Pedernales Falls State Park Campground features diverse hiking trails and camping options approximately 10 miles west of Johnson City in the Texas Hill Country. The park sits at around 1,100 feet elevation and encompasses 5,212 acres of rocky terrain centered around the Pedernales River. Primitive camping areas require a 2-mile hike from parking, while the main campground offers sites with varying levels of privacy and amenities.
What to do
Riverside hiking trails: Explore the extensive trail system at Pedernales Falls State Park Campground. "Lots of hiking trails here. Good swimming. The falls are pretty. You can walk upriver from the falls, bouldering for quite a long way. Classic hill country terrain," notes Emily M. The park offers several miles of trails with different difficulty levels.
Water activities: Take advantage of the clear waters at Guadalupe River RV Park and Campgrounds. "Beautiful River and Falls. Let me start by saying avoid July if possible... The falls are beautiful, lots of trees to help provide shade, and typical nice state park trails for the area. A beautiful small river near the back country camping," writes R W. The river is typically open for swimming from March through October.
Stargazing opportunities: Find dark skies at Ranch 3232, located just minutes from Johnson City. "Small cute hill country setting with great sunset views. Lots of dark skies with stars," according to Ken. The property sits far enough from city lights for quality nighttime viewing during clear conditions.
What campers like
Large, private sites: Many campers appreciate the spaciousness at Inks Lake State Park Campground. "My wife, kids, dogs and I went out to Inks Lake and we stayed in site 345, in the tent only sites. It was a great site that backed right up on the lake. We had a natural split level site with a clearing towards the lake," explains Chris H. Most sites are well-separated and can accommodate multiple tents.
Community amenities: Visitors to Ranch 3232 frequently mention the shared facilities. "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 and the bathhouse with showers, toilets, and vanities," says Rachel B. This makes extended stays more comfortable for all campers.
Scenic overlooks: Cliffside views draw many to Pace Bend Park. "Was absolutely stunning, it's on a cliff top so your 'backyard' is a small trail to a gorgeous overlook of the lake and adjacent cliffs. I didn't expect to be given this view," says Juliet S. The park features numerous trails leading to panoramic vistas throughout its 1,368 acres.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Flash flooding poses a serious risk at Pedernales Falls. "This park has always been a favorite central texas spot to go to. Weve camped with scouts, camped as a family and camped with friends. A camping staple for us. Great river, view. Made me aware of how serious flash flooding is here. Respect weather warnings!" advises Faith S. The river can rise rapidly during storms.
Site selection tips: Choose carefully at Blanco State Park Campground to avoid noise. "Great swimming. Shaded campsites. Walking distance into Blanco. On future visits I would choose campsites on the #20 side of the campground for less traffic noise," suggests Mylie A. Sites closer to the highway experience more road sounds.
Wildlife awareness: Expect nocturnal animal activity at dog friendly campgrounds near Johnson City. "Beware of animal activity, specially at night. Armadillos and raccoons are everywhere and they get a little bit noisy at night," warns Ruben J. about Guadalupe River State Park. Store food securely to prevent attracting wildlife to your campsite.
Tips for camping with families
Easy water access: Families with children appreciate Krause Springs. "This place was wonderful. Spent hours just floating in the springs and natural spring pool. Kids can jump off the small Cliffside or fly on the rope swing. If you like nature this is a dream spot," shares Brandi W. The natural pool maintains a consistent 68°F temperature year-round.
Educational opportunities: Pace Bend Park - Lake Travis offers learning experiences beyond recreation. "Love Pace Bend! It is only a 40 minute drive from Austin, perfect for a weekend get away. They have big camping sites, great for large groups! The park ranger are awesome!" Ruth P. explains. The park offers occasional ranger programs covering local ecology and wildlife.
Multi-generation comfort: Several pet-friendly camping areas near Johnson City accommodate varied ability levels. "The camp ground is wonderful. Very spread out and wooded for privacy between the campsites. Hook ups for both water and electricity, if needed. Extremely dog friendly!" notes Kaitlyn M. about Pedernales Falls. Most trails feature clearly marked difficulty ratings.
Tips from RVers
Site logistics: RV campers should note the constraints at Krause Springs. "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. Smaller RVs under 25 feet navigate the grounds most easily.
Pet-friendly amenities: Dog owners appreciate the dedicated spaces at Miller Creek RV Park. "There is a nice size dog park area for an RV park of this size. One of the things I love is taking my dogs to the park first thing in the morning and watching the cows in the pasture next to the park through the fence," shares Brian A. The park maintains this fenced area specifically for off-leash exercise.
Access to supplies: For RVers needing provisions while staying at pet-friendly campgrounds near Johnson City, Roadrunner RV Park offers convenience. "Small sized park. You can walk to most of the town. Visited nearby Fredericksburg. Good Tmobile service. They have wifi available," notes Kathy H. This accessibility makes resupplying simple during longer stays.
