Dispersed camping opportunities near Johnson City, Texas provide free overnight options for backpackers and hikers willing to trek into designated primitive areas. The San Gabriel River Trail system surrounds Lake Georgetown and traverses terrain that varies from limestone outcroppings to cedar-juniper woodlands. These sites experience dramatic temperature shifts between seasons, with summer highs regularly exceeding 95°F and winter lows occasionally dipping below freezing.
What to do
Hiking the full loop: The San Gabriel River Trail forms a complete 26.2-mile circuit around Lake Georgetown, allowing ambitious backpackers to complete the entire route over multiple days. According to one backpacker at Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites, "We ended up not following our AllTrails after a fork in the road heading towards the campsite, and were pretty pooped so decided to camp there off Sawyer Campsite Rd. People had clearly used the shore as a campsite before as there was a makeshift fire pit and some cleared areas for tents."
Water activities: Lake access points allow for swimming and fishing opportunities during warmer months. Visitors can also access some primitive sites via watercraft. A camper at Walnut Springs Primitive Campground noted, "There was a backpacking group, a group of people who canoed in, and ourselves."
Wildlife observation: The varied ecosystems around Lake Georgetown support diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, armadillos, and numerous bird species. Spring wildflower displays are particularly notable in open grassland sections of the trail.
What campers like
Solitude on weekdays: Most primitive sites experience minimal traffic Monday through Thursday, offering true wilderness camping experiences. One reviewer of the San Gabriel River Trail mentioned, "The trail is getting more and more popular with backpackers, so it is likely that you may see others on the trail. On weekends you may encounter scout troops practicing backpacking. During the weekdays you may not see a single person."
Lake views: Many primitive sites offer direct sightlines to Lake Georgetown. A Sawyer Park camper shared, "Water and views were beautiful, and it was a nice place to rest after the 6 miles in."
Variable camping environments: The terrain offers both wooded and open sites. According to a Walnut Springs visitor, "Large open area; for fire pits for lamp hangers for picnic tables trees closer the trail and grass sea areas closer to the water."
What you should know
Water planning essential: Despite proximity to the lake, accessing water for filtration requires careful planning. A San Gabriel River Trail camper advised, "While you may be hiking within site of Lake Georgetown and the water, it is not always convenient to access the water. So be sure to carry plenty of water - at least 2 liters."
Weather challenges: Summer heat combined with limited shade creates demanding conditions. Thunderstorms can develop quickly, particularly during spring and fall. One Walnut Springs camper reported, "Enjoyed our stay during a thunderstorm under the big trees."
Access logistics: Free camping near Johnson City, Texas requires commitment to reach. Most sites demand significant hiking distances from trailheads. A Sawyer Park visitor noted, "The Sawyer Park site is only accessible by hiking or by a boat. It is about 5 miles from the Tejas Campground and 5 miles from Cedar Breaks Campground."
Tips for camping with families
Choose closer access points: For families with younger children, Walnut Springs provides the shortest access route. According to a camper, "Can be biked in from camp Tejas four miles away or can hiking from Russell Park 2 mi away... This is possibly the easiest campgrounds on the good water trail to get to."
Pack for terrain variability: Trail conditions include rocky sections requiring sturdy footwear even for shorter children. Trekking poles provide added stability for loaded packs.
Communication plan: Cell service varies dramatically throughout the trail system. Establish meet-up times and locations before separating, and consider portable radios for communication.
Tips from RVers
Trailhead parking limitations: Standard RVs can access main trailhead parking areas, but no hookups or RV-specific amenities exist. Use established campgrounds as base camps for day hikes.
No-trace camping principles: All free camping near Johnson City requires strict adherence to Leave No Trace practices. A San Gabriel River camper emphasized, "This is primitive (dispersed) camping. There are no facilities or amenities at these camp areas. Pack in some water and bring a water filter to obtain more. Leave No Trace principals should be practiced."
Overnight security: When using trailhead parking for extended periods, leave a note indicating your expected return time and camping location to avoid vehicle concerns.
