Cabin camping options dot the landscape around Johnson City, Texas, where Texas Hill Country terrain features limestone outcrops and elevations ranging from 1,000-1,700 feet. Weather conditions fluctuate dramatically with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. Most cabin facilities remain accessible year-round with central Texas climate allowing camping during all seasons, though spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures.
What to do
Explore waterfall features: Pedernales Falls State Park offers multiple water features beyond the main falls area. "We loved the river and was an awesome place to hang out during the day. Directions were easy to follow, hiking was nice," notes Talon W. about the park's accessible recreation options.
Try fishing spots: Inks Lake State Park provides dedicated fishing areas with equipment access. "Take a jump off the cliffs at Devil's Waterhole. Don't forget your fishing poles, as there are also lots of great fishing areas," suggests Jennifer J., highlighting the park's diverse water recreation.
Visit historic sites: McKinney Falls State Park contains remnants of Texas homestead structures. "The ruins of the homestead are definitely worth checking out if the creek is passable," recommends Emily M., pointing to cultural attractions beyond natural features.
Enjoy butterfly gardens: Krause Springs features cultivated garden spaces alongside natural areas. "Beautiful Butterfly garden great for yoga, reading or enjoying the mind of a gardener," notes Lisa B., describing the varied environments available to visitors.
What campers like
Private camping spaces: Pedernales Falls State Park campsites provide vegetation buffers between sites. "The camp ground is wonderful. Very spread out and wooded for privacy between the campsites," explains Kaitlyn M., who appreciates the secluded feeling despite proximity to other campers.
Clean facilities: Blanco State Park maintains restrooms and common areas regularly. "The restrooms were in top shape and our site had a covered picnic table," reports Marnie G., who found the maintenance standards exceeded expectations.
Natural swimming areas: Krause Springs offers unique swimming experiences in its natural pools. "I have tent camped here but they also have RV camping. There are two waterfalls. The main falls starts by flowing into a topside traditional pool down to a natural pool below," describes Emily M., detailing the distinctive water features.
Exercise options: Miller Creek RV Park provides fitness amenities not commonly found at outdoor destinations. "It does have an exercise room and a rec area for different events the park has throughout the month," notes Steve C., highlighting indoor recreation options for rainy days.
What you should know
Site selection strategy: McKinney Falls State Park offers varying levels of privacy between sites. "There are water, electricity and restrooms with flush toilets and sinks near all the campsites. At the premium campsites there are all of these amenities plus showers," explains Troy W., detailing the differences between standard and premium options.
Wildlife awareness: Campsites throughout the Johnson City region require proper food storage. "Beware of cayotes and curious deer," warns Jimmy R. about primitive sites at Pedernales Falls State Park.
Traffic considerations: Some parks experience heavy visitor volume during peak seasons. "The close vicinity to the city does mean that this park has a constant flow of visitors. In the summer it is extremely busy with day visitors, weekend campers and long-term campers," cautions Troy W. about McKinney Falls State Park.
Cash requirements: Several facilities require cash payments. "CASH ONLY FACILITIES!! Family owned," Lisa B. notes about Krause Springs, highlighting the need for advance preparation.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety preparations: Pace Bend Park offers swimming areas with varying difficulties. "Great cliff jumping and deep-water soloing opportunities for the seeking. Also great swimming/fishing holes," reports Kadyn D., emphasizing the importance of swimming ability assessment.
Kid-focused activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park provides structured programming for children. "With a jump pad, playground, Gaga ball, a pool, splash pad there is plenty to do and entertain the kids after a day of sightseeing," Christina explains about the family-oriented features.
Tent pad locations: Many parks offer designated tent placement areas. "There were tent pads to set up tents and plenty of trees to hang some hammocks," Troy W. observes about Blanco State Park, describing the structured camping spaces that help children understand boundaries.
Dog-friendly options: Several parks accommodate family pets. "Extremely dog friendly!" Kaitlyn M. emphasizes about Pedernales Falls State Park, noting important information for families traveling with animals.
Tips from RVers
Low clearance awareness: Krause Springs requires careful navigation for larger vehicles. "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," cautions Brandi W. about potential overhead obstacles.
Site positioning: Ranch 3232 offers a unique community kitchen arrangement. "You have the choice of camping at a tent site, park your RV, to glamp in a yurt or cabin, or even walk out to a more secluded 'TentRR' site. Regardless of what choice you make, there's a community kitchen with small appliances/dishes," explains Rachel B. about the shared facility arrangement.
Cell service coverage: Mobile connectivity varies between locations. "I had 5G service with T-Mobile," reports Red S. about Blanco State Park, providing important information for remote workers considering cabin accommodations near Johnson City.
Leveling requirements: Miller Creek RV Park provides prepared parking surfaces. "The sites are gravel/dirt but the are all level," Brian A. notes, describing the surface preparation that simplifies RV setup.
