Best Campgrounds in Texas

Texas state parks offer a comprehensive network of camping options spanning diverse landscapes from the coastal shores to desert mountains. Pedernales Falls State Park and Inks Lake State Park are among the highest-rated campgrounds, featuring accommodations for tents, RVs, and even cabin rentals. Most Texas state park campgrounds provide electric hookups, water connections, and fire rings, with many offering premium amenities like showers and sanitary dump stations. The extensive camping infrastructure throughout the state caters to both weekend getaways and extended stays.

Reservations are strongly recommended for Texas state parks, particularly during spring wildflower season and fall when temperatures moderate. A visitor commented, "Campgrounds like Inks Lake State Park offer year-round access with comfortable facilities, though summer heat can make camping challenging without proper preparation." Many campgrounds feature 30-amp and 50-amp electrical connections for RVs while maintaining tent-friendly areas. During summer months, temperatures frequently exceed 100°F in western regions, while coastal and eastern areas experience high humidity. Winter camping is generally mild in southern portions of the state but can bring freezing conditions to the Panhandle and western mountains.

State park campgrounds consistently receive higher ratings than many private RV parks according to visitor reviews. Big Bend National Park's Chisos Basin Campground ranks among the most scenic destinations with its dramatic mountain views, though fires are not permitted. Davis Mountains State Park offers year-round camping opportunities with impressive dark sky conditions for stargazing. Several reviewers mention the spaciousness of sites, with one noting "camp sites were very spacious and spread apart" at lakeside locations. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department maintains most public campgrounds, with reservation windows typically opening 5 months in advance. Private campgrounds near urban centers like Austin and Houston provide convenient access but often lack the natural setting that makes state park camping so appealing.

Best Camping Sites in Texas (2,723)

    1. South Area — Colorado Bend State Park Campground

    107 Reviews
    Bend, TX
    +1 (325) 628-3240

    $13 - $75 / night

    "This is a beautiful green park with tons of waterfalls, hiking trails, swimming, and nature. You can hire a rafting trip from nearby and join a ranger hike to the caves too."

    "It is home to Gorman Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in Texas, but even besides that the park is gorgeous with awesome bluffs, river, trails, swimming hole, kayaking, and views."

    2. Inks Lake State Park Campground

    98 Reviews
    Buchanan Dam, TX
    Website
    +1 (512) 793-2223

    $16 - $55 / night

    "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."

    3. Pedernales Falls State Park Campground

    86 Reviews
    Johnson City, TX
    Website
    +1 (830) 868-7304

    $10 - $100 / night

    "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."

    4. McKinney Falls State Park Campground

    81 Reviews
    Sunset Valley, TX
    Website
    +1 (512) 243-1643

    $20 - $86 / night

    "This state park is a little outside of Austin near the airport."

    "This park is a great option for nature camping very close to all the attractions of Austin."

    5. Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx) — Big Bend National Park

    69 Reviews
    Terlingua, TX
    +1 (432) 477-1121

    $16 / night

    "It was on the edge of the camp ground and tucked around a corner. Some of the other sites did look a little close to each other which was why I gave 4 stars and not 5. Most (if not all??)"

    "Chisos Basin is a busy, fully hooked-up ground with easy access to hiking, stirring scenery, etc. if you're out in West Texas, make sure to visit BBNP and stay in this ground if you're car camping or RVing"

    6. Huntsville State Park Campground

    69 Reviews
    Huntsville, TX
    Website
    +1 (936) 295-5644

    $15 - $60 / night

    "Located on the west edge of the east Texas piney woods, this state park features excellent RV and tent camping facilities, and a beautiful network of heavily forested trails."

    "The sites are spacious as in most Texas state parks, and there are many shaded sites.  The waterfront sites are tiered.  The upper tier is where you park your rig. "

    7. Tyler State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Lindale, TX
    Website
    +1 (903) 597-5338

    $18 - $60 / night

    "He was very unenthusiastic about camping in Texas. Well Tyler State Park made him change his mind! He LOVED the large trees, said it was the closest he'd felt to home in quite some time."

