Best Equestrian Camping near Helotes, TX

Hill Country State Natural Area in Bandera offers primitive equestrian camping with direct access to extensive trail systems throughout its 5,400 acres. The park features multiple camping areas suitable for horse owners, with both drive-in and hike-in access options. While the campground data indicates no dedicated horse corrals, the natural area is specifically designed with equestrians in mind, offering tent, RV, and cabin accommodation options. Electric hookups are available at some sites, though water hookups are not provided. Recent visitors note the park is essentially an equestrian state park with primarily tent camping options rather than full RV hookups. Primitive camping areas require a 2-3 mile hike to access.

The trail system at Hill Country State Natural Area provides extensive riding opportunities with varied terrain and difficulty levels. Some trails are specifically designated for equestrian use and may be challenging for hikers. Visitors should check the park's Facebook page before arrival as trail closures occasionally occur after heavy rainfall to prevent damage to the natural area. The campground's location approximately 10 miles from Bandera positions it as an excellent base for exploring the Texas Hill Country on horseback. Wildlife sightings are common throughout the park, with deer frequently spotted along the trails. The lack of cell phone reception creates an opportunity to truly disconnect while enjoying the park's natural features and extensive trail system.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Helotes, Texas (8)

    1. Alamo River RV Ranch Resort & Campground

    9 Reviews
    Von Ormy, TX
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (210) 622-5022

    "I have camped here both in the Texas winter (Nov) and recently Texas Summers (July). It is a beautiful tucked away area. Nice trails, great tree cover and full of nature and flowing water."

    "It's a good place to go with family but too much horse excrement for next family to stay"

    2. Kerrville-Schreiner Park

    33 Reviews
    Kerrville, TX
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 257-7300

    $27 - $45 / night

    "We stayed in the Fox Run Loop towards the back of the park away from the highway and it was nice and quiet. The showers and restrooms were decent, again reflecting other Texas SP facilities."

    "All sites seem to be pull through, so that’s nice but if you get an even number site in the pecan loop be aware of the proximity to a bust county road with a lot of road noise."

    3. Bandera Pioneer RV River Resort

    3 Reviews
    Bandera, TX
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 796-3751

    $45 - $60 / night

    "Right in the action of Bandera, Texas. Park your RV and within walking distance of Main Street. Very friendly staff and patrons and the area is clean. Large pool for kids and has river access."

    "This park is handy if you want to walk to events, restaurants, bars, shopping on Main Street or to City Park. Friendly staff (and they're dog friendly too)."

    4. Hill Country State Natural Area

    5 Reviews
    Bandera, TX
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 796-4413

    "There were quite a few trail systems closed that day due to the weather, but even with the limitations we were able to hike a good variety of trail."

    "Located in the hills about 10 miles from Bandera, TX, this campground is the perfect place to disconnect (you won’t get signal anyways) and hike, run or horseback ride through a plethora of trails."

    5. Lightning Ranch RV Park

    Be the first to review!
    Bandera, TX
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 510-3959

    $35 / night

    7. COE Canyon Lake Canyon Park

    7 Reviews
    Canyon Lake, TX
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 964-3341

    "Purple campsite was just a small walk away from the small store and bathrooms. It was a nice campsite but the sites were kinda close together."

    "The only thing that I don’t like are the bathrooms which are pretty close to an outhouse which some people don’t have a problem but I guess I’m picky ."

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Helotes, TX

1 Photos of 8 Helotes Campgrounds


Equestrian Camping Reviews near Helotes, TX

55 Reviews of 8 Helotes Campgrounds


  • Devin M.
    Jun. 1, 2017

    Kerrville-Schreiner Park

    Don't be fooled...

    Don't be fooled, this city park originated as a State park and has all the amenities!

    We stayed in the Fox Run Loop towards the back of the park away from the highway and it was nice and quiet. The showers and restrooms were decent, again reflecting other Texas SP facilities.

    The trails varied in terrain and were well maintained as were the rest of the grounds. We didn't check out the river side of the park, however this June we are returning to and will be on the river side and will provide an update afterwards.

    UPDATE:

    Just got back from a weekend trip on the river side. Like the other reviews stated, it was a bit louder being so close to the highway. Additionally, there are street lamps by the ranger station that illuminate the tent sites which were annoying. It was nice however to be within short walking distance of the river, but if I were to go again, I'd stay on the other side of the park like my first time.

  • G
    Jul. 14, 2020

    Alamo River RV Ranch Resort & Campground

    A great kept secret.

