243 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping near Horseshoe Bay, Texas spans lakeside campgrounds and Hill Country terrain within the Texas Highland Lakes region, with options ranging from developed RV sites with full hookups to primitive tent camping and cabin rentals. The area features several state parks, recreation areas, and private campgrounds. Inks Lake State Park, located about 15 miles northwest of Horseshoe Bay, provides year-round camping with waterfront sites and access to swimming areas including the popular Devil's Waterhole. Nearby Pedernales Falls State Park offers well-spaced wooded sites with views of the Texas Hill Country. Krause Springs in Spicewood provides a mix of camping options with natural swimming areas, while Lake Travis recreation areas like Pace Bend Park feature both primitive and developed sites with lake access.
Most campgrounds in the area are open year-round, though summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Winter camping is possible with occasional cold fronts bringing temperatures below freezing. Reservations are essential, particularly for weekends and holidays, with many state parks booking up to six months in advance. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer months. Cell service varies by location but is generally reliable at developed campgrounds. The Texas State Parks Pass provides value for frequent visitors, offering discounted camping rates and free day-use entry.
The camping experience varies significantly between locations. State parks like Inks Lake offer more natural settings with hiking trails and water recreation. According to reviews, "Inks Lake is a quiet and relaxing camp area with more modern RV campgrounds nearest the designated swimming areas and more remote camp zones on the other side of the main entrance." Private RV resorts like Big Chief RV Resort in Burnet provide full hookups and amenities for longer stays. Hidden Falls Adventure Park combines camping with off-road vehicle trails. Primitive camping options at Shaffer Bend Recreation Area near Marble Falls provide more secluded experiences but with limited facilities. Wildlife sightings are common throughout the region, with visitors reporting deer, armadillos, and occasionally rattlesnakes.
"An hour and a half away from Austin, we found Inks Lake to be a quiet and relaxing camp area away from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are several sites set up across the state park."
"It was a small drive from our camp to the devil's waterhole. It was a slippery climb in and out but a beautiful swim with people cliff jumping nearby and a view of some falls."
from $16 - $55 / night
Check Availability"This was some of the best TEXAS camping we've done. We found a really nice spot that was on the cliffside and had an incredible view of the hill country. It was isolated enough from other campsites."
"This park, for many people in the hill country of Texas, is the quintessential park to visit."
from $10 - $100 / night
Check Availability"I happily drive over three hours to camp here... Dogs are not allowed, but service dogs are. Just call them in advance and let them know. It is CASH ONLY. Also, be careful how far you venture."
"Cool, spring-fed water refreshed everyone on our group on a hot summer day in Texas"
"Pace Bend is one of my most favorite places to camp in Texas. Not far from the old (and new!)"
"Pace Bend Park is conveniently located a short distance from the city of Austin and on the shores of Lake Travis. The park is managed by the Travis County Parks Department."
from $15 - $30 / night
Check Availability"It was really windy which seems to be normal in Texas! Beautiful pool and hot tub area. Laundry facility very clean. There was a free super bowl party in the community room. Tons of deer."
"Tucked away from busy roads. Cabins and other amenities on site. WiFi not the best at the spots near the water - but this made us slow down and enjoy the view. (WiFi better near the office.)"
"This is a great little place on Lake Travis. Going in the spring time is the best because of all the wildflowers. Trails are easy. Campsites are clean with a fire pit and a grill."
"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."
"They have excellent off road trails for stock trucks up to rock crawling rigs."
"HFAP is an off roaders enthusiast's oasis. With 9ver 2200 acres of full size offroad trails there is surely something there for every vehicle and skill level."
from $15 - $600 / night
Check Availability"Was planning on tent camping nearby and left a day early and all the hotel room were booked. Tried finding a tent site and no luck. Found this place online and figured I'd give it a shot."
"If you are a pro camper you should try this place no water no electricity perfect lake view beautiful sunset and star gazing Note: Site 01 and 02 are not good for camps if you have truck bed camp or roof"
"Only there for one short night but it was delightful to sit in the water of lake Travis and watch the stars on a warm texas summer night."