    "This is my favorite state park in Texas! Lots of options for all kinds of campers."

    8. Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Glen Rose, TX
    Website
    +1 (254) 897-4588

    $18 - $70 / night

    "Spacious walk-out site. Real hot in July (as expected for Texas). Fire ring and lantern like available. Overall lovely site at a great park."

    "This Texas state parks is one of favorites. I have been quite a few times since I was a kid and it never gets old. It is just inside of Glen Rose, Texas, located along the Paluxy river."

    9. Cedar Hill State Park Campground

    62 Reviews
    Cedar Hill, TX
    Website
    +1 (972) 291-3900

    $25 - $30 / night

    "Lake is nearby, and fishing permits in Tx are cheap and easy to grab online. Fairly quiet, but the sites themselves are private a shaded for the most part."

    "Although a small park, the design is thoughtful and you don't feel like you are so close to the huge DFW area. "

    10. Davis Mountains State Park Campground

    55 Reviews
    Fort Davis, TX
    Website
    +1 (432) 426-3337

    $10 - $25 / night

    "The stars at night are big and bright, deep in the heart of Texas!” "

    "First off, drive in one route, then leave another way. Lots to see. (Keep an eye out for wild bores! Almost hit two on drive in) I entered from the north in Kent on TR-118 S."

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Recent Reviews in Texas

8615 Reviews of 2723 Texas Campgrounds


  • Gary S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 21, 2025

    Lake Point RV Resort

    Easy Access with Nice Club House/Laundry, etc.

    This reservation was made over the phone and was booked by Lake Point RV manager through the RoverPass system. Military discount was applied to our reservation. The park(please note I use“park” as my description in lieu of“resort” for this stay) is easy to find and navigate. Upon arrival I called the number left on the door and did not get an answer or message service. Another camper had a good direct number and Michelle was on sight within 10 minutes, but there is no regular staffed hours at the clubhouse/office. It is one large area with gravel roads and mostly level. Sites are easy to park and adequate space for larger RV configurations. Our site required minimal east to west leveling. Full hook ups all worked at our site, but some utilities can be long runs depending on type of RV(especially sewer). Bath/shower/laundry facilities are very nice and clean. There is a small center playground area and a good dog run. We had Verizon 5G hotspot signal which was adequate for our stay. I believe there is park wi-fi, but no information was provided at registration and we did not request since our hotspot was very good. Highway traffic noise is pretty significant here, especially if parked at the front of the park. The park itself was quiet and everyone was friendly; however, there are a lot of full time/extended RVs at this location and it appears this park is losing some of its RV traveler appeal. Amazon and package deliveries were made to the park. We did venture into Gainesville, TX and found some good coffee and bakery at Sweet Jayne’s. We would highly recommend Tia’s Tex-Mex BBQ in Valley View.

  • Nancy K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 21, 2025

    Midway

    Beautiful Sunsets over the Lake

    This is a Corp of Engineer campground. Reservations need to be made using the Recreation.gov site or app. All the sites have water and electric. Some sites have a cover built over the picnic tables to prevent the leaves and acorns from falling on the table or your head! You can not swim in the lake at the campground, however, if you go over the bridge from the campground your pass will get you in to the Day Use area when you can swim. The bath house is clean and has hot showers.

  • Nancy K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 21, 2025

    Village Creek State Park Campground

    Lots to Do

    Getting to the park can be difficult if you are arriving after the sun goes down. Once you get off the interstate there is construction goong on, there was an exit sign that was not an exit at all. I was very lucky that I did not crash! Texas State Parks charge an entrance fee even when you are camping. However, the do offer several Park Passes that are FREE or a small charge for Seniors, Disabled persons, Veterans and Gold Star Family members. I now have a lifetime pass as a Disabled Veteran and they refunded the entrance fee that I paid when I made the reservation.

