M
Mark S.
Scout
ScoutRiverview RV Park
Closed
According to YELP, October 2026, this park is CLOSED.
Tent Camping near Llano, TX
13 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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Tent campers near Llano, Texas can choose from several established campgrounds within an hour's drive, including Enchanted Rock State Natural Area with its Moss Lake and Walnut Springs Areas, and Colorado Bend State Park offering primitive tent sites. Grenwelge Park in Llano itself provides limited tent camping primarily during seasonal events and festivals. Most tent sites in the region are situated in the scenic Texas Hill Country with views of granite formations, rivers, or lakes.
Surface details at tent sites vary considerably throughout the region, with most offering basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings. Campers should note that many primitive tent areas require reservations, particularly at popular destinations like Enchanted Rock where weekend spots fill months in advance. One camper noted, "The walk-in sites are really close together and the campground is pretty small. I recommend bringing your hiking pack and hiking a mile to the primitive sites, if you're able." Walk-in tent sites at Colorado Bend State Park are located near the Colorado River but offer limited privacy, while primitive backpacking areas provide more seclusion but require hiking in with all supplies.
Areas farther from Llano offer deeper seclusion for tent campers. Cedar Point Recreation Area and Shaffer Bend Recreation Area provide tent sites near Lake Travis with water access. A review mentioned that Shaffer Bend has "plenty of shade to hang a hammock" and sites that are "walking distance to the sandy beach of Lake Travis." Most tent campgrounds in the region have composting toilets or vault toilets rather than plumbed facilities. Summer temperatures can be extremely hot, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for tent camping. Campers should be prepared for limited cell service, particularly at Colorado Bend State Park where reviews indicate Verizon service disappears several miles before reaching the park entrance.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Llano (13)
1. Moss Lake Area — Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
"You'll be walking on solid granite. During the summer the temperatures rise sharply and there is limited shade to rest under on the summit."
"Once you walk about 20 feet, you’ll be in complete darkness without a light."
from $14 / night
Check Availability2. Walnut Springs Area — Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
"Drove 3.5hrs from Dickinson, TX with more than enough time to hike out to our camp site, set up and catch an unbelievable sunset from one of the scenic lookouts."
"Tent camping is all they offer here I believe. I went on solo weekend camp out and really enjoyed it. The grounds are nice. You are not allowed to hang anything from trees which is a bummer."
from $14 / night
Check Availability3. Grenwelge Park
"We stayed here the evening of 2/16/20 thanks to location being shared by first reviewer. Great spot as described."
4. North Area — Colorado Bend State Park Campground
"There are rivers, streams, water holes, trees, caves and plenty of hike and bike trails to explore. This park offers drive-up, walk-in, hike-in primitive and group campsites. "
"The walk-in campsites are beautiful. They are well spaced and quite close to the river. The have lattern post, a picnic bench and a fire ring."
from $13 - $35 / night
Check Availability5. Cedar Point Recreation Area
"The campsite was nice and clean with a fire ring and a charcoal grill. The water was a little low but if you plan on doing a lot of swimming, bring water shoes."
"This is a small, quiet park w/ 9 total campsites all right on the lake. Sites 1-3 are larger and more secluded while 4-9 are closer together on a peninsula."
6. River Backpack Area — Colorado Bend State Park
"If you like to hike in the back country this is an excellent park. It is secluded and once you go through the gates expect to travel around 6~7 miles to reach the campsites."
"The trail there is almost perfectly flat you could definitely bicycle in and out. It’s nice to be right on the river and out of the hustle and bustle of a main camping area."
from $10 / night
Check Availability7. Shaffer Bend Recreation Area
"The site we had was walking distance to the sandy beach of lake Travis. Great fishing and the sand carrier up so it’s a soft bedding for the evening. Lots of tree cover to help combat the sun."
"We set up at site 15 it has an awesome view of the river/lake and it’s walking distance down to the waters edge. Great spot to fish for some bass or take a dip in the water."
8. Camp Creek Recreation Area
"If you are a pro camper you should try this place no water no electricity perfect lake view beautiful sunset and star gazing Note: Site 01 and 02 are not good for camps if you have truck bed camp or roof"
"Was planning on tent camping nearby and left a day early and all the hotel room were booked. Tried finding a tent site and no luck. Found this place online and figured I'd give it a shot."