"As you walk into the lake (walk fast if you dont want to get bitten) you will find pockets if cooler water spouting up. Its kinda like stepping into a refridgerator but underwater."
"Super clean, well maintained, organized, and location. All amenities are newish and most lots are fairly large. We were in 33, which is on the lake with a very large yard and shade trees."
ScoutBend oats has the best tree coverage of any other campground we have been too. Only on problem is that some sites have low hanging tree branches and not very many 50 amp hook ups. Other than that, beautiful place.
GuideWow this was one thing f the most beautiful places I’ve been. We walked the trails. We watched the sun come up on devils back bone and it was amazing
GuideWe stayed over night in one of there electric and water camp sites. Great walking trails down to the water. Bath house was nice and clean. We enjoyed our night there and we regret not staying longer.
RangerWe didnt experience the campsites as this was a stop on the 6 hour route trip back to East Texas.
We did roam the grounds and check it out. Campsites and Tolietries looked upkept. Standard sites for State Parks. Had a more urban vibe to it but thats likely it was near the city of austin.
When we went to night explore b4 leaving there were two sets of couples leaving. One in a austin vibe van ;).
We ended up having the location all to ourselves and got some cool clips for the brief stop.
TravelerNice camping spot. No showers. One restroom in laundry. Hookups are good. Have to pay for decent wifi plan.
ScoutSunset Ranch RV Park in Leander is an absolute gem! From the moment we arrived, we were impressed by how beautiful, peaceful, and well-maintained the property is. The spacious sites provide plenty of room, and the entire park has a welcoming atmosphere that immediately makes you feel at home. One of the standout features is the brand-new bathroom facilities. They are spotless, modern, and thoughtfully designed, making our stay even more comfortable. It's clear that ownership is continually investing in improvements and truly cares about providing a top-notch experience for guests. The staff and management are outstanding—friendly, responsive, and always willing to help. The grounds are impeccably maintained, and the quiet country setting offers the perfect balance of relaxation while still being conveniently located near everything you need in Leander and the surrounding area. Whether you're staying for a few nights or several months, Sunset Ranch RV Park delivers exceptional value, comfort, and customer service. We couldn't have asked for a better experience and highly recommend this park to anyone looking for a clean, peaceful, and well-managed RV community.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
ScoutAustin RV Park exceeded every expectation we had! From the moment we arrived, we could tell this was a place that takes pride in providing an outstanding experience for its guests. The park is exceptionally clean, well-maintained, and offers spacious sites that make it easy to relax and enjoy your stay. The staff is absolutely phenomenal—friendly, professional, and always willing to help with anything you need. They go above and beyond to ensure guests feel welcome, and their dedication to customer service truly sets this park apart from others. One of our favorite things about Austin RV Park is the peaceful atmosphere. Despite being conveniently located near everything Austin has to offer, the park provides a quiet and comfortable retreat at the end of the day. The amenities are well-kept, the grounds are beautiful, and the sense of community is second to none. Whether you're staying for a weekend, a month, or longer, Austin RV Park offers incredible value, outstanding service, and a welcoming environment that makes you feel right at home. We highly recommend it to anyone traveling through or staying in the Austin area. We can't wait to come back!
TravelerThis State Park is beautiful and worth the drive out to the middle of nowhere. This is not Lake Ray Roberts or Eisenhower where the park is a short drive off main roads. Going to this park is a commitment: and worth it. Hiking to the waterfall, mountain biking along the river, kayaking the leisurely Colorado River, it's all great. Vault toilets are clean. Just know it's a low maintenance park which they very clearly state everywhere. Trails are well maintained which is what I cared about. Nice to have a bench, ample parking and restroom at trailhead for the Falls.
Deciphering what's going on with these campsites, however, is a deal. I spent hours before I went trying to figure out what's going on, and still did not "get it right" so I thought I'd try and help out some.
First of all, in the south area, those campsites 1-15, yes, you definitely need a wagon. You park above, go down some stairs and a hill and the sites are in big meadows along the river. I'm not sure why anyone would camp there unless they didn't know, or really wanted to be on the river or had a huge group. It looks very hassle-ish to me and not worth being on the river.
