Primitive camping opportunities abound in the Texas Hill Country near Lago Vista, situated approximately 30 miles northwest of Austin. The region features rolling limestone hills, cedar breaks, and elevations ranging from 700 to 1,300 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F while winters remain mild, with occasional freezing nights from December through February.
What to do
Cliff jumping and swimming: At Pace Bend Park - Lake Travis, visitors can enjoy natural rock formations perfect for water activities. "My favorite part about this campsite is the ability to cliff jump into a lake. I love the water and this campsite was perfect for me," notes Aaron S. The park features numerous swimming spots along its rocky shoreline.
Mountain biking and hiking: The trail system at Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area offers 10 miles of paths for cyclists and hikers. Tim W. explains that "With 10 miles of hiking/biking trails that are mostly under tree cover, the park offers a nice amount of day hiking." Most trails maintain moderate difficulty levels with some technical sections.
Horseback riding opportunities: Equestrian campers will find several horse campgrounds near Lago Vista, Texas with designated facilities. As Candice C. reports about Shaffer Bend, "This is a great little place on Lake Travis. Campsites are clean with a fire pit and a grill. There is easy access to the lake to go swim or paddle." The area contains multiple parks with horse pens and trails designed for riders.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Pedernales Falls State Park Campground receives high marks for its spacious layout. According to Kaitlyn M., "The camp ground is wonderful. Very spread out and wooded for privacy between the campsites. Hook ups for both water and electricity, if needed." The developed sites feature gravel pads with defined boundaries.
Clear swimming holes: Natural springs and waterways attract visitors during hot months. A guest at Krause Springs shared: "This place was wonderful. Spent hours just floating in the springs and natural spring pool. Kids can jump off the small Cliffside or fly on the rope swing." Water clarity varies seasonally but remains best in late spring.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime wildlife spotting times throughout the region. Whitney L. mentions that at Muleshoe Bend "Every time I've been there there have been tons of deer, probably the name sake of this place." Campers regularly report sightings of white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, armadillos, and various bird species.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water levels fluctuate dramatically on Lake Travis, affecting access. Emily M. notes about Muleshoe Bend: "Others have commented about the bluebonnets, but really, now that the lake is up, the area where the flowers were is now covered by water." Lake levels typically peak in late spring and reach their lowest point by late summer.
Facility limitations: Most primitive horse campgrounds near Lago Vista offer limited amenities. Robin explains about Shaffer Bend Recreation Area: "Relaxing and clean. Very windy, so no bugs! Dogs love running along water's edge and jumping in. Horses ok too from the looks of it." Prepare for basic facilities and sometimes lengthy drives to restrooms or water.
Safety concerns: Weather changes require vigilance in this region. Faith S. from Pedernales Falls State Park warns: "Made me aware of how serious flash flooding is here. Respect weather warnings!" Steep terrain, slippery rocks, and wildlife encounters require appropriate preparation and caution.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly water features: Locations with gradual entry points work best for young swimmers. "Kids can jump off the small Cliffside or fly on the rope swing. If you like nature this is a dream spot," shares Brandi W. about Krause Springs. Look for designated swimming areas with beach access rather than rocky shorelines.
Playground access: Some parks include recreational facilities specifically for children. Lauren Z. reports that at Arkansas Bend: "We have enjoyed the hiking trails down by the water and the playground for our kids." Many family-oriented campgrounds offer designated play areas within walking distance of campsites.
Bathroom proximity: When camping with small children, select sites near restrooms. Ruth P. cautions about Pace Bend Park: "The only down side to this park is 9 out 10 of the toilets are drop toilets (no flush, hole in the ground). Other then that, this park is a great fit for families, elderly people and even college groups." Some parks feature improved facilities at central locations only.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many hill country campgrounds feature uneven terrain. Jacob C. notes about Arkansas Bend: "RV and tents sites on very well manicured gravel pads. Facilities are super clean and very nice." Before arrival, check whether sites provide level pads or require additional equipment.
Low clearance warnings: Tree cover presents challenges for larger vehicles. Brandi W. cautions about Krause Springs: "My only warning is 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." Check height restrictions before booking sites with overhead obstacles.
Hookup availability: Only select locations offer full RV services. At Becky B. says of Freedom Lives Ranch RV Resort: "30/50 electric, water and sewer. Has a clubhouse with a fully stocked kitchen free to use. Showers and laundry. All this plus you can board your pets and horses!! All pull through sites." Most primitive camping areas near Lago Vista provide limited or no hookups.