9. Grelle - Lake Travis
"Gorgeous trails with no end to photo ops. A pups happy place! Picnic tables and bbq grills provided. Friendly park host to answer all your questions."
"As you walk into the lake (walk fast if you dont want to get bitten) you will find pockets if cooler water spouting up. Its kinda like stepping into a refridgerator but underwater."
10. Turkey Bend
"Our first night was at a site very near the neighboring sites. It wasn’t very private or peaceful. The next morning we asked to move."
"We were seeking a free campsite for us and our dogs when traveling from San Antonio to Austin, Texas and landed here for one night!"
Drive Time
- 1 hr 13 min from Austin, TX
- 1 hr 18 min from Killeen, TX
- 1 hr 37 min from San Antonio, TX
- 2 hrs 10 min from Waco, TX
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Llano, TX
46 Photos of 13 Llano Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Cedar Point Recreation Area
Moss Lake Area — Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Walnut Springs Area — Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
River Backpack Area — Colorado Bend State Park
North Area — Colorado Bend State Park Campground
Camp Creek Recreation Area
Shaffer Bend Recreation AreaC
Grelle - Lake Travist
Turkey Bend
Muleshoe Bend - Lake Travis
Cypress ValleyA
Bankersmith, TXC
Tent Camping Reviews near Llano, TX
548 Reviews of 13 Llano Campgrounds
- EElizabeth W.
TravelerBlack Rock Park
Very nice location on the lake. There are cottages and airstream trailers to rent in addition to the campsites. It’s a little close to the road in but that noise may disappear in the later hours.
- MMichelle M.Scout
Willie Washington Park
Small and clean. Bathrooms include showers. Was the only camper here. Six 50 amp full-RV hookups, a small pavilion, BBQ grills with picnic tables, and a playground. Would stay again
RJ S.ScoutFredericksburg RV Park
Tired of bs fees
This used to be a place we enjoyed coming to. Perfectly located, nice facilities and decent campground with level sites. What has got me twisted over the past several years are investors buying up the decent campgrounds, raising the prices and charging fee after fee after fee. And this one is no different. Site Lock-in Fee $10.00, it’s available or it isn’t. Stop the bs Admin Fee $5.00; for what? Online Booking Fee $6.75; I did all the work booking the site? Service Fee $7.40; for what, there was no service provided
Someone please create an app of just mom and pop campgrounds that don’t believe in all this BS and let’s get back to the way it used to be.
- SSteven H.Scout
Bending Oaks Ranch RV Resort
Trees
Bend oats has the best tree coverage of any other campground we have been too. Only on problem is that some sites have low hanging tree branches and not very many 50 amp hook ups. Other than that, beautiful place.
- BBillie K.
GuideInks Lake State Park Campground
What a beautiful place
Wow this was one thing f the most beautiful places I’ve been. We walked the trails. We watched the sun come up on devils back bone and it was amazing
- BBillie K.Guide
Dos Rios RV Park
Beautiful place
We stayed 3 nights there and the view was amazing. Great place to relax and soak up some sun.
- VValerie N.Traveler
North Area — Colorado Bend State Park Campground
Deciphering Campsites here and Site 19
This State Park is beautiful and worth the drive out to the middle of nowhere. This is not Lake Ray Roberts or Eisenhower where the park is a short drive off main roads. Going to this park is a commitment: and worth it. Hiking to the waterfall, mountain biking along the river, kayaking the leisurely Colorado River, it's all great. Vault toilets are clean. Just know it's a low maintenance park which they very clearly state everywhere. Trails are well maintained which is what I cared about. Nice to have a bench, ample parking and restroom at trailhead for the Falls.
Deciphering what's going on with these campsites, however, is a deal. I spent hours before I went trying to figure out what's going on, and still did not "get it right" so I thought I'd try and help out some.
First of all, in the south area, those campsites 1-15, yes, you definitely need a wagon. You park above, go down some stairs and a hill and the sites are in big meadows along the river. I'm not sure why anyone would camp there unless they didn't know, or really wanted to be on the river or had a huge group. It looks very hassle-ish to me and not worth being on the river.
