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Best Campgrounds in Texas

8,466 Reviews

Nothing thrills the heart of a true explorer like the stunning diversity of outdoor adventure that awaits in the state of Texas! From the beauty of the Gulf Coast to the High Plains, Texas offers terrain that varies between mountains, woodlands, rolling hills, semi-arid plains and high desert. With more than 78 state parks and numerous wildlife areas, historic sites and natural attractions, Texas truly has something for everyone.

Insiders know that camping in Texas is much more than just hanging out around the campfire. In a state that boasts everything is bigger, natural features as well as wildlife areas are vast and rich, begging the weary traveler to indulge in all the sights and experiences this type of diversity provides. The variety of parks, campgrounds and backcountry offers the full range of adventure for those looking to ‘rough it’ all the way to those who choose to enjoy nature with a few more comforts.

South Central Texas is a prime area of the state to explore. Known far and wide as the Hill Country, it is so named for its rolling hills and woodlands. Famous for its excellent wineries, historic small towns and natural beauty, the Hill Country also boasts a unique offering for campers known as Enchanted Rock State Park.

Enchanted Rock is a large pink granite dome that rises 425 feet above the surrounding terrain and is the largest granite monadock in the United States. Indians, Spaniards and early settlers all had stories of magical, spiritual or unexplained happenings around the rock which gave the feature its name. These days, one of the most intriguing sights is at night, after a rain. The wet dome seems to glitter in the moonlight and while regarded as a simple play of light on the granite, the effect adds to both the mystery and enchantment of the area.

Another intriguing site in the Hill Country is Jacob’s Well, a short 78 miles southeast from Enchanted Rock State Park. Fed by a natural artesian spring, Jacob’s Well consists of a large pool connected to a vast underground cavern system that sprawls more than 4300 feet. The spring is connected to the Trinity Aquifer and emits thousands of gallons of water each day where visitors can enjoy the cool 68 degree water. Jacob’s Well is a popular and welcome retreat from the famous Texas heat!

Texas is the second largest state and for some, camping in Texas can, and does, turn into a life-long pursuit. With so many hidden gems, and areas to explore, it could take decades to experience it all. The Dyrt has you covered though! For the secret hideaways and must-see adventures in Texas, check back often to see the latest insider tips and places to explore!

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Best Camping Sites in Texas (2,690)

    1. South Area — Colorado Bend State Park Campground

    107 Reviews
    Bend, TX
    +1 (325) 628-3240

    $13 - $75 / night

    "This is a beautiful green park with tons of waterfalls, hiking trails, swimming, and nature. You can hire a rafting trip from nearby and join a ranger hike to the caves too."

    "It is home to Gorman Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in Texas, but even besides that the park is gorgeous with awesome bluffs, river, trails, swimming hole, kayaking, and views."

    2. Inks Lake State Park Campground

    97 Reviews
    Buchanan Dam, TX
    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."

    3. Pedernales Falls State Park Campground

    86 Reviews
    Johnson City, TX
    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."

    4. McKinney Falls State Park Campground

    81 Reviews
    Sunset Valley, TX
    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. Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx) — Big Bend National Park

    69 Reviews
    Terlingua, TX
    +1 (432) 477-1121

    $16 / night

    "It was on the edge of the camp ground and tucked around a corner. Some of the other sites did look a little close to each other which was why I gave 4 stars and not 5. Most (if not all??)"

    "Chisos Basin is a busy, fully hooked-up ground with easy access to hiking, stirring scenery, etc. if you're out in West Texas, make sure to visit BBNP and stay in this ground if you're car camping or RVing"

    6. Huntsville State Park Campground

    69 Reviews
    Huntsville, TX
    Website
    +1 (936) 295-5644

    $15 - $60 / night

    "Located on the west edge of the east Texas piney woods, this state park features excellent RV and tent camping facilities, and a beautiful network of heavily forested trails."

    "The sites are spacious as in most Texas state parks, and there are many shaded sites.  The waterfront sites are tiered.  The upper tier is where you park your rig. "

    7. Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Glen Rose, TX
    Website
    +1 (254) 897-4588

    $18 - $70 / night

    "Spacious walk-out site. Real hot in July (as expected for Texas). Fire ring and lantern like available. Overall lovely site at a great park."

    "This Texas state parks is one of favorites. I have been quite a few times since I was a kid and it never gets old. It is just inside of Glen Rose, Texas, located along the Paluxy river."

    8. Tyler State Park Campground

    58 Reviews
    Lindale, TX
    Website
    +1 (903) 597-5338

    $18 - $60 / night

    "He was very unenthusiastic about camping in Texas. Well Tyler State Park made him change his mind! He LOVED the large trees, said it was the closest he'd felt to home in quite some time."

    "This is my favorite state park in Texas! Lots of options for all kinds of campers."

    9. Cedar Hill State Park Campground

    61 Reviews
    Cedar Hill, TX
    Website
    +1 (972) 291-3900

    $25 - $30 / night

    "Lake is nearby, and fishing permits in Tx are cheap and easy to grab online. Fairly quiet, but the sites themselves are private a shaded for the most part."

