Best Campgrounds near Lago Vista, TX

Lago Vista, Texas provides access to numerous established campgrounds along Lake Travis and the surrounding Hill Country. Pace Bend Park and Arkansas Bend offer both primitive sites and developed camping areas with views of Lake Travis. Pedernales Falls State Park Campground, located about 30 minutes southwest, supports tent camping, RV sites, and cabin accommodations. Most developed campgrounds near Lago Vista feature amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to water activities like swimming, fishing, and boating. The region includes several mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some offering cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort.

Travis County parks manage many of the campground options around Lago Vista, with varying levels of amenities and reservation requirements. Primitive camping spots can be found along lake shores and cliff edges, particularly at Pace Bend Park, which offers both improved and unimproved sites. During summer months, lakeside campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. Several campgrounds maintain year-round operations, though summer heat can make camping challenging without adequate shade. Winter camping provides cooler temperatures and less crowded conditions, though some facilities may operate with reduced services. A camper described their experience: "Pace Bend is a great county park surrounded by water with over 300 primitive camping spots right outside of Austin."

Waterfront camping represents a significant draw for visitors to the Lago Vista area, with many campsites offering direct lake views or access. Pace Bend Park receives consistently positive reviews for its cliff-top camping areas that provide panoramic views over Lake Travis. According to one visitor, "The campsites along the cliffs are beautiful at night." Campgrounds in the region typically provide fire rings and picnic tables, with many offering electrical hookups and water access for RVs. Several sites within the Lago Vista area support mixed recreational use, combining camping with swimming, hiking, mountain biking, and fishing opportunities. Reviews frequently mention the opportunity for cliff jumping at Pace Bend Park during periods of higher water levels, though this activity comes with safety concerns. For those seeking more amenities, developed campgrounds like McKinney Falls State Park and Inks Lake State Park provide shower facilities and improved campsites within driving distance.

Best Camping Sites Near Lago Vista, Texas (271)

    1. Pace Bend Park - Lake Travis

    33 Reviews
    Lago Vista, TX
    2 miles
    Website

    $15 - $30 / night

    "Pace Bend is one of my most favorite places to camp in Texas. Not far from the old (and new!)"

    "Pace Bend Park is conveniently located a short distance from the city of Austin and on the shores of Lake Travis. The park is managed by the Travis County Parks Department."

    2. Pedernales Falls State Park Campground

    86 Reviews
    Johnson City, TX
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 868-7304

    $10 - $100 / night

    "This was some of the best TEXAS camping we've done. We found a really nice spot that was on the cliffside and had an incredible view of the hill country. It was isolated enough from other campsites."

    "This park, for many people in the hill country of Texas, is the quintessential park to visit."

    3. Krause Springs

    18 Reviews
    Spicewood, TX
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (401) 236-7554

    "This sounds like an amazing place to escape the Texas heat! The rope swing and swimming holes sound perfect for a fun day trip."

    "Historic Texas camping& swimming site nestled in Spicewood, 30 miles from Austin. Ehall pass"

    4. McKinney Falls State Park Campground

    81 Reviews
    Sunset Valley, TX
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (512) 243-1643

    $20 - $86 / night

    "This state park is a little outside of Austin near the airport."

    "This park is a great option for nature camping very close to all the attractions of Austin."

    5. Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area

    9 Reviews
    Spicewood, TX
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (512) 473-3366

    $25 / night

    "Set on the lake, muleshoe recreation area is run by the LCRA. Clean camp sights dotted a long the lake offer access to the water."

    "My campsite was pretty shaded and the outhouse wasn’t too far of a walk. They have an outdoor shower at the entrance as well as a filtered water/ice machine."

    6. Arkansas Bend

    7 Reviews
    Buffalo Gap, TX
    4 miles
    Website

    $20 - $30 / night

    "The lake is pretty decent, there are a few small trails around the area, and you are close to a small town. Biggest issue? 30 bucks a night, plus 5 dollars per person for a day use fee."

    "We have a pull behind. We were very surprised at how level our gravel campsite was. It made setup a breeze. The loop makes backing into your spot easy. The wifi is decent."

    7. Inks Lake State Park Campground

    97 Reviews
    Buchanan Dam, TX
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (512) 793-2223

    $16 - $55 / night

    "An hour and a half away from Austin, we found Inks Lake to be a quiet and relaxing camp area away from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are several sites set up across the state park."

    "It was a small drive from our camp to the devil's waterhole. It was a slippery climb in and out but a beautiful swim with people cliff jumping nearby and a view of some falls."