Then you've got 17-21. I read reviews for 17, 18, 19 and 20 and was still unclear. Although in retrospect I did remember reading that 19 was an accessible site which should have tipped me off. I was debating between 19 and 20 and went with 19 for the reviewer who said it had good tree coverage (which it does, over the picnic table. Not the tent space btw, which is in direct sun.)
Pros to 19: you park right next to your campsite. And you're next to the showerhead and water. Cons to 19: Everyone else is also parked right next to your campsite. 19 is directly adjacent to the parking area - and showering area - for Sites 17-21. So when the big group of dads was leaving they powered up their noisy diesel trucks (to charge their phones I guess?) and left them running for 20 minutes while I'm right there in my little campsite 19, which at that point, feels like I'm basically camping in the parking lot!! :) I had bought a wagon - you don't need it here, it's basically a drive up. So, if you need an accessible site and can't get 36-39 or one of the 40s, this is an appropriate option. I am attaching photos.
17, 18, 20 and 21 are down the hill e.g. down the stairs (which are kind of next to the tent area for 19) to a different meadow than 1-15. 17 and 18 are in their own little meadow area, and 20 is nice, kind of in the middle and has some trees, and 21 over a way from 20. When I was there the group of four dads and four sons were camping in 18 and they had their cornhole, tents, it's a great site for a big group - e.g. as long as you're up for the walk down, preferably with a wagon or many hands, as they had. (Also, you potential 19 campers, visitors over the years have carved a path directly from 18 up the hill - in the photo in those bushes behind the picnic table-that goes through your campsite to the parking area - instead of using the stairs. So all of the boys did this and most of the dads, for convenience, right through my site. I didn't care that much, I've got a teen boy myself - the running trucks were more annoying- but if that's an issue for you, be warned.) 18 is right alongside the river. 17 is fine too, just more of a hike as it's a little farther then 18. If you had a group of like 15 people, 17 and 18 would be nice.
Then you have 40-47. Those are drive up sites with the advantage of a picnic table awning (all except 44, no awning.) Nice BUT be warned (which was a problem with my site, too, 19) from 4-8 PM - which is when you want to be relaxing at your campsite after a big day - you are directly in the sun, which means it is hot and it is buggy. Very hot, very very buggy.
In my opinion, if you're planning ahead, the BEST sites to camp here at this park back up to a cliff-face, 36-39. If you can snag one of those, for sure, do that, is my recommendation. In the late afternoon Texas sun, the cliffs block that sunlight and I sat over there (after the campsites had cleared out) it was breezy, shady, not hot and NOT BUGGY, I guess because of the wind blowing through because of the cliff-face. Very nice. AND drive up. So this is my take. Prime real estate here at CB is these four sites.
24-28 are like 40-47 except not drive up. You park and then take your (hopefully) wagon across a little grassy area to your site.
I cannot really say much about the river backpack sites. I was confused by the map which shows a parking area close to the sites. I did see a parking area at the end, near Grey Fox group, but I never saw any tents set up when I biked the River Trail. But mysteriously, later when I kayaked I DID see a couple tents set up, near the cliffs, along the river, so I really don't know how they got there. Maybe when the River Trail is up in the meadow (there's a section through the meadow, maybe a mile) then that's where the tents are down below on the river? But I didn't see signs from the trail there saying "this way to River Backpack sites." I'm sure I missed the signs bc clearly there's a way to get there that I did not see.
I hope this is helpful. Enjoy this beautiful mecca of wilderness in the middle of the hill country!
Oh, one final reminder although its said many places and I started with it, this really is not like most of the state parks us North Texans camp at up here where there's at least one shop not too far from the park entrance. There's nothing. Take EVERYTHING you need. The nearest civilization to the campground is a good 45-minute drive. At least. Really about an hour. (which is what makes it so nice and peaceful.) The park store has emergency stuff but that's it.
Andy M.
LegendPace Bend Park - Lake Travis
Great State Park.
Very nice spot. Clean and well maintained. We will be returning.
Guide to Llano
Tent camping areas near Llano, Texas range from the granite formations of Enchanted Rock to secluded spots along Lake Travis. The region experiences extreme temperature variations, with summer highs often exceeding 95°F and winter lows dropping below freezing. Most primitive camping sites require proper preparation as water sources are limited and cell service becomes spotty within 3-7 miles of many campground entrances.
