Cabin accommodations near Gonzales, Texas range from historic Civilian Conservation Corps structures to modern glamping options with air conditioning. The area sits at approximately 375 feet above sea level with a subtropical climate and average summer temperatures in the 90s. Most camping cabins near Gonzales provide access to the San Marcos River and nearby lakes for water recreation opportunities.
What to do
River tubing and kayaking: Son's River Ranch offers both activities with convenient shuttle service. According to a visitor, "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."
Trail exploration: Palmetto State Park features several easy hiking paths through unique terrain. One camper noted, "There is a nice hike and bike trail which runs along the bank of the river which is flat and easy to walk or bike. There are some amazing sights and sounds while walking through the forest - from birds to insects to small mammals to plants."
Swimming options: Lake Bastrop North Shore Park provides designated swimming areas and fishing piers. A visitor commented, "There is a community space in the center of the park which has picnic tables, a fishing pier, open water access and an area that is roped off for swimming."
What campers like
Unique vegetation: Palmetto State Park Campground draws visitors with its distinctive subtropical plant life. One camper shared, "This is probably my favorite park so far. The beautiful palmettos and vegetation, swamp-like areas and sounds make you feel like you're in Jurassic Park."
Wildlife viewing: Nighttime offers opportunities to hear local wildlife at several parks. A visitor to Bastrop State Park mentioned, "Quiet campground- no road noise. A distant train whistle from time to time. Coyotes howled every night."
Comfort amenities: Son's Blue River Camp provides comfort-focused accommodations. As one visitor reported, "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."
What you should know
Water quality varies: Some locations have sulfur-smelling water. A camper at Bastrop State Park Campground noted, "Water had a sulfur smell. The toilet/shower facility was VERY clean."
Reservation timing: Parks with cabins book up quickly, especially during summer. The primitive camping areas tend to have more availability. A visitor explained, "We have an annual Easter weekend camping trip every year and tend to reserve our campsites late as most parks an hour from Austin are always booked."
Space considerations: Site dimensions can be tight in some locations. One visitor to Leisure Resort observed, "Campers are squished very close together. You can barely open your awning. Also the sewer for their camp is right when you step out."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple activities: McKinney Falls State Park Campground offers diverse recreation options. A family camper shared, "This is such a wonderful state park! Great hiking trails, two swimming holes, well spaced out camping sites with electricity and water."
Safety awareness: Water safety requires attention at certain locations. One experienced visitor advised, "Please be careful swimming. If you can't swim, please refrain or wear a life jacket. There have been several drownings here."
Playground access: Some locations include play equipment for children. A camper mentioned, "We brought our 7 year old daughter and she really enjoyed playing at the playground. Our site was conveniently located in front of the playground and next to the shower/bathroom/laundry facility."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Buescher State Park Campground offers concrete pads but has some awkward layouts. A visitor noted, "The pads for your trailer are made of concrete. The whole park is clean and well maintained."
Awning space: Trees can limit the ability to deploy RV awnings. One visitor explained, "Shady campsites are narrow, fairly level asphalt pads with trees near the edges causing creative parking for those with slide-outs. We were unable to deploy our awning due to the number of close trees."
Assistance available: Gone Fishin' RV Park provides help with parking. A guest observed, "The management is great, friendly helpful and someone one looks forward to talk to. The campsite is really nice, the picnic table is brand new."
