Primitive camping near Kingsland, Texas centers around Lake Georgetown and the Good Water Loop Trail system. The terrain consists primarily of limestone outcroppings and juniper forests, with elevations ranging from 791 to 908 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for backcountry camping.
What to do
Lake activities: Access Lake Georgetown directly from several primitive campsites along the San Gabriel River Trail. Campers who veer off the main trail can find unofficial but established camping spots with water access. "We ended up not following our AllTrails after a fork in the road heading towards the campsite, and were pretty pooped so decided to camp there off Sawyer Campsite Rd. People had clearly used the shore as a campsite before as there was a makeshift fire pit and some cleared areas for tents. Water and views were beautiful," notes a camper at Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites.
Backpacking loops: Complete sections or the entire 26.2-mile Good Water Loop Trail that encircles Lake Georgetown. The trail offers multiple access points allowing for customizable hiking trips. "The trail circles Lake Georgetown and is 26.2 miles. It passes through forests, grasslands, over some small hills and across a few tributaries," explains a reviewer of the San Gabriel River Trail.
Weather considerations: Plan activities around seasonal conditions, particularly in summer when heat and humidity are significant factors. A reviewer at San Gabriel River Trail cautions, "In the summer be aware that the combination of the temperature and the exposure can make this trail uncomfortable to hike. Take precautions, drink lots of water and stay in the shade all that you can."
What campers like
Weekday solitude: Many dispersed campsites see minimal traffic during weekdays, offering a more secluded experience. According to one camper at San Gabriel River Trail, "The trail is getting more and more popular with backpackers, so it is likely that you may see others on the trail. On weekends you may encounter scout troops practicing backpacking. During the weekdays you may not see a single person."
Established sites: Despite being primitive, some dispersed camping areas feature basic improvements created by previous campers. At Walnut Springs Primitive Campground, a visitor described finding a "Large open area; for fire pits for lamp hangers for picnic tables trees closer the trail and grass sea areas closer to the water."
Lakefront views: Campsites positioned near the lake shoreline provide scenic views and direct water access. One Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites visitor mentioned, "water and views were beautiful, and it was a nice place to rest after the 6 miles in."
What you should know
Water management: Limited access points to the lake require strategic water planning, particularly in hot weather. A San Gabriel River Trail camper advises, "While you may be hiking within site of Lake Georgetown and the water, it is not always convenient to access the water. So be sure to carry plenty of water - at least 2 liters."
Site accessibility: Different campsites require varying hiking distances to reach. For Walnut Springs Primitive Campground, a camper notes it "Can be biked in from camp Tejas four miles away or can hiking from Russell Park 2 mi away."
Wildlife precautions: The area hosts various wildlife including coyotes, armadillos, and occasional snakes. Store food properly and remain alert on trails, particularly during dawn and dusk hours.
Campsite selection: Most primitive sites operate on a first-come basis with no reservation system. According to a Walnut Springs visitor, "This is possibly the easiest campgrounds on the good water trail to get to which may result in there being more people at this site than others. This is the 'first come, first serve' campground."
Tips for camping with families
Distance planning: Choose primitive sites with shorter access trails for younger children. Walnut Springs offers a family-friendly option as it's "possibly the easiest campgrounds on the good water trail to get to."
Weather monitoring: Check forecasts carefully before overnight trips with children. A Walnut Springs camper shared their experience: "Enjoyed our stay during a thunderstorm under the big trees."
Pet management: While dogs are permitted on trails, keep them leashed for safety. A San Gabriel Trail reviewer notes, "Dogs are allowed on the trail, but it is nice to keep them on lease."
Tips from RVers
No direct access: Primitive camping sites near Kingsland require hiking in from parking areas. RVers should secure developed campgrounds at Cedar Breaks or Tejas Campground as base camps before accessing the backcountry.
Hiking preparation: RV campers planning day hikes should note trail conditions vary seasonally. "The home back in the rain was fine. A couple slippery spots but very doable," reports a Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites visitor who hiked during wet conditions.