    8. Windy Point Park

    8 Reviews
    Buffalo Gap, TX
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (512) 266-3337

    $10 - $15 / night

    "The big downside for me is that you are not allowed to drive your vehicle to your campsite."

    "The site has a great view of lake Travis. The park host is great and very help full."

    9. Lake Travis Inn and RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Buffalo Gap, TX
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (512) 266-9329

    $65 / night

    "This is a beautiful park located minutes away from the lake.  Sites are large so it doesn't have that "reach out and touch your neighbors RV" feeling. "

    "We've stayed here a few times, very convenient location for us while visiting in the area. It has recently been updated and is very nice now. Looking forward to coming back to just relax."

    10. May the Forest Be With You unique RV stay

    10 Reviews
    Spicewood, TX
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (817) 602-6166

    $90 - $110 / night

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Recent Reviews near Lago Vista, TX

1192 Reviews of 271 Lago Vista Campgrounds


  • Sheila L.
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Colinas RV Park

    Cheap rent and Great location!

    Great spot! Cheap rent, safe since it’s gated, and in a perfect location. We’re staying here with our fifth wheel and love the shaded area  it keeps things cool and comfortable. I totally recommend this place!

  • Sheila L.
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Colinas RV Park

    Affordable and Secured

    Great spot! Cheap rent, safe since it’s gated, and in a perfect location. We’re staying here with our fifth wheel and love the shaded area, it keeps things cool and comfortable. I totally recommend this place!

  • janet S.
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Colinas RV Park

    BEST MONTHLY RATE FOR RV LOT IN ELGIN

    I don't think anyone can beat their deal.

    $500/mo includes electric, water, sewer, wifi AND FREE LAUNDRY! 

    Gated, security camera, safe. LARGE SPACED OUT SITES.

  • rspillers84
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Colinas RV Park

    CHEAP, ALL UTILS INCLUDED, SUPER BIG SITES

    Colinas RV Park is a pretty simple place, nothing fancy, but it’s clean and quiet and the sites are very large. 

    The owners keep it up well. What I like most is that the sites are big with a lot of shade trees, which makes it comfortable in the summer. They’ve got free Wi-Fi that works surprisingly well and a laundry room on-site, which is convenient. 

    Right now they’re running a special at$500 a month with all bills included, guaranteed for a year, which is hard to beat in this area. It’s not a resort, but it’s a good spot if you’re working around Elgin, Taylor, or even commuting into Austin. Close to HEB and Walmart, and the BBQ nearby is some of the best in Texas.

  • B
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Rebecca Creek Campgrounds

    Avoid this place

    I'm serious....avoid this place if at all possible. My gosh the people that "run" this place absolute idiots..in capable and just plain don't care. I'll share a couple photos and you'll see.

  • Jacob F.
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Lake Travis Inn and RV Park

    Great time!

    Great staff, felt like home the minute we pulled in. Big, level site, full hookups, and the manager was very accommodating.

  • Shay T.
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Lake Travis Inn and RV Park

    Wonderful RV Park!

    Excellent Park!  Grounds are clean, staff is friendly and went out of their way to help us. We will definitely be back!

  • O
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Sienna Ridge RV Park

    Sienna Ridge RV Park is clean and peaceful

    Sienna Ridge RV Park in Texas offers a peaceful and convenient spot for travelers. I enjoyed the clean facilities, friendly management, and well‑kept grounds. The spacious sites made parking easy, and the quiet atmosphere provided restful nights after long drives. Perfect for short stays or extended visits.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Lazy L & L Campground

    Great place

    First of all, clean clean clean! Both the lady and man in the little store were nothing but professional and nice. First time there and can’t wait to go back.


Guide to Lago Vista

Camping spots near Lago Vista, Texas generally require more planning during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. Lake Travis water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting shore access and water activities at several campgrounds. Travis County parks enforce quiet hours from 10 PM to 6 AM, with violations potentially resulting in removal from park grounds.

What to do

Cliff jumping opportunities: At Pace Bend Park - Lake Travis, adventurous campers can find deep-water cliff jumping spots when lake levels are high. "Wonderful summer time spot, plenty of drive-up tent sites, great cliff jumping and deep-water soloing opportunities for the seeking," notes camper Kadyn D.

SCUBA diving access: The deep waters at Windy Point Park offer a unique scuba experience with underwater attractions. "The highlight is the lake and the facilities for scuba divers. They have ladders leading down to the lake with underwater statues, sunken boats, and training platforms for scuba training," mentions reviewer Steve & Ashley G.

