The Junction, Texas area sits at approximately 1,700 feet elevation where the North and South Llano Rivers converge, creating a unique ecosystem for camping and outdoor recreation. The region transitions between Texas Hill Country and the beginning of West Texas terrain, offering diverse landscapes for campers. Water levels in the rivers fluctuate seasonally, with spring typically providing the best conditions for water activities.
What to do
Tubing and kayaking: The South Llano River offers excellent opportunities for water recreation with convenient access points. South Llano River State Park Campground visitors can rent tubes directly from park headquarters. "Rent a tube at the headquarters and float the river. Get out and hike back to the start. Never gets old on a hot day to sit in the spring fed waters. You can kayak to town. Coordinate your own shuttle," shares Emily M.
Wildlife observation: The area supports diverse wildlife populations perfect for nature enthusiasts. "The park maintains several of the most luxurious bird blinds with stocked feeders so that you can enjoy many different species all in one place. We added a few new birds to our list. During the winter months, a large section of the park is closed after 3pm to accommodate the turkey roosting habits," notes Shari G.
River fishing: Fish along the banks without additional permits when staying within certain boundaries. "There is a really nice trail along the river that was wheel chair accessible for the most part - watch out for the armadillo holes! There are a few swimming holes along the river and no fishing license required if fishing along the bank within park boundaries," explains Maggie C. at South Llano River State Park.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Many campgrounds offer direct river access with minimal distance between campsites and water. North Llano River RV Park provides waterfront camping. "Very friendly and helpful staff. Plenty of room for big RVs. Clean laundry facilities," mentions Russ H. The campsites offer both aesthetic appeal and practical access to recreation.
Wildlife encounters: Campers frequently mention wildlife sightings as a highlight of their stay. Pecan Valley RV Park offers regular wildlife viewing opportunities. "Deer everywhere with two feeders on either end of sites that really bring them in during the morning and evening. River at the back of sites with fish," reports Bill B. The park's natural setting supports diverse wildlife viewing throughout the day.
Well-maintained facilities: Many campgrounds feature clean, accessible amenities despite their rural location. "The bathrooms were clean, and both the water pressure and temperature were excellent. The camp hosts do an excellent job keeping a very nice campground," notes Shari G. about South Llano River State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: River conditions vary throughout the year, affecting water recreation possibilities. "We brought paddle boards but didn't have use them as the river was so low. But it was beautiful!" reports Maggie C. Spring typically offers optimal water levels while summer months may see lower flows.
Wildlife precautions: Feral pigs, javelinas, and other wildlife frequent the area and require appropriate food storage and awareness. "We saw dozens of feral pigs wandering the backcountry along with both Axis and White-Tail deer, and plenty of Armadillos," notes a camper. Evening wildlife activity increases significantly, particularly around dusk.
Cell service limitations: Many camping areas have limited or no connectivity. Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground has particularly challenging connectivity issues. "The only drawback is that it's in a complete deadzone for cellular. I had absolutely zero service on my cellphone, antenna TV, or wifi/4g," explains Matt S. Plan accordingly for emergencies, especially when hiking.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Several campgrounds offer safe water access points suitable for children. Tree Cabins RV Resort provides excellent river access for families. "These grounds are right on the Llano River, below the truss bridge across the river. The location makes for excellent swimming, kayaking and tubing in the river," notes Kristin S.
Animal interactions: Farm animals at some campgrounds provide entertainment for children. "Free range chickens have the run of the park, goats baby ducks can be seen and petted as you stroll the 100 yards to the river," explains Mike G. about Pecan Valley RV Park. These controlled animal encounters offer educational opportunities.
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds provide ample space between sites, giving families room to spread out. "Sites are well spaced out and spacious. All sites have a view of the river. Some shade," reports Kara W. about Tree Cabins RV Resort, providing families with privacy and play space.
Tips from RVers
Accessibility: Junction's proximity to Interstate 10 makes it convenient for overnight stops. "Easy access from Route 10. The hosts are warm, friendly, and helpful. Beautiful surroundings as we were nestled between pecan groves and the Llano river," shares Dona W. about Pecan Valley RV Park.
Utility connections: Most RV parks offer full hookups with varying amperage options. "This was a nice open campground perfect for an overnight stay in Junction, very easy access of I-10. Pull through sites with full hookups," notes Jeff T. about 10/83 RV Park.
Site spacing: RV sites typically provide adequate spacing for slideouts and outdoor setups. "The campground uses its space very efficiently while still giving each campsite some modicum of privacy," reports a camper. Many sites include covered picnic tables and fire pits for extended outdoor living space.
