Tent campsites near Kerrville, Texas provide access to the Edwards Plateau, characterized by limestone hills and juniper forests at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet. Temperatures in this region can vary dramatically with summer highs regularly exceeding 95°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing. Most primitive camping areas have limited shade during summer months, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for comfortable tent camping.
What to do
Birdwatching opportunities: 10+ species visible at Government Canyon State Natural Area, where early morning hikes offer the best viewing conditions. "The visitor center is very nice and modern. They often have ranger hikes leading from the center," notes a reviewer who recommends arriving before 10am to avoid entry limitations during busy periods.
Dinosaur track viewing: Located in creek beds at Government Canyon State Natural Area. "There are some dino tracks in the creekbed to check out in the backcountry along with an old stone house. Supposedly there are some hidden caves off trail but I haven't found them," shares one visitor. The tracks are sometimes difficult to distinguish but provide a unique prehistoric connection.
Night sky observation: Minimal light pollution at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area creates excellent stargazing conditions. "I have never seen so many stars! Most beautiful thing I have ever seen!" writes one camper who recommends site 22. The granite formation holds heat during summer evenings, making spring and fall better for overnight camping.
What campers like
Cave exploration: Underground formations can be found at White Bluff Big Rock, offering natural cooling during hot days. "Absolutely hidden gem in the Texas Hill Country. Has a hidden cave and big rock in the river to jump off and it's private!" reports one camper who gave the site a 5-star rating.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk optimal times for spotting native species. "Definitely worth taking a telescope if you have one," suggests a camper at Enchanted Rock, where the elevated vantage points provide expansive viewing areas across the surrounding landscape. Many visitors report seeing numerous lizards during warmer months.
River access: Multiple entry points at Rio Frio — Garner State Park allow for swimming and paddling. "The site has a narrow game trail to the water," explains a visitor who appreciates the river proximity. Another camper adds, "Pretty Area. About 100 yards from the river. The river is beautiful. Camp sites were clean."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service spotty or non-existent in most camping areas. "There is absolutely no Wi-Fi signal. No TV signal, no telephone signal," warns a Garner State Park visitor who recommends bringing books and DVDs for entertainment during your stay.
Trail closures: Rain events trigger restrictions at several parks. "Beware of trail closures when it rains," cautions a Government Canyon visitor, explaining that "they don't want to ruin the area with people walking in mud." Always check park websites before arriving during or after precipitation.
Alcohol policies: Strictly enforced at many parks. "Very close friends of me were arrested at Enchanted Rock! They were drinking beers (out of cans!) and smoking cigarettes," shares a camper, noting that rather than receiving a warning, "they called the cops, and the cops came in and handcuffed my buddies."
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra water supplies: Limited sources available at most primitive sites. Moss Lake campground at Enchanted Rock requires hikers to "bring your own water," according to a visitor who notes that "some sites require up to 3 miles of easy hiking to get to the camp sites."
Consider difficulty levels for young children: Trail ratings vary significantly. "It's good to know I checked it off my bucket list. The energy is serine, the hike up is fairly easy although I would not recommend doing it with very young children," advises a visitor to Moss Lake Walnut Springs Campground.
Visit firefly displays: Seasonal night viewing opportunities at Wagon Ford Walk-In Area. "I highly encourage you to take a walk during the night down to the river, it was like a light show of lightning bugs," recommends a camper who stayed at Site 94, noting that despite limited privacy, the evening experience was worth it.
Tips from RVers
Prepare for limited parking: Early arrival recommended during peak seasons. "Show up early on the weekend when it's nice out otherwise all of San Antonio will be lined up to get in," advises a Government Canyon visitor who notes the park sometimes limits entry during busy periods.
Maintain proper distances on forest roads: Some access routes require caution. "The picturesque drive to Bankersmith, TX via old San Antonio Rd is worth the trip alone! Lovely wildflowers along the way. Once off old San Antonio the private road into the camp is crushed gravel. Some ruts when I was there, but totally passable. I just went slowly," explains a visitor to Bankersmith, TX.
Check campsite dimensions before booking: Space varies significantly between parks. "Camp sites vary in size, but all have fire rings, a place to hang trash, and a storage cupboard," notes a Government Canyon visitor about their walk-in sites, which feature crushed rock bases designed to minimize environmental impact.
