Tent camping opportunities near Kenedy, Texas extend beyond established parks to include several natural areas with primitive sites. The regional climate features hot summers with average highs of 95°F from June through August, and mild winters with occasional cold fronts bringing temperatures down to the 30s. Camping areas around Kenedy vary from river-adjacent sites to open fields, with several locations offering different terrain experiences within a 35-mile radius.
What to do
Explore historic sites and missions: At Vaquero Camping Area, campers can visit the nearby mission, which offers cultural and educational value. "It's great if you're close to San Antonio. We learned a lot about the mission which is a must see," reports Gloria F. The mission site provides context about the region's Spanish colonial history.
Visit local shops and businesses: The town of Goliad offers unique shopping experiences within easy reach of camping areas. "I would recommend going into town and checking out all of the shops. There are a lot of eclectic items for sale," suggests Jeff H. who stayed at Vaquero Camping Area. Local businesses typically operate Tuesday through Saturday with limited hours on Sundays.
Paddling opportunities: The San Antonio River provides water recreation options for tent campers staying at Longhorn Camping Area. "Nice bike trail and paddle destination," notes John H. about the river access points. Kayak and canoe launches are available at designated points within the park.
What campers like
Shaded campsites: At Longhorn Camping Area, the tree cover provides relief from Texas heat. "Great historic site. Shady trails, too, along the river. We stayed at site 14. It looks like number 17 and number 19 are real shady," advises Kimberly V., identifying specific site numbers with optimal shade coverage.
Clean facilities: Angels In Goliad RV Park receives positive feedback for maintenance standards. "Gravel pads. New hookups," notes Shiner T., highlighting the updated infrastructure at this location. The park maintains regular cleaning schedules for all shared facilities.
Local history lessons: Camping areas around Kenedy provide opportunities to learn about regional history. "Stayed here for one night it was a very nice place and has very friendly hosts. Make sure to learn about the history of the town from them," recommends Dennis B. about his stay at Angels In Goliad RV Park. Host-led informal history discussions occur regularly during summer months.
What you should know
Additional fees may apply: Some parks charge per-person entry fees beyond the base campsite reservation cost. At Calaveras Lake Park, campers report unexpected charges: "We made reservations and after we get there they tell us it's another $7 a day per person for entry fee. Plus they wanted another $14 a day for the kayaks," reports Bob B. Always confirm all applicable fees when booking.
Campsite terrain varies: Many sites feature gravel pads rather than grass or dirt surfaces. "A little uneven but pull through and lots of shade around the fire pit," notes Jeff H. about site 17 at Vaquero Camping Area. Tent campers should bring appropriate padding or ground tarps for comfort on these surfaces.
Weather considerations: Summer camping requires heat preparation with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from May through September. Winter camping offers milder daytime temperatures but overnight lows can drop below 40°F from December through February. Spring typically brings peak wildflower viewing from March through April.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with organized activities: Some parks offer scheduled programming especially beneficial for families with children. "This campground has loops for travel trailers and test sites. It has pull-through, shaded sites. It is a clean campground with a relaxed atmosphere. We have camped here many times and have enjoyed each trip. Recommend going during Rio Rio," suggests Donna M. about Vaquero Camping Area.
Select sites with natural features: Parks with relaxed atmospheres provide good environments for families. "It was a very calming experience. If you looking for a park to relax and enjoy a day I would recommend," shares Bernie S. about their experience at Helton Nature Park, which offers 43 tent sites.
Consider proximity to facilities: When camping with children, sites closer to restrooms and water sources reduce walking distances. Most established campgrounds near Kenedy provide centralized facilities within walking distance of all campsites. Water spigots are typically placed at intervals throughout camping loops.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup specifications: Angels In Goliad RV Park offers sewer and water hookups but has specific electrical connections. "Gravel pads. New hookups," notes Shiner T., indicating recently updated utility connections at this location. Standard 30-amp service is most common in the region.
Confirm site dimensions: While some campgrounds advertise big-rig friendly status, actual site dimensions may vary. Most RV-accommodating sites near Kenedy can handle units up to 35 feet in length. Longer rigs may require calling ahead to confirm accessibility.
Reserve pull-through sites when available: Sites that allow drive-through parking eliminate the need for backing. "A little uneven but pull through and lots of shade around the fire pit," reports Jeff H. about site 17 at Vaquero Camping Area, noting both the convenience and the terrain characteristics tent campers should prepare for.