Mountain biking trails: Winter visits allow for comfortable daytime activities on trails. "We went mountain biking in shorts the first day and a backpack training hike the next. Nice trails," reports Rick from Pace Bend Park, who visited during the winter solstice when fewer campsites were occupied.

River exploration: Upstream hiking along rock formations creates unique water adventures. "You can walk upriver from the falls, bouldering for quite a long way. Classic hill country terrain," writes Emily M. about Pedernales Falls State Park Campground.

What campers like

Spacious campsites: Many sites offer room for larger groups without crowding. "They have big camping sites, great for large groups! The park rangers are awesome," writes Ruth P. about Pace Bend Park. Similarly, Kaitlyn M. notes about Pedernales Falls: "The camp ground is wonderful. Very spread out and wooded for privacy between the campsites."

Lake access from tent sites: Arkansas Bend provides direct water views from camping areas. "RV and tents sites on very well manicured gravel pads. Facilities are super clean and very nice. Great playground for the kids and several miles of hiking trails," reports Jacob C.

Natural swimming areas: Krause Springs offers natural water features beyond standard lake access. "The waterfall and spring swimming area were stunning. I personally was a little bit disappointed that there wasn't a hiking trail there," mentions Rachel W., highlighting the focus on water activities over hiking.

Private camping spots: Several reviewers value separation between sites. "The campsites are private and there are always sites available," notes Katie B. about Pace Bend Park, while another reviewer at Arkansas Bend appreciates how "the loop makes backing into your spot easy."

What you should know

Seasonal challenges: Summer heat makes shade essential for comfortable camping. "July is hot... avoid July if possible and don't sleep with food in your tent," warns R W. about Pedernales Falls State Park.

Site accessibility: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain for certain vehicles. "Low hanging trees everywhere. I couldn't imagine trying to navigate the campground in a 5th wheel or Class A. You could do some rooftop damage," cautions Brandi W. about Krause Springs.

Water level impacts: Lake Travis water levels affect shore access throughout the year. "Now that the lake is up, the area where the flowers were is now covered by water," explains Emily M. about Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area.

Noise concerns: Some camping areas experience unexpected disturbances. "If you stay at sites 1-12 you are right next to the boat ramp where people will be loading/unloading at all hours of the night. It's 5 am currently and I have been bombarded with diesel engines and bright lights," reports Shainna M. at Muleshoe Bend.

Tips for camping with families

Consider shower facilities: Parents appreciate clean facilities after lake activities. "Park, sites, and road all well maintained. Lots of fun hiking/running/biking options around the park," mentions Dan H. about McKinney Falls State Park Campground.

Water safety precautions: Flash flooding concerns require attention to weather reports. "Respect weather warnings!" emphasizes Faith S. about Pedernales Falls, noting that the park "made me aware of how serious flash flooding is here."

Child-friendly water spots: McKinney Falls offers graduated swimming options for different ages. "The water was warm, and it was perfect for new swimmers with floaties and advanced swimmers. There's a place where you can jump off the rocks into the water," notes Steph C.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many children enjoy spotting local animals. "Every time I've been there there have been tons of deer, probably the name sake of this place," writes Whitney L. about Muleshoe Bend, making wildlife viewing an additional activity beyond water recreation.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling considerations: RVers appreciate level sites that simplify setup. "We were very surprised at how level our gravel campsite was. It made setup a breeze," reports Lauren Z. about Arkansas Bend.

Power hookup options: Different amperage options exist across campgrounds. "Electricity and water at site and facilities are very clean. The site backs up to a small creek so I can see mosquito issues when raining," notes Ernest G. about Inks Lake State Park.

Temperature management strategies: RVers recommend timing visits around extreme weather. "Stayed for a week in December. Traveling with a 40' Class A RV. Getting in and out of the park was smooth for the most part just watch some overhanging limbs," advises Dan H. about McKinney Falls State Park.

Off-peak advantages: Winter camping offers reduced crowds and milder temperatures. "It was very quiet. We went mountain biking in shorts the first day and a backpack training hike the next," reports Rick about Pace Bend Park during December, highlighting the advantage of moderate Texas winters for outdoor activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Lago Vista, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, Lago Vista, TX offers a wide range of camping options, with 271 campgrounds and RV parks near Lago Vista, TX and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Lago Vista, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lago Vista, TX is Pace Bend Park - Lake Travis with a 4.4-star rating from 33 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lago Vista, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Lago Vista, TX.

What parks are near Lago Vista, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 parks near Lago Vista, TX that allow camping, notably Georgetown Lake and Canyon Lake.