    "Although a small park, the design is thoughtful and you don't feel like you are so close to the huge DFW area. "

    10. Davis Mountains State Park Campground

    54 Reviews
    Fort Davis, TX
    Website
    +1 (432) 426-3337

    $10 - $25 / night

    "“The stars at night are big and bright, deep in the heart of Texas!” "

    "First off, drive in one route, then leave another way. Lots to see. (Keep an eye out for wild bores! Almost hit two on drive in) I entered from the north in Kent on TR-118 S."

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Showing results 1-10 of 2,690 campgrounds

Recent Camping Photos in Texas

1984 Photos of 2690 Texas Campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Texas

8466 Reviews of 2690 Texas Campgrounds

Guide to Texas

Camping in Texas offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. From serene lakes to sandy beaches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

What to do

  • Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds, like Lake Brownwood State Park Campground, are perfect for fishing and boating. One camper mentioned, “The lake has a nice grassy shaded swimming area. We saw plenty of people fishing.”
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at COE Hords Creek Lake Lakeside Park. A visitor noted, “There are deer roaming every morning and evening,” making it a great spot for wildlife watching.
  • Beach Camping: For a different vibe, check out Edwin King Atwood Park. One happy camper said, “We spent 5 amazing nights here on the beach, and can’t really beat camping right on the sand.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Lake Brownwood State Park Campground stated, “Rest room, shower is very clean.”
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors rave about the helpfulness of the staff. One camper at Edwin King Atwood Park shared, “Sweet gatekeepers. Clean bathrooms. Always filled with info about your stay without even asking.”
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at places like COE Hords Creek Lake Lakeside Park. A reviewer mentioned, “The site was roomy with lots of shade trees.”

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Sowell Creek at Proctor Lake, have fewer amenities. A camper noted, “You will need to pack everything in to this site and bring your water, food, and toilet.”
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. One visitor at COE Hords Creek Lake Lakeside Park said, “There are deer roaming every morning and evening.”
  • Weather Considerations: Texas weather can be unpredictable. A camper at Edwin King Atwood Park advised, “The sun and wind can be unforgiving along this beach.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids, like playgrounds. One camper mentioned, “There was a nice, covered playground in the Lakeside Park campground.”
  • Plan for Activities: Bring along games and outdoor gear. A family at Lake Brownwood State Park Campground enjoyed the “medium length hiking trails with lots of deer, feral hogs, snakes, skunks, raccoons, armadillo and more to see.”
  • Pack Snacks: Keep everyone fueled up. A camper at Sowell Creek at Proctor Lake noted, “The lake views are amazing. It’s quiet and calm.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Sowell Creek at Proctor Lake mentioned, “Sites 1-7 are full hookups and BRF except site 2 (low hanging tree).”
  • Be Prepared for Soft Sand: If you’re heading to the beach, a camper at Edwin King Atwood Park warned, “Some areas had very soft sand. We got stuck coming in.”
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials. A visitor at COE Hords Creek Lake Lakeside Park said, “There was a strict fire ban when we were there.”

Camping in Texas can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best tent camping locations in Texas for families?

Tyler State Park Campground is perfect for families with its variety of lakefront sites and large shade trees that create a comfortable camping environment. The park's towering pines provide a refreshing forest feel that even impresses visitors from cooler climates. For families seeking a different experience, Berry Springs Park & Preserve offers a convenient location just north of Georgetown, about a mile off Interstate 35. This county park features spacious grounds with plenty of open space for kids to play, while still being easily accessible for families traveling between Dallas and Austin.

When is the best season for camping in different regions of Texas?

Texas camping seasons vary significantly by region due to the state's diverse climate patterns. In East Texas, where Steele Creek Park Campground is located, spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer pleasant temperatures and lower humidity. Central Texas, home to Inks Lake State Park, is ideal for camping from October through April, avoiding the intense summer heat. The Panhandle region around McDowell Campground has milder summers than South Texas but can experience cold winters with occasional snow. West Texas and Big Bend areas are best visited in late fall through early spring, as summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F.

What amenities can I expect at popular Texas campgrounds?

Texas campgrounds offer a wide range of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Indian Mounds Recreation Area in East Texas provides RV and tent campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, and potable water. The campground offers beautiful lake views within a forested setting. Meanwhile, McKinney Falls State Park Campground near Austin features accessible waterfalls within the park boundaries. Many state parks offer electrical hookups, shower facilities, and flush toilets. Private RV parks often provide additional amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, swimming pools, and community spaces for gatherings.

Which Texas state parks offer the most scenic camping experiences?

Caprock Canyons State Park offers some of Texas' most breathtaking landscapes, with its primitive North Prong campsites providing an immersive natural experience. The park features stunning canyon views, roaming bison herds, and brilliant night skies perfect for stargazing. For water lovers, Pace Bend Park on Lake Travis delivers scenic cliff-lined shorelines ideal for swimming and cliff jumping. The park's peninsula setting provides extensive water views and beautiful sunset vistas. Other scenic options include the mountain vistas at Davis Mountains State Park and the ancient dinosaur tracks alongside the Paluxy River at Dinosaur Valley State Park.

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