Tent camping near Johnson City, Texas offers riverside sites and highland areas scattered throughout the 30-mile radius surrounding the town. The region sits at the convergence of Texas Hill Country and the Edwards Plateau, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 feet. Summer temperatures regularly reach 95-100°F between June and September, while winter nights often drop into the 30s, requiring campers to prepare for both extremes.
What to do
Stargazing at night: Enchanted Rock State Natural Area features exceptionally dark skies. "I think this is one of my more favorite parks I've camped at in Texas. The rock is quite something to behold and it is one of the darker sky areas in central Texas. There is still plenty of light pollution from the nearby towns but you can see many stars," notes a camper at Moss Lake Area — Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.
Enjoy the water: Several campgrounds offer river and lake access for swimming, fishing and paddling. "We set up at site 15 it has an awesome view of the river/lake and it's walking distance down to the waters edge. Great spot to fish for some bass or take a dip in the water," explains a reviewer at Shaffer Bend Recreation Area.
Hiking trail systems: Most parks offer interconnected trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. "The hiking is beautiful! This was my first time swimming in a spring. As you walk into the lake (walk fast if you dont want to be bitten) you will find pockets of cooler water spouting up," shares a camper at Grelle - Lake Travis.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Many tent camping areas near Johnson City offer privacy despite their popularity. "Primitive tent pads in small culdesac right next to the river. Relaxing sound of rushing water. Convenient access at most all trails," notes a reviewer at Wagon Ford Walk-In Area — Guadalupe River State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The Hill Country around Johnson City supports diverse animal populations visible from campsites. "There were lots of deer, really neat to look at. The deer didn't even seem bothered by us. Convenient dumpster, restrooms, fire pits, and grills! Great view of the sunrise/sunset," reports a camper about their experience at Grelle - Lake Travis.
Off-season solitude: Winter months bring significantly fewer visitors to tent camping areas. "This pretty recreational area on the banks of the Colorado River, was practically deserted when we visited in early January. Within an hour's drive of Austin, this area offers a quick getaway spot to get out into nature," explains a camper at Muleshoe Bend - Lake Travis.
What you should know
Tent site reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking. "If you're coming for just a day hike, get there early as it can fill up fast," warns a camper about Walnut Springs Area — Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.
Self-check-in systems: Several campgrounds operate with limited staff presence. "Was planning on tent camping nearby and left a day early and all the hotel room were booked. Tried finding a tent site and no luck. Found this place online and figured I'd give it a shot. First come first serve, pick your spot, fill out the card, put it and 25 bucks in a drop box and good to go," explains a visitor to Camp Creek Recreation Area.
Lake level fluctuations: Water access points change seasonally. "This is a great little place on Lake Travis. Going in the spring time is the best because of all the wildflowers. Trails are easy. Campsites are clean with a fire pit and a grill. There is easy access to the lake to go swim or paddle. Be mindful that Lake Travis is not a constant level lake and this is a narrow and shallow part of the lake," notes a camper at Shaffer Bend Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with water access: Children enjoy swimming areas during hot months. "Our site wasn't too far from the parking area and we didn't have any trouble carrying our supplies back and forth. There was a bathroom a short walk away and a trail as well. Access to the river was a short walk past the parking area and the trail led to a loop of pull-up / drive-in camping sites," advises a family who stayed at Wagon Ford Walk-In Area.
Watch for wildlife hazards: The Johnson City area has native wildlife requiring caution. "It's Texas and there is wildlife. We saw about a 5 ft rattlesnake. Overall a great place!" warns a camper at Shaffer Bend Recreation Area.
Select shaded sites in summer: Tree cover provides essential protection from heat. "We stayed for one night during late November 2020, it was very cold and there weren't many people staying in the park, which made it a very quiet place to explore. Would recommend waking early to take advantage of the beautiful sunrise and observe the local wildlife," suggests a family who camped at Wagon Ford Walk-In Area.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup access: Most tent camping sites near Johnson City offer minimal RV amenities. "This site was not at all private. It seemed like part of the sitting area was literally on the trail for those walking to further sites out. However, I am still giving 5 stars because the fireflies were absolutely stunning. I highly encourage you to take a walk during the night down to the river, it was like a light show of lightning bugs," reports an RVer at Wagon Ford Walk-In Area.
Generator policies vary: Some campgrounds restrict generator use while others permit them. "Relaxing and clean. Very windy, so no bugs! Dogs love running along water's edge and jumping in. Horses ok too from the looks of it. Sites 1-13 closer together and more in site of each other but still ok. Great hiking and walking. Small RV plus tent for us," notes a visitor to Shaffer Bend Recreation Area.
Camp facilities typically limited: Expect minimal amenities for tent camping Johnson City, Texas locations. "Port-o-potties are scattered throughout the park to provide facilities, but just next to the entrance station there is a flush facility with an outside shower. The facility also has an ice and drinking water vending kiosk. No electrical hook-ups, so bring your solar panels," advises an RVer at Muleshoe Bend - Lake Travis.
