South Llano River State Park and surrounding Junction campgrounds provide spring-fed water recreation in the heart of Texas Hill Country at 1,700 feet elevation. Most camping areas sit directly alongside the North and South Llano Rivers, offering clear waters that stay at refreshing temperatures even during hot Texas summers. The area receives approximately 23 inches of rainfall annually and experiences mild winters.
What to do
Hiking trails for all abilities: South Llano River State Park features diverse trail options ranging from easy riverside paths to challenging hill climbs. "There are a plethora of backcountry hiking trails. Not the most exciting terrain, but it gets the heart going to do the hills. Bring plenty of water with you back there," writes Emily M. about South Llano River State Park Campground.
Bird watching at established blinds: The park maintains dedicated bird viewing areas with stocked feeders. "This park, of course has river access to the South Llano River, which is great for short tubing trips as well as what appears to be your favorite for kayaking. But it also has three well stocked bird blinds the attract a wide ranging number of beautiful birds," notes Jim P.
Kayaking and tubing: The Llano River provides perfect conditions for water recreation with rental options available at several locations. "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," suggests Emily M. Dos Rios RV Park offers on-site kayak rentals with "a little ledge that your kiddos can jump off into the water," according to Whitney R.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Numerous species frequently visit campgrounds and trails in the area. "We also saw dozens of feral pigs wandering the backcountry along with both Axis and White-Tail deer, and plenty of Armadillos," shares Shari G. about her stay at South Llano River State Park Campground.
Farm-fresh amenities: Some locations offer unique agricultural experiences alongside camping. "They have a cute little store with delicious pecans and T-shirts etc. I highly recommend and we certainly will be making a repeat visit," writes Nan L. about Pecan Valley RV Park. Another camper adds, "The owners are very friendly and go out of their way to make sure you have the best experience possible. They sell ice, pecans, firewood, and farm-fresh eggs right on sight."
Easy water access: Most campgrounds provide direct river frontage with swimming opportunities. "The river is warm and somewhat clear. There is a little ledge that your kiddos can jump off into the water," explains Whitney R. about Dos Rios RV Park. At Tree Cabins RV Resort, "we are camped within feet of the South Llanos River, which is beautiful. The town is walking distance over the bridge," notes Pennie.
What you should know
Varying bathroom facilities: Quality and accessibility differ between locations. "The individual/family bathrooms more closely resemble something you'd have in your house than in a campground. The facilities were very clean and well decorated, and the shower pressure/temperature couldn't be beat," explains Shari G. about Tree Cabins RV Resort.
Limited cell service: Some areas have minimal connectivity. Lost Maples State Natural Area "is in a complete deadzone for cellular. I had absolutely zero service on my cellphone, antenna TV, or wifi/4g," warns Matt S., adding "There is a general store about 4 miles up the road from the park entrance that has free wifi."
Seasonal considerations: River conditions change throughout the year. "Spent a few days relaxing at this campground. Brought paddle boards but didn't use them as the river was so low. But it was beautiful!" reports Maggie C. about South Llano River State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly water features: Several locations offer specific swimming areas suitable for children. At Dos Rios RV Park, "It's shallow enough for littles on some parts and deep enough on the side next to the wall to jump off into the river," writes Alicia E.
Consider accessibility needs: Some trails accommodate wheeled access. "There is a really nice trail along the river that was wheel chair accessible for the most part - watch out for the armadillo holes!" advises Maggie C. about South Llano River State Park.
Pet-friendly options: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Junction welcome pets but have specific rules. North Llano River RV Park accommodates pets across all accommodation types including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and glamping options, making it versatile for families traveling with animals.
Tips from RVers
Easy navigation: North Llano River RV Park features "easy in and out sites. Many are pullthru. Full hookups, bath house is great. Wonderful views of North Llano River. Very clean and quiet," according to Lisa A.
Site selection considerations: At Tree Cabins RV Resort, "the many pull-through sites are a little stacked together, it's not as close as some RV parks will push it," notes Shari G., while at Pecan Valley RV Park, there are "large sites. Full hookups. Great location. Close to I-10," according to James P.
Resource access: Many campgrounds provide on-site necessities. "At the CG's quaint little store, you can start a tab for items such as eggs, jams/jellies, ice, and firewood," explains MickandKarla W. about their stay at Pecan Valley RV Park.
