Best Dispersed Camping near Lakeway, TX
Primitive dispersed camping opportunities exist along the San Gabriel River Trail near Lakeway, Texas. This 26.2-mile trail circles Lake Georgetown and passes through forests, grasslands, hills, and across tributaries. Three main primitive camping areas are available: Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites, Walnut Springs Primitive Campground, and dispersed sites along the San Gabriel River Trail. These locations require hikers to park at trailheads and hike or walk in, as no direct vehicle access is available to the campsites. All sites are free and operate on a first-come, first-served basis without reservations.
Access to these primitive areas requires hiking in from designated trailheads. Sawyer Park sites are approximately 5 miles from Tejas Campground or Cedar Breaks Campground access points, while Walnut Springs can be reached by hiking 2 miles from Russell Park or biking 4 miles from Camp Tejas. Trail conditions vary seasonally, with summer months bringing potentially uncomfortable hiking conditions due to heat and sun exposure. The combination of temperature and limited shade makes carrying adequate water essential, with recommendations of at least 2 liters per person. Fires are permitted at these sites, but no water, toilets, or other facilities are provided.
These primitive sites offer a true backcountry experience with minimal amenities. "In the summer be aware that the combination of the temperature and the exposure can make this trail uncomfortable to hike," a camper noted about the San Gabriel River Trail. The trail attracts backpackers year-round, with weekends seeing more traffic including scout troops. Weekdays typically provide more solitude. Walnut Springs features picnic tables and larger open areas with fire pits, while the other locations are more minimal. "Large open area; fire pits, lamp hangers, picnic tables, trees closer the trail and grass sea areas closer to the water," one visitor described Walnut Springs. Proper preparation is essential as campers must dig cat holes for waste and filter water from the lake if planning to use it for drinking.
