Cabin camping near Lockhart, Texas offers opportunities for water recreation, historic exploration, and nature hiking within a 30-mile radius of town. Located in Central Texas about 30 miles southeast of Austin, the area features several state parks and private camping facilities with elevation ranging from 400-600 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach the high 90s while winter nights can drop into the 30s.
What to do
Swimming at waterfalls: McKinney Falls State Park has two swimming areas at Upper and Lower Falls formed by volcanic rock formations. "There's an extinct volcano nearby called Pilot Knob. That accounts for the flat rock near the main falls... Bluebonnets are amazing here in Spring. Please be careful swimming. If you can't swim, please refrain or wear a life jacket," advises Emily M. from McKinney Falls State Park.
Paddling options: Several cabin sites offer direct river access for kayaking. At Son's River Ranch, day passes include unlimited kayaking and tubing. "We tubed and kayaked. They have a wristband you can buy for the day that is good for unlimited kayaking and tubing, we did both! The trip took about 2 hours by tube and an hour by kayak. They have shuttles to bring you back," notes Karin R.
Historic sites exploration: State parks preserve Civilian Conservation Corps structures beyond the cabins themselves. Bastrop State Park features historic buildings and a nature center. "Right outside Austin with lots of easy trails, historic buildings, nature center, woods, pool. Kids got to do the junior ranger program which they loved," shares Kim B.
What campers like
Proximity to Austin: Cabin accommodations offer quick access to city amenities while maintaining natural settings. "This is such a wonderful state park! Great hiking trails, two swimming holes, well spaced out camping sites with electricity and water. We stayed here because it was close to the airport and had a flight to catch. It was only a 9 min drive," notes Eat · See · RV L. about McKinney Falls State Park.
Tropical-feeling environments: Some cabin areas feature unusual vegetation creating distinctive ecosystems. "We came here on a day trip and were very pleased with the park. It didn't really feel like Texas as we walked through the almost tropical looking forest. We enjoyed the lake and rented a paddle boat," explains Sara S. from Palmetto State Park.
River access points: Cabins situated near water provide easy recreational opportunities. "Our site was conveniently located in front of the playground and next to the shower/bathroom/laundry facility. The site was large and came with a picnic table. One of our favorite things to do was walk along the river and explore the trails," shares Derek H. at San Marcos River Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal popularity variations: Reservations for cabins should be made 3-6 months in advance during peak season. "We stayed for a week in December. Traveling with a 40' Class A RV. 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," explains Dan H. about winter conditions.
Wildlife awareness: Campers should properly store food and maintain awareness of local wildlife. "You might see deer, raccoons, armadillos and occasionally snakes. All of the wildlife should be left undisturbed. Except for the fish. Fishing is allowed in the park and one will not need a state fishing license when fishing within the park," notes Troy W.
Water conditions: River and creek levels vary seasonally affecting swimming and paddling options. "The water was warm, and it was perfect for new swimmers with floaties and advanced swimmers. There's a place where you can jump off the rocks into the water," mentions Steph C. about summer conditions at McKinney Falls State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Select cabins near play facilities for convenience with children. "We spent a couple of nights at this park. We loved the water falls and the sites are far apart with trees and shrubs surrounding them," explains Kingrex49 M. about the family-friendly layout at McKinney Falls.
Junior Ranger programs: State parks offer educational opportunities for children during summer months. "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. Really nice group campgrounds if that's your vibe," shares Michael C. about Bastrop State Park.
Swimming safety measures: Various water depths require appropriate supervision at different cabin locations. "Sites were plenty big with electric and running water. The great part is the swimming. The water was warm, and it was perfect for new swimmers with floaties and advanced swimmers," notes Steph C.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Some cabin sites accommodate RVs better than others with varying pad sizes. "Very nice campground, very secure, codes used to enter gate, pool, showers/restrooms & 24hour laundry room. Highly recommend this campground, staff was very nice," advises Jeannine D. about Austin Lone Star RV Community.
Hookup variations: Electrical service varies between 30-50 amp depending on location and cabin type. "I like the trees and shade available, very woodsy," notes Alice R. about the tree coverage that can impact satellite reception.
Seasonal flooding awareness: Spring rains can affect cabin and RV site conditions in low-lying areas. "Great campground within miles of downtown Austin. Two scenic waterfalls for frolicking in warm weather camping. Many tree ringed rv sites for privacy. Well marked hiking trails and grills for day use," explains Steve K.
