Camping options near Hondo, Texas range from state natural areas to private RV parks within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at approximately 900 feet elevation in the Texas Hill Country, characterized by limestone outcroppings and oak-juniper woodlands. Winter temperatures typically range from 30°F to 60°F, making it a popular destination for campers seeking milder winter conditions than northern states.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: At Hill Country State Natural Area, hiking trails provide opportunities for spotting native species. "Super camping & hiking with our dog and friends. Set up two tents at one site, and had plenty of space for everyone. The hiking was great with some challenging trails and some moderate ones, which allowed us to explore quite a bit of the park," noted one visitor who appreciated the trail variety.
River access: The Medina River offers kayaking opportunities at Boulderdash Cabin & RV Park, where sites overlook the water. According to a camper, "The property overlooks the Medina River. Even in low water, there is kayaking just up stream from the site." The campground has only a few RV sites, so advance booking is essential.
Pool activities: When temperatures climb above 90°F in summer, Blazing Star Luxury RV Resort offers relief with their swimming pool. One visitor mentioned, "The grounds, pool, children's playground, Bocchy Ball lane, and store are immaculate. Two sizes of dog parks for large and small breeds."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Alsatian RV Resort receives high marks for site size. "Plenty of space between sites and extra wide paved roads and sites. No picnic table, but it did have an outdoor table with 2 chairs," one camper observed. Another noted it's "Super clean, quiet, and lovely landscaping."
Shade coverage: Summer heat makes tree cover valuable. At Castroville Regional Park, campers appreciate the natural cooling. "The sites in treed part are rather close together and irregular in length, some very short," according to one reviewer who still gave the park a positive rating. A different visitor added, "Quiet and away from the noisy RVs this spot was peaceful and offered great access to the river."
Water recreation: Thousand Trails Medina Lake provides lake access when water levels permit. "Love this place! Large spots, fire pits, Medina Lake access and the friendliest of people!" commented one enthusiastic visitor. Another camper elaborated on the experience: "There are trees and shade and it is along Medina Lake shores. The lake was dried up during our stay, but it was still beautiful views all around."
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Medina Lake experiences significant fluctuations. "The lake was dried up during our stay, but it was still beautiful views all around," reported one camper. Water levels are typically higher in spring and early summer before irrigation demands reduce levels.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require careful positioning. At Castroville Regional Park, "Our site was deceptively unlevel, where our front wheels ended up an inch or so off of the ground. We saw a few others that way too."
Trail closures: Hill Country State Natural Area may restrict trail access after rain. "I would recommend checking their Facebook page if it has recently rained to see the status of the park and trails. Occasionally the park or some trails will close if the risk of damage to the natural area is high."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Blazing Star Luxury RV Resort offers facilities for younger campers. "Shaded and very well maintained. Has full hookups with WiFi and cable. Tons of amenities like a pool, hot tub, playground, weight room, laundry, arcade, and a general store."
Wildlife interaction: Deer sightings are common at multiple campgrounds. At Castroville Regional Park, "There were about a dozen deer that frequented the open areas at night and we could hear a couple of coyote packs off in the distance."
Weekend timing: Government Canyon State Natural Area operates on a limited schedule. "It is only open Friday-Monday with camping only Friday and Saturday night. The campsites are all walk in, but not a great distance. Camp sites vary in size, but all have fire rings, a place to hang trash, and a storage cupboard."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully at Castroville Regional Park. "Do not accept a pad in the 100 row as they are not as wheelchair accessible as the 200 row of pads," advised one RVer.
Hookup options: Thousand Trails Medina Lake offers mixed hookup types. "Not all have sewer connections, but there is a dump station on site." This is important for longer stays when tank capacity becomes an issue.
Noise considerations: City-adjacent RV parks may experience road noise. At Blazing Star, some sites are "right off major road, so noisy if you're in the first couple rows. Easy in/out with 38 ft class A."