What to do
Night sky viewing: At Moss Lake Area — Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, the dark skies offer exceptional stargazing opportunities. "We saw a ton of lizards and of course amazing Milky Way views," one camper noted, recommending bringing a telescope for optimal viewing.
Spring swimming: Grelle Recreation Area on Lake Travis provides a unique swimming experience with underwater springs. According to a visitor, "As you walk into the lake you will find pockets of cooler water spouting up. It's kinda like stepping into a refrigerator but underwater."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings are prime times for spotting wildlife at Colorado Bend State Park. A camper at the North Area primitive site reported, "We saw lots of animals at night!" while another mentioned, "There were so many animals that came to visit us at night! Owls, armadillos, raccoons, a couple wild hogs, gray foxes, deer, even saw a mountain lion."
What campers like
Cave exploration: Walnut Springs Area — Enchanted Rock State Natural Area offers adventurous visitors access to rock formations and caves. One reviewer recommends: "If you are adventurous see if you can find the 'caves' at the top of the rock," while another visitor warns, "Do not attempt walking to the top of Enchanted Rock at night. It's easy to get lost and you will probably fall and hurt yourself."
Lake access: Shaffer Bend Recreation Area provides direct lake access for swimming and fishing. "The site we had was walking distance to the sandy beach of Lake Travis. Great fishing and the sand carries up so it's a soft bedding for the evening," a reviewer shared. Another camper added, "Lots of tree cover to help combat the sun."
Secluded riverside camping: Camp Creek Recreation Area offers quieter camping along the river. A camper noted, "Free camping along the river. Sites are nicely spaced out," making it ideal for those seeking more separation between sites than the more popular parks provide.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Campsites at the most popular destinations fill quickly, especially during spring and fall. For Enchanted Rock, a visitor advised, "If you're coming for just a day hike, get there early as it can fill up fast," while another mentioned, "Reserve your site online well in advance."
Limited facilities: Most primitive camping areas have minimal amenities. At Cedar Point Recreation Area, "The campsite was nice and clean with a fire ring and a charcoal grill. The water was a little low but if you plan on doing a lot of swimming, bring water shoes. There are a ton of little shells that cut you everywhere they touch."
Challenging terrain: Many primitive sites require moderate hiking and preparation. In Colorado Bend's Windmill Backpack Area, a visitor reported, "Site was gorgeous and felt completely isolated. We could hear people occasionally at other campsites but other than that we did feel like we were alone."
Tips for camping with families
Choose walk-in sites for easier access: The North Area at Colorado Bend State Park Campground offers family-friendly walk-in options. "The walk-in campsites are a quick jaunt from the parking area. No need to rough it - lots of people were carrying air mattresses down the hill from the parking lot," one family noted.
Bring shade structures: Most tent sites have limited natural coverage during midday. A family camping at Grelle Recreation Area reported, "We had a great time out here. There were lots of deer, really neat to look at. The deer didn't even seem bothered by us."
Plan for seasonal events: Grenwelge Park in Llano offers special camping opportunities during community events. "During the unique community events the park is opened on a ticket basis for a limited number of campers," explained a reviewer who visited during the Llano Earth & Art Festival.
Tips from RVers
Consider tent sites for smaller rigs: Small RVs can utilize some tent-designated areas. One camper at Shaffer Bend mentioned, "Small RV and tent-dry camping" worked well for their group, adding it was "Relaxing and clean. Very windy, so no bugs!"
Limited hookups available: Most camping near Llano is primitive with no RV hookups. Bring portable power solutions and water containers. "Long ways in and out of this park and from towns so make sure you bring all you need," advised a camper at Colorado Bend State Park.
Navigation challenges: Many access roads to the best tent camping near Llano are narrow and unmarked. A visitor to Camp Creek advised, "First come first serve, pick your spot, fill out the card, put it and 25 bucks in a drop box and good to go. Very easy system."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Llano, TX?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Llano, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Llano, TX is Moss Lake Area — Enchanted Rock State Natural Area with a 4.7-star rating from 28 reviews.
What is the best site to find
tent camping near
Llano, TX?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Llano, TX?
TheDyrt.com has all 13 tent camping locations near Llano, TX, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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