    The campground is not big but all sites have water and electric with a dump station. Some of the sites are elevated so if you are tent camping you have to haul up your stuff. The site I had needed more that the 50' electric cord that I usually use. Luckly I had another cord so I could get electric to tent. Had to use bungee cords and duck tape to stake the tent cement under the gravel again. The bathhouse is clean and has hot showers. There are alot of water activities nice hiking trails.

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 20, 2025

    Gaines County Park

    Nice overnight spot

    This is a really nice location but they do not have water as listed on the dyrt. When you arrive the camp area is large. We have a 35 foot camper and when we arrived no one was here so we easily fit and really didn’t need to unhook. However if it’s busy big rigs might have trouble but it would have to be jam packed for you to not fit. When you enter the camp area just know to the right are 50 amp and to the left are 30. Each site has a dump but NO WATER. There is a huge tanker up at the top toward the golf course pro shop where you pay for camping but when I asked the clerk he said he has no idea why the tanker is there. It has been there for a long time and they shut all water off at the park due to some testing that was bad. We decided not to worry about the water since we are here one night BUT if you are planning on a few days come prepared. There is a great area to walk, there is an area with barbecue grills and picnic tables and the bathrooms are clean. There are dumpster close by as well as trash cans. It is close to the road which is busy but it didn’t keep us awake. Overall not a bad place just a bummer no water. We have Verizon and it was super slow here.

  • Kyle
    Nov. 20, 2025

    Camp Riverview

    Beautiful & private hill country river to swim, RV, camp & cabins

    I visited Camp Riverview in late October.  What a gorgeous place!  This is such a special place with private access to the Frio River in the Texas Hill country 

    The signage is great out at the highway and on the county Road.  Easy to find, and easy for large rigs to navigate and park. 

    Someone worked very hard to build up the RV sites.  They are giant, level, and raised, bordered by railroad ties. They look great. I like the decks hanging off the back. I like that the sites are all bordered with the railroad ties. It defines them and keeps the grass from growing over it.

    The cabins in pastel themes look matching and cute. Good use of the same color throughout the property.

    The bathhouse signage is cute. Pink and blue bathroom signs with guys and girls symbols.

    Golf carts to rent.  Well stocked camp store.  Ice.  So much river frontage. It's incredible! And absolutely beautiful.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 20, 2025

    East Fork Park Campground

    Quite,clean

    Plenty of space between sites. Not many trees in some site for shade

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 20, 2025

    South Llano River State Park Campground

    A West Texas gem

    What alovely campground bridging west Texas with the Hill Country. There are primitive, walking, and RV sites with full hookup. Nice trails, tubing on the river, spacious sites, cactus, sprawling Texas trees, bunnies, deer, armadillo, turkeys, birds. And a real attraction is that it is a dark sky area.

  • B R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 20, 2025

    lake arrowhead state park

    A hidden gem in TX

    We love this place. Even if it is just a 30 minute drive for us, it is a home away from home. The sites are only electric and water, but dump stations are available. Showers and restrooms are also on site. You can also rent a 1 or 2 person kayak...this is a self service station. The Park Rangers are polite and the gift store has a few supplies as well as gifts. Each RV circle has just 5 spots so you can still relax. If you come here, head to Snookies in Scotland for Sunday Brunch...you wont be disappointed.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 18, 2025

    Bolivar Flats Dispersed Camping

    Busy weekend

    I got there on a Friday afternoon and stayed for a couple of days the weather was great I guess that’s why there were so my people. Problem is some people played there music to loud into the late evening two days in a row and the second day I had to move to try and get a decent night sleep. Also you need a beach pass it’s only $10 as a beach employee drives around and check for your sticker.


