Tent camping near Harker Heights, Texas offers sites within the Edwards Plateau region, where elevations range from 700-1,000 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F between June and September, while winter nights can drop below freezing. Most camping areas feature limestone terrain with juniper, live oak, and mesquite trees providing partial shade coverage.
What to do
Hiking trail access: The Goodwater Loop at Tejas Park connects to a 26-mile trail circling Lake Georgetown. "The Goodwater Loop runs right by the campground. The Goodwater Loop is a 26 mile trail that will take you completely around the lake," notes one camper. Trails vary from beginner-friendly to moderate difficulty with varied terrain.
Fishing opportunities: Sites at Iron Bridge provide access to the Leon River. "Very secluded and low volume area... Tons of hiking if you follow the road in and look for the 4x4 paths to the right," explains a visitor who frequents this location. Fishing licenses are not required within some park boundaries.
Water recreation: Lake Travis shoreline camping at Shaffer Bend Recreation Area offers swimming access. "We set up at site 15 it has an awesome view of the river/lake and it's walking distance down to the waters edge. Great spot to fish for some bass or take a dip in the water," shares a camper. The narrow section of lake provides good paddling opportunities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campsites at Russell Park offer good spacing. "Not every site works for hammock camping, as some lack trees the required distance apart," notes one camper. Some sites feature more vegetation barriers than others.
Wildlife viewing: Night hours at North Area — Colorado Bend State Park Campground bring wildlife sightings. "There were so many animals that came to visit us at night! Owls, armadillos, raccoons, a couple wild hogs, gray foxes, deer, even saw a mountain lion at one point after our campsite got raided by the raccoons," reports a camper. Wildlife activity increases near water sources.
Multiple tent capacity: Larger sites accommodate group camping. "The spots are spaced out and each has a large tent pad capable of firing multiple tents," explains a Tejas Park visitor. Many sites include fire rings, tables, and shade options for comfortable extended stays.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Toilet access varies significantly between locations. At Owl Creek, facilities are minimal. Another camper noted about Shaffer Bend: "It is a primitive campground. The large camp area has a couple port-a-poties. At the gate entrance there are men's and women's rooms with running water. That's about 3 miles from the camp sites."
Tree coverage: Shade availability differs across sites, affecting summer comfort. "The trees are great to set up a Hamic, which we did, which gave you an awesome view of the water and the sunrise in the mornings," shares a Shaffer Bend visitor. Low tree density at some sites results in direct sun exposure during peak summer months.
Reservation requirements: Many sites now require advance bookings, particularly on weekends. "At this point, you must have a reservation to camp here," explains a Russell Park camper. Weekday availability typically remains more flexible than weekend slots.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with kid-friendly water access: Shallow areas with gradual entry points work best for younger children. "We set up at site 15 it has an awesome view of the river/lake and it's walking distance down to the waters edge," notes a Shaffer Bend visitor about an accessible water entry point.
Plan for wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife sightings, especially at night. "We saw about a 5 ft rattlesnake," reports a Shaffer Bend camper, highlighting the importance of wildlife awareness with children.
Consider walking distances: Some sites require considerable walking from parking areas. At Colorado Bend State Park, "You park by the road and then walk down some stairs to the river level, which is where the campsites are." This distance can be challenging with small children and gear.
Tips for RVers
Limited hookup options: Most primitive sites near Harker Heights lack RV amenities. "There is a large parking lot, a large open field with campsites and my favorite is the group campsite at the end of the large open field," notes a Tejas Park visitor, indicating varied parking options but few services.
Terrain challenges: Access roads can be rough and steep to water-adjacent sites. "We pulled it over rough terrain, up a hill, through muddy water, and let it sit outside all day," describes a Colorado Bend visitor highlighting the rugged approach.
Site selection: Choose spots with adequate turning radius and level ground. "Not every site works for hammock camping, as some lack trees the required distance apart," mentions a Russell Park camper, suggesting similar variation in RV suitability between sites.
