Discover the Best Camping Spots in Texas State Parks

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 Texas includes over 3,400 campgrounds and campsites that cater to both weekend getaways and extended stays, making Texas a premier camping destination with diverse options for every type of outdoor recreation.

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. From Gulf Coast beach camping to Hill Country riverside spots, Texas campgrounds offer remarkably diverse settings for outdoor adventures. 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.

Campground Showdown in Texas

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Round 1 of 5

Best Campgrounds in Texas (2,957)

    1. Inks Lake State Park Campground

    99 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."

    2. Pedernales Falls State Park Campground

    85 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."

    3. McKinney Falls State Park Campground

    84 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."

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

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

    $16 / night

    "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"

    "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??)"

    5. 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. "

    6. 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."

    7. Davis Mountains State Park Campground

    59 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."

    8. Cedar Hill State Park Campground

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

    $25 - $100 / 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. "

    9. Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground

    59 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."

    10. Monahans Sandhills State Park Campground

    53 Reviews
    Monahans, TX
    Website
    +1 (432) 943-2092

    $15 / night

    "Close to the highway but secluded. Of their 20 or so sites only 3 were taken. Electric and water hook ups, trash, friendly staff, clean bathrooms."

    "A must stop at this unique place in west Texas. Beautiful sunsets and well kept campground."

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Recent Reviews in Texas

9114 Reviews of 2957 Texas Campgrounds

  • Chris G.
    Oct. 29, 2026

    I-10 RV Park

    Phone number is incorrect

    Phone number is incorrect for 10 years and nobody is fixing it and dyrt is not removing it. Correct number is on google

  • MThe Dyrt Pro User
    Oct. 29, 2026

    Riverview RV Park

    Closed

    According to YELP, October 2026, this park is CLOSED.

  • LThe Dyrt Pro User
    Oct. 29, 2026

    North Crest RV Park

    Beautiful

    ★★★★★ We’ve traveled from sea to shining sea across this great country, and North Crest RV Park is one of the best parks we’ve visited—and what a joy to find it right here in the great state of Texas! Emily made us feel right at home from the moment we arrived. Ranger and Butter even welcomed our girls, Gracie and Ellie, with open paws! Our site was beautiful, and the hospitality was outstanding. They even loaned us a couple of chairs so we could enjoy visiting with family. Those thoughtful touches mean so much. Thank you for making our stay so special. If you’re looking for a beautiful place with a warm Texas welcome, we wholeheartedly recommend North Crest RV Park!

  • TThe Dyrt Pro User
    Oct. 28, 2026

    Victoria Palms RV Resort

    I am a 1000 trails member and Victoria Palms have great rv sites just for us, sites are all full hookup, 30/50 amp, great place to park and stay awhile.

  • Kim K.The Dyrt Pro User
    Oct. 28, 2026

    Fredericksburg KOA Resort

    Nice quiet area four miles from Fredericksburg. Where there is great shopping. Plenty of vineyards to visit and wine tasting. Very nice campground only 3 months old so everything is brand new. They have a lazy river a swimming pool and a hot tub. They also have an adults only swimming pool and hot tub paw pens ,dog parks everything you could want.

  • T
    Oct. 27, 2026

    Jellystone Park™ Tyler

    Horrible experience

    JELLYSTONE PARK TYLER, TEXAS — 1 STAR. ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTED.

    We paid for a family vacation October 16–18. Instead, we spent our time dealing with concerning cabin conditions, repeatedly relocating, and trying to get management to take us seriously.

    Cabin 122 smelled musty, had an unusually soft bathroom floor, and showed visible discoloration and growth that concerned us. I photographed it.

    We were moved repeatedly. No meaningful assistance was offered. Our children lost vacation time because we were busy packing and unpacking.

    AND LET ME MAKE SOMETHING PERFECTLY CLEAR:

    NOTHING WE RECEIVED WAS PROACTIVELY OFFERED TO MAKE OUR DISRUPTED VACATION RIGHT.

    Build-A-Bear? WE requested it in exchange for a missed hayride.

    Linens refund? WE requested it because of the bedding condition.

    Management has referenced these things as though they somehow made up for everything else.

    They did not. Stop presenting things we had to ask for as generosity.

    Then there's manager Tom.

    During one interaction, he demanded that I look at him while he spoke to me. I found his manner condescending and disrespectful.

    He also chose to approach me to apologize while I was alone in my swimsuit at the pool, despite having other opportunities to speak with me. I was uncomfortable with that interaction.

    I repeatedly raised a Build-A-Bear request without meaningful acknowledgment. When a man in our group repeated the same request, Tom immediately agreed.

    I cannot speak to his intentions, but I should not have to rely on a man repeating my request to feel heard.

    Women, based on my experience, I would personally avoid dealing with Tom.

    Multiple members of our group also understood Tom to say that accepting a refund meant we had 30 minutes to leave the property. Management disputes that account. I stand by my recollection.

    After filing a formal complaint, providing photographs, and following up, I contacted Northgate Resorts because I wanted someone ABOVE Tyler management to review our experience.

    Instead, I spoke with Kyle Mohler on October 27.

    He disputed my concerns and denied a refund.

    THEN HE TOLD ME THEY INTEND TO USE OUR EXPERIENCE TO IMPROVE HOW EMPLOYEES HANDLE GUEST RELOCATIONS.

    Excuse me?

    Our experience is significant enough to warrant changing procedures, but apparently not significant enough to warrant additional compensation for the family who endured it?

    When I asked for contact information for someone above him, Kyle refused, stating he didn't need to or have to provide it.

    I CONTACTED CORPORATE TO GET ABOVE RESORT MANAGEMENT, NOT TO BE SENT RIGHT BACK TO IT.

    I am disgusted with the way this vacation and the subsequent complaint have been handled.

    This is only a summary. My original complaint contains 19 sections, and I have photographs and correspondence. I am willing to share a redacted copy privately with anyone interested.

    ONE STAR. I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND JELLYSTONE PARK TYLER. OUR FAMILY DESERVED BETTER.

  • Nicholas A.The Dyrt Pro User
    Oct. 27, 2026

    Rocky Creek Park

    Nice park with water, electric hookups, and showers. Located right on the water. Spots are plenty large enough for multiple cars and there are two hiking trails. Solid spot for RVs and vans that want a beautiful lake view.

  • d
    Oct. 26, 2026

    Whigham Park

    We found 4 camp spots. All to back in or vans. We are 33’ Class A with a tow 50’ and had to remove toad vehicle to camp. But large enough. Free with water and electricity. Must call police dept to let them know you are staying. A little road noise as on Main Street but tiny town.

  • Chris G.The Dyrt Pro User
    Oct. 25, 2026

    Madera Canyon Roadside Park Dispersed

    An absolute gem worth the drive! Located about 20 miles north of Davis Mountains State Park and roughly 1,000 feet higher in elevation, this spot is a true step up in every way. The drive in is beautiful and scenic, and you'll notice more than just cooler temperatures as you climb. The landscape opens up into some of the prettiest scenery in the area. Highly recommend! The trail was a bonus - had no idea.

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.