Guide to Texas

Camping in Texas offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. From serene lakes to sandy beaches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

What to do

  • Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds, like Lake Brownwood State Park Campground, are perfect for fishing and boating. One camper mentioned, “The lake has a nice grassy shaded swimming area. We saw plenty of people fishing.”
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at COE Hords Creek Lake Lakeside Park. A visitor noted, “There are deer roaming every morning and evening,” making it a great spot for wildlife watching.
  • Beach Camping: For a different vibe, check out Edwin King Atwood Park. One happy camper said, “We spent 5 amazing nights here on the beach, and can’t really beat camping right on the sand.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Lake Brownwood State Park Campground stated, “Rest room, shower is very clean.”
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors rave about the helpfulness of the staff. One camper at Edwin King Atwood Park shared, “Sweet gatekeepers. Clean bathrooms. Always filled with info about your stay without even asking.”
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at places like COE Hords Creek Lake Lakeside Park. A reviewer mentioned, “The site was roomy with lots of shade trees.”

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Sowell Creek at Proctor Lake, have fewer amenities. A camper noted, “You will need to pack everything in to this site and bring your water, food, and toilet.”
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. One visitor at COE Hords Creek Lake Lakeside Park said, “There are deer roaming every morning and evening.”
  • Weather Considerations: Texas weather can be unpredictable. A camper at Edwin King Atwood Park advised, “The sun and wind can be unforgiving along this beach.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids, like playgrounds. One camper mentioned, “There was a nice, covered playground in the Lakeside Park campground.”
  • Plan for Activities: Bring along games and outdoor gear. A family at Lake Brownwood State Park Campground enjoyed the “medium length hiking trails with lots of deer, feral hogs, snakes, skunks, raccoons, armadillo and more to see.”
  • Pack Snacks: Keep everyone fueled up. A camper at Sowell Creek at Proctor Lake noted, “The lake views are amazing. It’s quiet and calm.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Sowell Creek at Proctor Lake mentioned, “Sites 1-7 are full hookups and BRF except site 2 (low hanging tree).”
  • Be Prepared for Soft Sand: If you’re heading to the beach, a camper at Edwin King Atwood Park warned, “Some areas had very soft sand. We got stuck coming in.”
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials. A visitor at COE Hords Creek Lake Lakeside Park said, “There was a strict fire ban when we were there.”

Camping in Texas can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best tent camping locations in Texas for families?

Tyler State Park Campground is perfect for families with its variety of lakefront sites and large shade trees that create a comfortable camping environment. The park's towering pines provide a refreshing forest feel that even impresses visitors from cooler climates. For families seeking a different experience, Berry Springs Park & Preserve offers a convenient location just north of Georgetown, about a mile off Interstate 35. This county park features spacious grounds with plenty of open space for kids to play, while still being easily accessible for families traveling between Dallas and Austin.

When is the best season for camping in different regions of Texas?

Texas camping seasons vary significantly by region due to the state's diverse climate patterns. In East Texas, where Steele Creek Park Campground is located, spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer pleasant temperatures and lower humidity. Central Texas, home to Inks Lake State Park, is ideal for camping from October through April, avoiding the intense summer heat. The Panhandle region around McDowell Campground has milder summers than South Texas but can experience cold winters with occasional snow. West Texas and Big Bend areas are best visited in late fall through early spring, as summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F.

What amenities can I expect at popular Texas campgrounds?

Texas campgrounds offer a wide range of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Indian Mounds Recreation Area in East Texas provides RV and tent campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, and potable water. The campground offers beautiful lake views within a forested setting. Meanwhile, McKinney Falls State Park Campground near Austin features accessible waterfalls within the park boundaries. Many state parks offer electrical hookups, shower facilities, and flush toilets. Private RV parks often provide additional amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, swimming pools, and community spaces for gatherings.

Which Texas state parks offer the most scenic camping experiences?

Caprock Canyons State Park offers some of Texas' most breathtaking landscapes, with its primitive North Prong campsites providing an immersive natural experience. The park features stunning canyon views, roaming bison herds, and brilliant night skies perfect for stargazing. For water lovers, Pace Bend Park on Lake Travis delivers scenic cliff-lined shorelines ideal for swimming and cliff jumping. The park's peninsula setting provides extensive water views and beautiful sunset vistas. Other scenic options include the mountain vistas at Davis Mountains State Park and the ancient dinosaur tracks alongside the Paluxy River at Dinosaur Valley State Park.