Granger Lake camping offers water recreation opportunities in central Texas approximately 40 miles northeast of Austin. The reservoir spans about 4,400 acres with several Corps of Engineers campgrounds situated along its 40 miles of shoreline. Summer temperatures regularly reach above 90°F from June through September, making spring and fall popular camping seasons when temperatures moderate to 70-85°F during the day.
What to do
Fishing for crappie: Willis Creek Park provides excellent fishing access with a boat ramp suitable for various watercraft. "You you wonder what this lake is best for fishing it's crappie," notes one camper at Wilson H Fox.
Swimming at designated beaches: Several campgrounds maintain swimming areas where campers can cool off during hot Texas days. A visitor to Wilson H Fox mentioned, "This campsite is nice because it has a swimming area as well as a ton of good fishing spots. Good facilities and camping spots."
Wildlife observation: The park's natural setting attracts various wildlife species. "We come here every year. Quite, calm. Fishing, swimming, animal watching it has it all," according to an Elizabeth M. who camps at Wilson H Fox.
Hiking the Goodwater Loop: Access the 26-mile trail that circles Lake Georgetown from Cedar Breaks Park. "The park has access to the 26 mile Goodwater loop hiking and mountain biking trail that goes around the entire lake. The trail is very rugged for bikes," reports a camper.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campsites at Taylor Park offer good separation between neighbors. "I love that your neighbors are not backed right up to you," mentions one visitor named Deb. This sentiment is echoed across multiple campgrounds.
Covered picnic areas: Most sites feature sturdy shade structures that provide relief from the Texas sun. "Each campsite has a shade structure with picnic table, grill and fire pit. There are also has a playground. We were rent camping, but there many RV campers," notes Christine W. from Taylor Park.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful setting compared to busier lakes. A visitor to Jim Hogg Park shared: "I have stayed at this campground several times. The campground is well-maintained with spacious sites. Many of the sites are wooded. Each site has a shelter with a concrete base."
Lake views: Several campgrounds feature sites with direct views of the water. "You can find sites here that overlook the water, and have some paths down to the shore (some paths are sketchy though)," reports Joseph C. who stayed at Wilson H Fox.
What you should know
Bathroom maintenance issues: Multiple campgrounds have reported intermittent problems with facilities. "Bathrooms seem iffy. One had intermittent water issues, not flushing. Automatic timed lights can be a pain. Especially if natural light is limited," notes one Wilson H Fox visitor.
Limited shade at some sites: While many areas have tree cover, certain campgrounds have more exposed sites. "Lots of spots on the lake. They do have gazebos at each spot. Campground is very clean. Spent a day by the water but our spot didn't have shade so we moved inland under the trees and it was much more comfortable," reports Ryan G. from Berry Springs Park & Preserve.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Cedar Breaks Park, a visitor warned: "The sites along the outside of the loop have lake views and are level. 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."
Mosquitoes can be problematic: Depending on season and rainfall, insect activity varies. "We arrived late Friday evening after hours. The gates are still open but overwhelming with skeeters everywhere," notes a camper at Willis Creek Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "Great playground for kids. Covered picnic tables. We used our access card and only had to pay $13 per night," shares Mary S. from Taylor Park.
Swimming beaches for children: Designated swimming areas provide safer water access for families. "This is a very nice day use area and boat launch. This is a great place to bring the children for a picnic and a swim at the swimming beach," notes Arvis C. who visited Friendship Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can enjoy spotting local animals in their natural habitat. "There are abundance of deer and rabbits, bird watching is fantastic," continues Arvis C. from Friendship Park.
Historical points of interest: Some areas feature historical markers that can be educational for children. "The Park is located just north of Georgetown Texas about 1 mile off Interstate 35 the main highway between Dallas and Austin. The former ranch has a lot of history dating back to the Texas Pioneer days," explains a visitor to Berry Springs Park & Preserve.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Plan accordingly as not all campgrounds offer sewer connections. "50 amp service and water, no sewer at site. Dump station is easily accessible," notes a visitor to Wilson H Fox.
Site selection for levelness: Choose sites carefully based on your RV size and leveling capabilities. "We had a quaint campsite with a Lakeview. Each campsite appeared to be level and clean," shares a camper at Wilson H Fox.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer water and electric, but sewer options are limited. "Only 30 amp electrical hookups, does have water, and no sewer connection," reports Mary S. from Taylor Park.
Seasonal considerations: Some campers note different experiences depending on the time of year. "We love Lake Georgetown. Beautiful trees. A COE campground. 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," shares Mary S. about Cedar Breaks Park.