Then you've got 17-21. I read reviews for 17, 18, 19 and 20 and was still unclear. Although in retrospect I did remember reading that 19 was an accessible site which should have tipped me off. I was debating between 19 and 20 and went with 19 for the reviewer who said it had good tree coverage (which it does, over the picnic table. Not the tent space btw, which is in direct sun.)
Pros to 19: you park right next to your campsite. And you're next to the showerhead and water. Cons to 19: Everyone else is also parked right next to your campsite. 19 is directly adjacent to the parking area - and showering area - for Sites 17-21. So when the big group of dads was leaving they powered up their noisy diesel trucks (to charge their phones I guess?) and left them running for 20 minutes while I'm right there in my little campsite 19, which at that point, feels like I'm basically camping in the parking lot!! :) I had bought a wagon - you don't need it here, it's basically a drive up. So, if you need an accessible site and can't get 36-39 or one of the 40s, this is an appropriate option. I am attaching photos.
17, 18, 20 and 21 are down the hill e.g. down the stairs (which are kind of next to the tent area for 19) to a different meadow than 1-15. 17 and 18 are in their own little meadow area, and 20 is nice, kind of in the middle and has some trees, and 21 over a way from 20. When I was there the group of four dads and four sons were camping in 18 and they had their cornhole, tents, it's a great site for a big group - e.g. as long as you're up for the walk down, preferably with a wagon or many hands, as they had. (Also, you potential 19 campers, visitors over the years have carved a path directly from 18 up the hill - in the photo in those bushes behind the picnic table-that goes through your campsite to the parking area - instead of using the stairs. So all of the boys did this and most of the dads, for convenience, right through my site. I didn't care that much, I've got a teen boy myself - the running trucks were more annoying- but if that's an issue for you, be warned.) 18 is right alongside the river. 17 is fine too, just more of a hike as it's a little farther then 18. If you had a group of like 15 people, 17 and 18 would be nice.
Then you have 40-47. Those are drive up sites with the advantage of a picnic table awning (all except 44, no awning.) Nice BUT be warned (which was a problem with my site, too, 19) from 4-8 PM - which is when you want to be relaxing at your campsite after a big day - you are directly in the sun, which means it is hot and it is buggy. Very hot, very very buggy.
In my opinion, if you're planning ahead, the BEST sites to camp here at this park back up to a cliff-face, 36-39. If you can snag one of those, for sure, do that, is my recommendation. In the late afternoon Texas sun, the cliffs block that sunlight and I sat over there (after the campsites had cleared out) it was breezy, shady, not hot and NOT BUGGY, I guess because of the wind blowing through because of the cliff-face. Very nice. AND drive up. So this is my take. Prime real estate here at CB is these four sites.
24-28 are like 40-47 except not drive up. You park and then take your (hopefully) wagon across a little grassy area to your site.
I cannot really say much about the river backpack sites. I was confused by the map which shows a parking area close to the sites. I did see a parking area at the end, near Grey Fox group, but I never saw any tents set up when I biked the River Trail. But mysteriously, later when I kayaked I DID see a couple tents set up, near the cliffs, along the river, so I really don't know how they got there. Maybe when the River Trail is up in the meadow (there's a section through the meadow, maybe a mile) then that's where the tents are down below on the river? But I didn't see signs from the trail there saying "this way to River Backpack sites." I'm sure I missed the signs bc clearly there's a way to get there that I did not see.
I hope this is helpful. Enjoy this beautiful mecca of wilderness in the middle of the hill country!
Oh, one final reminder although its said many places and I started with it, this really is not like most of the state parks us North Texans camp at up here where there's at least one shop not too far from the park entrance. There's nothing. Take EVERYTHING you need. The nearest civilization to the campground is a good 45-minute drive. At least. Really about an hour. (which is what makes it so nice and peaceful.) The park store has emergency stuff but that's it.
