Cabin camping near Leander, Texas offers access to the Highland Lakes chain, a series of six reservoirs along the Colorado River. Sites generally sit between 700-1,000 feet elevation in limestone hill country terrain with juniper and oak woodlands. Summer temperatures consistently reach above 90°F, and cabin options range from rustic single-room structures to multi-room cottages with expanded amenities.
What to do
Swimming at natural springs: Krause Springs features natural pools fed by 32 springs and includes a rope swing for water activities. "This is a beautiful park with tons of activities and things to do. People are extremely friendly, sites were well maintained," notes a visitor to Inks Lake State Park Campground.
Hiking on varied terrain: The San Gabriel River Trail circles Lake Georgetown for 26.2 miles and passes through forests and grasslands. "The park has access to the 26 mile Goodwater loop hiking and mountain biking trail that goes around the entire lake. The trail is very rugged for bikes," mentions a camper at Jim Hogg - Lake Georgetown.
Rock climbing and cliff jumping: The limestone formations provide natural climbing opportunities. "We stay at Pace Bend every time we go rock climbing in Austin. The campsites are private and there are always sites available. The campsites along the cliffs are beautiful at night," reports a visitor to Pace Bend Park.
What campers like
Lake access and water sports: Most cabins provide access to water recreation. "Wonderful summer time spot, plenty of drive-up tent sites, great cliff jumping and deep-water soloing opportunities for the seeking. Also great swimming/fishing holes," shares a camper about Pace Bend Park - Lake Travis.
Spacious sites with privacy: Cabin areas typically feature adequate spacing between units. "The campsites have a sun awning, picnic table, campfire pit/grill. Russell Park has 27 tent-only sites with no utilities," explains a visitor to Russell Park.
Natural swimming holes: Spring-fed pools provide swimming alternatives to lake areas. "There are two waterfalls. The main falls starts by flowing into a topside traditional pool down to a natural pool below. There's a small cave behind it," shares a visitor to Krause Springs.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book cabins well ahead, especially during summer. "We spent a day by the water but our spot didn't have shade so we moved inland under the trees and it was much more comfortable. They have restrooms, dumpsters and a dump station in your way out," notes a camper at Jim Hogg Park.
Cabin accessibility: Some cabins require longer walks or have challenging access. "The only downsides are the pure number of campsites in one park and the fact that there's only one dump station for all of them!" mentions a visitor to Jim Hogg Park.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat impacts activities and water levels fluctuate seasonally. "Stayed here on Monday, December 21 (winter solstice) 2020. There were only four other campsites taken. It was very quiet. We went mountain biking in shorts the first day and a backpack training hike the next," explains a visitor to Pedernales Falls State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety precautions: Supervise children at all water features. "If you can't swim, please refrain or wear a life jacket. There have been several drownings here," cautions a visitor to McKinney Falls State Park Campground.
Heat management strategies: Plan activities for morning or evening to avoid midday sun. "In the summer it is extremely busy with day visitors, weekend campers and long-term campers. In the winter it is moderately busy," shares a visitor to McKinney Falls State Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Find cabins near designated swimming areas. "My family and I took a camping trip out here when I was in grad school back in 2016 around the time of Thanksgiving. We took our dogs and camped in a group campsite. The mini waterfalls here are really neat along with the rock formations," describes a visitor to McKinney Falls.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some cabin areas have limited RV access. "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," warns a visitor to Krause Springs.
Hookup variations: Cabin areas vary in provided utilities. "The sites have water and electric. The shower and toilet facilities are OK but not great. The site that I had most recently had a beautiful western view over the lake and I enjoyed several beautiful sunsets," shares a visitor to Jim Hogg Park.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on shade and amenities. "Getting in and out of the park was smooth for the most part just watch some overhanging limbs. Plenty of space between sites. Park, sites, and road all well maintained," advises a visitor to McKinney Falls State Park.
