfortunately all the trails were closed around 0900 the next morning due to mud/slippery conditions and possible further rainfall," reports a visitor to Cedar Sage Camping Area.
River conditions vary significantly: Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting activities. "When the river is 'working' there are kayak/tube opportunities, unfortunately no way of knowing ahead when you book what you're going to get so plan accordingly and bring lots of water just in case," advises a camper.
Wildlife encounters in campsites: Be prepared for wildlife visitors. "Had some very unafraid raccoons run up to our site. Yelling and tossing rocks near their feet did not deter at all. Had to interrupt our dinner and put our food away to get them to leave us alone," warns a Cedar Sage camper. Secure food containers are essential at most campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Walk-in sites for tent campers: Wagon Ford Walk-In Area provides tent-specific camping with access to natural features. "We stayed for one night during late November 2020, it was very cold and there weren't many people staying in the park, which made it a very quiet place to explore. Our site wasn't too far from the parking area and we didn't have any trouble carrying our supplies back and forth," explains Emily C.
Seasonal firefly viewing: Evening walks offer unique experiences during late spring and early summer. "I highly encourage you to take a walk during the night down to the river, it was like a light show of lightning bugs," shares Alexandra about her stay at Wagon Ford.
Water safety preparation: River depth varies considerably throughout the season. "A great place to take a quick swim and get out of the Texas heat. Be sure to bring your dog! Awesome views and friendly people," reports Carrie J. about Guadalupe River State Park, where sites cost "$15 a night or $90 a week."
Tips from RVers
Construction impacts on access: Highway construction can affect entry to some campgrounds. At Alamo Fiesta RV Resort, a visitor notes, "The highway in front of the campground is under construction, so where it would normally be an easy off easy on, it's a little tricky getting in and out with the bigger rigs, but easy enough once you come in once, just follow the signs."
Non-potable water at some locations: Not all water sources are drinkable. "Sites have 50 and 30 amp electricity but non-potable water so make sure your fresh water tank is full. No dump station on site," warns Mike L. about Cave Without a Name.
Limited cellular connectivity: Prepare for potentially unreliable service. "Not much of AT&T signal but I used car WiFi which still stunk. Just download some Netflix before you arrive!" advises a camper at Cave Without a Name, highlighting the importance of advance planning for connectivity needs.