    I have camped here both in the Texas winter (Nov) and recently Texas Summers (July). It is a beautiful tucked away area. Nice trails, great tree cover and full of nature and flowing water.

  • Red S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 8, 2025

    Hill Country State Natural Area

    I didn't stay there

    I was planning on staying there, but it is basically an equestrian state park. You can camp there, but there's not electrical and water hook ups. It's mostly tent camping. The staff was very friendly. I went to visit there just to see what it was about. If you're a hiker, there's hiking trails, so you'll enjoy that.

  • Ronnie M.
    Oct. 10, 2018

    Hill Country State Natural Area

    True Hill Country Experience

    The campsites were spacious and there were quite a few options. There were quite a few trail systems closed that day due to the weather, but even with the limitations we were able to hike a good variety of trail. Be sure to get the info packet on the trails so that you don't find yourself hiking the equestrian trails as they can be a little rough for hikers. Be sure to hike to the top of the hill and enjoy a coffee on the bench - amazing view of the hill country!

  • Brittney W.
    Jan. 17, 2021

    Bandera Pioneer RV River Resort

    Beautiful Sunsets!

    Right in the action of Bandera, Texas. Park your RV and within walking distance of Main Street. Very friendly staff and patrons and the area is clean. Large pool for kids and has river access.

  • C
    Jul. 3, 2021

    Kerrville-Schreiner Park

    Great Shade - Lots of Road Noise

    Pulled into our site a little before dinner time. All sites seem to be pull through, so that’s nice but if you get an even number site in the pecan loop be aware of the proximity to a bust county road with a lot of road noise.

    The pecan loop has the most shade, important in Texas in the summer.

    Electrical box is old, rusting and the breakers are loose with wires visible. Use your surge protector here - well, always use a surge protector but especially here.

    Water pressure is low so be prettier that too.

  • Laura F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 5, 2021

    Kerrville-Schreiner Park

    Nice sites and park but some are too close to the road

    They have many pull through sites with full hook-ups that are spacious and fairly spaced out. The park has river front, nice access to multiple trails including the paved river trail, and a big playground. Be careful where you book your site though, we selected one on a loop north of the road and it was so close to the road that the noise made it hard to hear each other when outside and the early morning traffic was not pleasant to wake up to.

  • j
    May. 16, 2018

    Kerrville-Schreiner Park

    Absolutely fantastic!

    This is a great campground. Bought firewood at the main entrance for $5 a bundle and made a fire at night. The site had water very close by, a nice fire pit, some shady and sunny areas, and a grill. The bath house was very close by and was kept in good repair. Far enough from your neighbors so that you don't really hear them, but not too isolated. Great overall!


Guide to Helotes

Horse camping in Texas offers a unique opportunity to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the company of your equine companions. With a variety of campgrounds catering to horse enthusiasts, you can find the perfect spot to saddle up and hit the trails.

Equestrian campgrounds include essential amenities

  • Hill Country State Natural Area features a range of horse-friendly facilities, including trails suitable for horseback riding and camping options for both tents and RVs.
  • At Kerrville-Schreiner Park, you can enjoy spacious sites with full hookups and easy access to the scenic Guadalupe River, perfect for a refreshing break after a ride.
  • Cowboy Capital RV Park & Campground offers electric hookups and picnic tables, making it a comfortable stop for horse campers looking to relax after a day on the trails.

Tips for equestrian camping near Helotes, Texas

  • When visiting Alamo River RV Ranch Resort & Campground, take advantage of the big rig-friendly sites and enjoy the beautiful stream nearby, perfect for cooling off after a long ride.
  • Bandera Pioneer RV River Resort is conveniently located within walking distance of town, allowing you to explore local attractions while having your horse nearby.
  • Make sure to check the trail conditions at Canyon Lake Canyon Park, as it offers a variety of trails for horseback riding, but be aware of seasonal closures.

Most campgrounds have horse-focused activities

  • Lightning Ranch RV Park provides a peaceful environment for horse camping, with reservable sites and access to nearby trails for riding.
  • At COE Canyon Lake Canyon Park, enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with opportunities for swimming and boating, alongside horseback riding adventures.
  • Hill Country State Natural Area is a hiker and trail runner's paradise, offering diverse trails that cater to both equestrians and hikers, ensuring a great experience for all outdoor enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Helotes, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Helotes, TX is Alamo River RV Ranch Resort & Campground with a 4-star rating from 9 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Helotes, TX?

TheDyrt.com has all 8 equestrian camping locations near Helotes, TX, with real photos and reviews from campers.