TravelerFirefly Fly Resort is under new management and has made tremendous improvements to the property. The new Phase 3 has opened and has a new clubhouse and a new adult pool (Memorial to Labor Day adults only-the rest of the year open to all), large hot soaking tub, there’s also a second pool at the original clubhouse that has a shallow family section and adult section, new pickleball courts and a new 9-hole putting course, and a new walking path. We stayed at site#361 which we booked on Airbnb directly with the owner, and enjoyed the covered pergola with hill country views! The site had a huge outdoor TV, propane fireplace, comfortable cushioned chairs, a granite prep/serving counter, gas grill and dining table. We watched the sunrise from the site every morning! A perfect stay! The new official website is - www.fireflyhillcountry.com or call 830-999-2694 or email reservations@staytexas.com Or to book site 361 directly with the owner on Airbnb https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1689166622240134560?unique_share_id=af8278b9-b966-4e0f-aa22-45578fec4799&viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76
Camping near Horseshoe Bay, Texas occurs within the granite and limestone terrain of the Texas Hill Country, with elevations ranging from 800-1,100 feet. The area receives approximately 30 inches of annual rainfall, creating periodic flash flood conditions in low-lying camping areas. Most primitive camping sites feature oak and juniper tree cover, providing intermittent shade during summer months when temperatures regularly reach 100°F.
Rock climbing and cliff jumping: Access the limestone cliffs at Pace Bend Park for natural climbing routes and designated jumping areas. "My favorite part about this campsite is the ability to cliff jump into a lake. I love the water and this campsite was perfect for me," notes Aaron S. at Pace Bend Park.
Kayaking and canoeing: Rent equipment at Inks Lake State Park or bring your own for protected paddling areas. "Grab a kayak and paddle up and down Inks Lake. Set up your tent near hiking trails and lake access," suggests Jennifer J. at Inks Lake State Park.
Off-road vehicle trails: Hidden Falls Adventure Park maintains over 2,200 acres of trails ranging from beginner to expert difficulty levels. According to Chad L., "With over 2200 acres of full size offroad trails there is surely something there for every vehicle and skill level. From mild stock level all the way to extreme rock crawling."
Swimming in natural springs: Krause Springs offers natural swimming holes fed by underground springs. "Kids can jump off the small Cliffside or fly on the rope swing. If you like nature this is a dream spot," reports Brandi W.
Large, private campsites: The spacious sites at Pedernales Falls State Park provide ample room between neighbors. "The camp ground is wonderful. Very spread out and wooded for privacy between the campsites. Hook ups for both water and electricity, if needed," writes Kaitlyn M. at Pedernales Falls State Park.
Waterfront camping access: Several sites at Shaffer Bend Recreation Area sit directly along Lake Travis shoreline. "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," notes Steve L.
Natural swimming areas: The Devil's Waterhole at Inks Lake State Park provides cliff jumping opportunities. Brian V. explains, "The best swimming place is the Devil's Waterhole. There are some rocks on the far side that people climb up on to jump off of."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campsites around Horseshoe Bay regularly host native wildlife. At Colorado Bend State Park, "First 20 minutes at this park we had deer walking through our camp site," according to Andrea P. at Colorado Bend State Park.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Shaffer Bend Recreation Area offers minimal amenities. "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," warns Erik F.
Lake levels fluctuate seasonally: Water access can change based on drought conditions. "Be mindful that Lake Travis is not a constant level lake and this is a narrow and shallow part of the lake. There is a chance of low water levels," cautions Candice C.
Wildlife encounters: Venomous snakes are native to the area. "It's Texas and there is wildlife. We saw about a 5 ft rattlesnake," reports Candice C. at Shaffer Bend Recreation Area.
Cell service limitations: Digital connectivity decreases in more remote locations. Larry D. notes, "Forget about cell service. Curiously enough, I had WiFi because my RV spot was closest to the office. But neither my son nor I had cell service for some miles before arriving at the office area."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple parks offer fishing access without boats. Chris H. at Inks Lake State Park shares, "We were on a small loop that allowed our kids (8 and 6) to have some room to roam, and we were just a 50 yard walk from the fishing dock."
