Cabin camping options near Killeen, Texas offer access to Lake Belton, Stillhouse Hollow Lake, and Lake Georgetown within a 30-minute drive. The area sits in Texas Hill Country with elevations ranging from 700-1,000 feet and temperatures that typically reach 95-100°F in summer months. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, making heated cabins a necessity during December through February.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Belton: Visitors staying at Wilson H Fox cabins can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating on Granger Lake. "You can find sites here that overlook the water, and have some paths down to the shore," notes one camper. The park features a designated swimming area and fishing pier within walking distance.
Hiking opportunities: The San Gabriel River Trail circles Lake Georgetown for 26.2 miles, accessible from Russell Park cabins. "The trail passes through forests, grasslands, over some small hills and across a few tributaries," according to a visitor. Summer hikers should note that 60% of the trail lacks shade coverage.
Cliff jumping at Lake Travis: Located 60 minutes southwest of Killeen, Pace Bend Park offers unique recreation opportunities. "My favorite part about this campsite is the ability to cliff jump into a lake," reports one camper. The park provides cliff-side cabin sites with water views and hiking trails.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Cabins at Lake Georgetown feature ample space between accommodations. "Each campsite has a shelter with a concrete base," reports a visitor to Jim Hogg - Lake Georgetown. Another camper noted, "This is a large campground with many sites, some of which are even double sites if you're camping with friends."
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening wildlife sightings are common at cabin sites throughout the region. A camper at Pace Bend Park mentioned enjoying "views for days" from their cliff-top cabin site, which featured "a small trail to a gorgeous overlook of the lake and adjacent cliffs."
Clean facilities: Many cabin locations maintain well-kept bathroom and shower facilities. "Clean shower houses," noted one visitor about Inks Lake State Park Campground. Another camper at Russell Park mentioned, "If you want a spotless bathroom, hike over to the underused day use area."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin sites require advance booking, especially during summer months. At Russell Park, "at this point, you must have a reservation to camp here," according to a recent visitor.
Water access varies: While cabin sites may advertise lake access, the terrain can make reaching water challenging. At Wilson H Fox, "It was difficult to get to the water from our site but doable if you did not mind a little workout."
Weather considerations: Central Texas summer heat requires preparation. A San Gabriel River Trail hiker advised, "In the summer be aware that the combination of the temperature and the exposure makes this trail uncomfortable to hike. Take precautions, drink lots of water and stay in the shade all that you can."
Limited bathroom access: Some cabin facilities close bathrooms overnight. One visitor to Leander-NW Austin KOA reported, "No code for the bathroom, it's just locked from 9:00 pm to 9:00 am. They state due to Covid."
Tips for camping with families
Look for swimming areas: When booking camping cabins near Killeen, prioritize locations with designated swimming spots. "Great swimming area. 30/50 amps, and water hook ups. No sewer. Playground area," notes a Wilson H Fox visitor.
Consider shaded sites: Summer temperatures make shade essential for family comfort. At Cedar Ridge, a camper advised looking for specific numbered sites: "The campsites are located on small loops which limits the traffic past the individual camp sites. Many people, but spread out so didn't feel crowded."
Check for playgrounds: Some cabin locations offer playground equipment for children. At Cedar Ridge, one visitor reported, "Very family friendly park. We road bicycles, played on the playground. Hiked around and fished."
Plan for wildlife education: Many cabin sites feature regular wildlife sightings suitable for nature education. "We saw lots of deer and birds. We will definitely return!" shared a Cedar Ridge visitor.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup types: RV-compatible cabin sites offer varying hookup configurations. A visitor to Inks Lake State Park Campground noted, "Sites are clean but a bit challenging to back into, incline and could be bigger. No pull throughs."
Verify dump station locations: Dump stations may be inconveniently located at some parks. One Jim Hogg visitor mentioned, "Dump station is at entrance of park and park is fairly large to haul a portable dump tank."
Plan for water notices: During drought conditions, water advisories occur frequently. A Leander-NW Austin KOA visitor cautioned, "Please note that they are currently under a boil water notice. No one mentioned this when we checked in."
