Lake Georgetown spans 1,297 acres with limestone shorelines and cedar-juniper woodlands. The lake maintains water temperatures between 75-85°F during summer months, providing comfortable swimming conditions. Camping options range from primitive sites to developed campgrounds with multiple access points around the 26-mile shoreline.
What to do
Hiking the Good Water Loop: The 26.2-mile trail circles Lake Georgetown through forests, grasslands, over small hills and across tributaries. Approximately 40% of the trail has tree coverage while 60% remains exposed. "During the weekdays you may not see a single person. Dogs are allowed on the trail, but it is nice to keep them on lease," notes a visitor at Russell Park.
Swimming and cliff jumping: Lake Georgetown offers multiple swimming areas with varying access difficulty. "Nice 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. Cleanest lake I've been to in Texas!" reports a camper at Cedar Breaks Park.
Mountain biking and training hikes: The trails accommodate various activities beyond casual hiking. A winter visitor at Pace Bend Park reported, "Stayed here on Monday, December 21 (winter solstice) 2020. There were only four other campsites taken. It was very quiet. We went mountain biking in shorts the first day and a backpack training hike the next."
What campers like
Covered picnic shelters: Cedar Breaks campsites feature sturdy shelters. "The coverings over the tables are thick wood and very large on a concrete pad. Grill with firepit and grill grates on top," notes a camper. Another mentions, "They have very nice shelters with concrete foundations at each site."
Private lake access: Many campsites offer direct water access. "We opted for spot 58 which is on a small bluff overlooking the lake. We had a trail from our spot to the lake which we took advantage of," shares a Cedar Breaks Park visitor. At Pace Bend Park, "The campsites along the cliffs are beautiful at night."
Yurt camping options near Georgetown Lake: For those seeking alternative accommodations, yurt camping near Georgetown Lake provides sturdy shelter with canvas walls. The Northwest Austin/Leander KOA offers yurt rentals with "clean restrooms and awesome staff!" according to recent visitors. These yurt structures provide a middle ground between tent camping and cabin rentals.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Location within campgrounds significantly affects experience. "This park is pretty large and your experience here will vary depending on where you setup camp," notes one camper. Another advises, "The sites along the inside are scary unlevel! Some of the big rigs were backed in and jacked up 4 feet or so in front. Saw a lady break her ankle stepping out of her camper."
Wildlife awareness: Encounters with local wildlife require caution. "Watch out for RATTLESNAKES. We saw 2," warns a McKinney Falls State Park visitor. Visitors might also see deer, raccoons, and armadillos throughout the area.
Water conditions vary seasonally: Lake levels affect fishing and water access. "The lake has been low so fishing hasn't been good," reports one camper. Water activities are best planned during late spring and summer months when levels are typically higher.
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming spots: Look for designated swimming areas with gradual entry points. "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," shares a visitor at McKinney Falls.
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Some locations offer more family amenities than others. At Berry Springs RV Park, a visitor notes it's "not far stores when needed. Was not a busy location. Very calm and laid back." Another family-friendly option includes "Lots and lots and lots of fields, walking trails. Perfect for dogs who like to run."
Safety considerations: Water depth varies significantly. "Please be careful swimming. If you can't swim, please refrain or wear a life jacket. There have been several drownings here," cautions a McKinney Falls visitor. Always supervise children near water.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Prepare for potentially uneven sites. "Be prepared to level your camper! I suggest odd numbers 19-35 and even numbers 36-42 as the most level sites with the best lake views," advises an RV camper.
Utility connections: Water and electric hookups vary by location. "We have an access pass which gives us half off each night - $13 per night. Can't beat that deal for 50/30 and water. No sewer hookups so we use our Honey Wagon or we call affectionally 'Poopsie' that we take to Cedar Breaks dump site," shares an RV owner.
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging entry roads. "Getting in and out of the park was smooth for the most part just watch some overhanging limbs," notes a camper with a 40-foot Class A RV at McKinney Falls State Park.
