Horse campgrounds near Helotes, Texas offer direct trail access and varied accommodation types from primitive sites to full hookup options. Located in the Texas Hill Country region at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 feet, these equestrian-friendly grounds experience hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters. Camping options span from riverside locations to hillside settings with trail connections.
What to do
Trail riding at Hill Country State Natural Area: This 5,400-acre natural area features extensive trail systems specifically designed for horseback riding. "You will find all kinds of trailer with different levels," notes Chase S., highlighting the variety of terrain available for riders of all experience levels.
River access activities: Alamo River RV Ranch Resort & Campground offers water activities alongside horseback opportunities. "We loved walking the trails and seeing deer and other wildlife," reports Hilary K., while Genice J. adds it has "great tree cover and full of nature and flowing water."
Explore Bandera's cowboy culture: Known as the "Cowboy Capital of the World," Bandera provides western entertainment within riding distance of several campgrounds. "Walking distance to Main Street - bars, shops, food, entertainment, Visitor's center (Gunfights on Saturdays)," describes Denise V. about Bandera Pioneer RV River Resort, positioning it as an excellent base for experiencing local cowboy culture.
What campers like
Diverse trail systems: Equestrian trails range from beginner-friendly to challenging routes. "The hiking was great with some challenging trails and some moderate ones, which allowed us to explore quite a bit of the park," says Sarah D. about Hill Country State Natural Area, where many trails are shared between hikers and horseback riders.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural areas around Helotes provide excellent wildlife spotting. "We loved walking the trails and seeing deer and other wildlife," mentions Hilary K. about their stay at Alamo River RV Ranch Resort, a sentiment echoed by many visitors to horse-friendly campgrounds in the region.
Spacious campground layouts: Horse campers appreciate the room to spread out. Sarah D. notes about Hill Country State Natural Area: "Set up two tents at one site, and had plenty of space for everyone," highlighting the accommodating nature of equestrian camping areas.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat can be extreme in Texas Hill Country. "We went last year and had a blast. There are very limited sites. But great water access," mentions Jesse S. about COE Canyon Lake Canyon Park, suggesting water proximity is beneficial during hot months.
Trail closures after rain: Many equestrian trails close temporarily to prevent damage. "I would recommend checking their Facebook page if it has recently rained to see the status of the park and trails," advises Megan E. about Hill Country State Natural Area.
Campground amenities vary widely: From primitive to full-service options. "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," explains Red S. about Hill Country State Natural Area.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with diverse activities: Kerrville-Schreiner Park offers activities beyond horseback riding. "Took the family and had a blast. Fishing, hiking, and geocaching was great," shares Jake S., highlighting the multi-activity options.
Look for wildlife viewing opportunities: Many children enjoy animal spotting from campsites. "We saw a deer, squirrels, and even a herd of blackbuck antelope," reports Jackie R. about her family's experience at Kerrville-Schreiner Park.
Find campgrounds with clean facilities: When camping with children, clean bathrooms make a big difference. "The restroom and showers were older but kept clean," notes rrincon78 about Kerrville-Schreiner Park, while mentioning that their site was "across the street from the restroom/showers."
Tips from RVers
Check hookup availability: Many horse campgrounds have limited RV amenities. "You can camp there, but there's not electrical and water hook ups. It's mostly tent camping," notes Red S. about Hill Country State Natural Area, emphasizing the primitive nature of some equestrian sites.
Consider noise factors: COE Canyon Lake Canyon Park provides water access but varies in noise levels. "We picked a weekend that was hot knowing not many would want to camp. The areas you can camp at are primitive enough that you still feel like you are in the forest," shares Jess S.
Reserve well ahead for full-hookup sites: Full-service sites for RVs with horses are limited in the Helotes area. "Most sites had a stone or wood picnic table, shady trees, and a fire ring," reports Jackie R. about Kerrville-Schreiner Park, noting that "The first row is all pull through sites with full hookups."