Explore cave systems: Colorado Bend State Park offers guided and self-guided cave tours. "They offer a guided cave tour. And they also have one cave that you can explore by yourself," notes Red S.
Consider animal-friendly parks: Some campgrounds welcome family pets while others don't. Kaitlyn M. notes Pedernales Falls is "Extremely dog friendly!" while Michelle M. points out that at Krause Springs, "Dogs are not allowed, but service dogs are. Just call them in advance and let them know."
Pack for flash flooding: Weather changes quickly in the Hill Country. Faith S. at Pedernales Falls State Park warns, "Made me aware of how serious flash flooding is here. Respect weather warnings!"
Site leveling challenges: Many Hill Country campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Big Chief RV Resort, "Sites were level and very clean," reports Tim M. at Big Chief RV Resort, while at Inks Lake, Alice R. notes "SITES ARE CLEAN BUT A BIT CHALLENGING TO BACK INTO, INCLINE AND COULD BE BIGGER. NO PULL THROUGHS."
Tree clearance concerns: Low branches can damage RVs in some campgrounds. Brandi W. cautions, "My only warning is low hanging trees everywhere. I couldn't imagine trying to navigate the campground in a 5th wheel or class A. You could do some rooftop damage."
Buddy sites available: Some parks offer paired sites for group camping. Lawrence P. explains, "We were staying with 2 other couples, who shared a 'buddy site' which was pretty cool! (never seen that before)."
Hookup variations: Electrical capacity differs between parks. TexasGirlOnTheRoad notes, "Clean, all the hookups you need," while other parks may offer limited or no hookups for larger rigs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an RV resort in Horseshoe Bay?
Yes, there are RV resort options in and around the Horseshoe Bay area. Big Chief RV Resort near Burnet is one of the closest full-service RV resorts to Horseshoe Bay, offering spacious sites with water, electric, and sewer hookups. It's big-rig friendly and provides lake access. Sienna Ridge RV Park is another excellent option in the Texas Hill Country, offering a relaxing atmosphere with full hookups and proximity to water recreation. Both resorts provide the amenities RV travelers expect, including WiFi, shower facilities, and laundry services. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends when the Horseshoe Bay area sees increased visitors.
Where can I camp near Horseshoe Bay?
The Texas Hill Country surrounding Horseshoe Bay offers several excellent camping options. Inks Lake State Park Campground is one of the closest options, about 20 minutes away, offering waterfront sites with modern amenities for both tents and RVs. The park provides a quiet retreat with designated swimming areas and multiple camping zones. Pedernales Falls State Park Campground is another popular choice within driving distance, featuring both developed sites and primitive camping with stunning Hill Country views. Both parks offer reservable sites, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails. For the best experience, book well in advance during peak seasons (spring and fall) as these locations are popular weekend destinations.
Can I find camping near the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal?
For camping near the Horseshoe Bay area, Pace Bend Park - Lake Travis is a great option within reasonable driving distance. This park offers both developed and primitive camping areas along the shoreline of Lake Travis with opportunities for cliff jumping and swimming. Another option is Shaffer Bend Recreation Area, which provides beautiful Hill Country views and campsites situated near Lake Travis. Both locations offer water access and are clean, well-maintained options. While these campgrounds aren't immediately adjacent to any ferry terminal, they provide convenient access to the major water recreation areas in the region and are within reasonable driving distance of Horseshoe Bay.
Are there cabin rentals available in Horseshoe Bay?
While traditional campground cabins are limited directly in Horseshoe Bay, nearby options provide comfortable alternatives. Krause Springs near Spicewood offers rustic cabin rentals alongside their popular spring-fed swimming areas, providing a unique lodging experience about 30 minutes from Horseshoe Bay. For something more conventional, McKinney Falls State Park Campground offers cabin rentals with modern amenities, though it's a bit further away. Many visitors to the Horseshoe Bay area also consider vacation rentals through services like Airbnb and VRBO, which offer numerous cabin-style accommodations throughout the region. For the most comfortable experience, book cabins well in advance, especially during summer months and holiday weekends when demand peaks.
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