Jim P.
Ranger
RangerSouth Shore Park
Very nice, clean park
Very clean, well maintained park with lots of things to do! Close to town for supplies, shopping, etc. Looking forward to going back with my bride.
Camping near Lockhart, TX
246 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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Campgrounds near Lockhart, Texas range from state parks to private RV resorts, offering diverse camping experiences within a short drive of the city. Lockhart State Park Campground provides tent and RV sites with electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings in a wooded setting. Other nearby options include Palmetto State Park Campground, which features cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping areas, and private facilities like Longhorn RV Resort in Niederwald. Most campgrounds in the region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several offering cabin rentals for those seeking more comfortable accommodations.
Access to campgrounds remains consistent year-round, as the central Texas climate allows for camping in all seasons. Most established campgrounds require reservations, particularly during weekends and holidays when sites fill quickly. The terrain around Lockhart is relatively flat with some gentle hills, making most campgrounds accessible without specialized vehicles or equipment. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through September, while winter evenings can occasionally drop below freezing. Spring brings wildflowers but also the possibility of thunderstorms and rain. A review noted that Lockhart State Park is "a small park with simple facilities, but they do have a golf course and some of the best BBQ in Texas nearby."
Campers consistently mention the proximity to barbecue restaurants as a highlight of staying near Lockhart, which is known as the "BBQ Capital of Texas." Several visitors appreciate the balance of natural settings with nearby urban amenities. The campgrounds in the area typically feature moderate tree cover providing partial shade, with some sites offering views of creeks or small lakes. Facilities vary widely, from basic amenities at state parks to full hookups and resort-style accommodations at private RV parks. Water activities are limited compared to other Texas camping destinations, though some parks have small swimming pools or access to modest waterways. A recent review highlighted that "Lockhart State Park is a fairly small park, but it still has quite a bit to offer" including fishing spots, a swimming pool, and short scenic trails along creeks and streams.
Best Campgrounds near Lockhart (246)
1. McKinney Falls State Park Campground
"This state park is a little outside of Austin near the airport."
"We were not really interested in seeing Austin, but the limestone rock formations were amazing and the variety of trails made sure there was something for everyone."
from $20 - $86 / night
Check Availability2. Lockhart State Park Campground
"Lockhart State Park So first the best, in my opinion, thing about Lockhart SP; it’s a few miles from Lockhart City where there is some DELICIOUS food!! Smitty’s is my favorite!"
"So everyone knows that Lockhart has some of the best BBQ in Texas, but it is a lot more than that. Lockhart State park is a fairly small park, but it still has quite a bit to offer."
from $20 - $24 / night
Check Availability3. Palmetto State Park Campground
"Campsite Review: Palmetto State Park is a tranquil campground located in Central Texas."
"We stayed in campsite 24 which backs up to the little lake. It has running water but not electricity. They had just finished renovating the showers on this side of the park."
from $12 - $65 / night
Check Availability4. San Marcos River Resort
"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."
"Stayed in 2020 loved the view as well as the surrounding area. Only issue was the park employees across the river, but even their guest were wonderful"
5. Longhorn RV Resort
"Clean bathrooms, clean pool/hot tub, clean laundry, well stocked store, gated community, great walking trail around a big lake and near big long horn cows."
"It's away from the interstates and expressway, but close enough to run and get supplies whenever you need. It is a bit noisy, but nothing too bad."
6. Pecan RV Park
from $42 - $142 / night
Check Availability7. Austin Lone Star RV Community
"Very easy access to downtown Austin, about a 15 minute drive. Full hookups. Extremely clean, well maintained and updated. Most spots are pull through, with a few back in spots on one side."
"This is the third campground we’ve stayed at, and it’s conveniently located just 15 minutes from the city, with grocery stores and other essential shops nearby."
from $58 - $80 / night
Check Availability8. Gracies Ranch in Lockhart
"I had the pleasure of speaking with Ryan about Gracies Ranch, not only do they have a great location near two major cities, but they have been hosting stays on their ranch for a while and are ready to"
from $30 - $45 / night
Check Availability9. The Old El Camino Motorcourt & RV Resort
"The main entrance is super easy to access from Hwy 21(there is a light, and a nice turn lane). There is another side entrance on Grist Mill Rd."
from $40 - $925 / night
Check Availability10. Pecan Park Riverside RV Park
"Right next to San Marcos river! Really nice only down thing Is LOTS OF RULES! $5 per guest even if they aren’t staying the night... other than that staff pretty friendly and good location."
from $60 / night
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Drive Time
- 35 min from Austin, TX
- 1 hr 4 min from San Antonio, TX
- 1 hr 18 min from Killeen, TX
- 1 hr 28 min from Victoria, TX
Recent Camping Photos near Lockhart, TX
227 Photos of 246 Lockhart Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Recent Reviews near Lockhart, TX
900 Reviews of 246 Lockhart Campgrounds
Gillian C.
ScoutSon’s Blue River Camp
BEDBUGS in the cabins
BEDBUGS. I had a terrible stay at Son’s Blue River Camp. There are bedbugs in the log cabin. I had to pack up and leave the cabin in the middle of the night to find a hotel. I have video evidence of the bedbugs in the bed and I was bitten multiple times. I also believe they were aware there were bedbugs on the property and passed it off as a simple “maintenance issue”.
In addition to this huge problem, they are also unorganized. The staff didn’t properly inform me about changes to my reservation. I was sent a last minute email with vital information that they should have confirmed with me via phone call or text.
They also allowed me to buy a tubing/kayaking/shuttle wristband during my reservation. When I spoke to an employee on the phone about the problems with the property, she informed me that they were not even operating the shuttle/tubing during the week because it was “off season”.
I tried emailing the property as soon as this happened and did not get a response. I also called twice to speak to the manager about it. The manager, Rachel, never called me back. Do not stay at Son’ Blue River Camp.
It was a 0/10 experience.
- PPiccolo M.
TravelerPecan Park Riverside RV Park
Great location on the river, nice staff!
We have stayed at Pecan Park several times, we love the river being so close and drop our tubes in upstream and float down. Then we chill in our chairs in the water by the shore in the shade, as do many people from the park, and watch the tubers come down. During the day it gets super busy on the river, which is entertaining!
- JJake J.Scout
Stone Creek RV Park
Nice park. Ugly office staff.
Jackie at the front desk needs to go. RUDE.
- CColeen B.
GuideRiverbend RV Park
Right off I-10 East of San Antonio
Nice clean RV park. They’ve changed their name to Patriot RV Park. And yes, they offer discounts to military members. Some of the sites are pretty close to each other but some have a little more space. Full hookups. We just need a place to hook up and sleep so it’s fine. Huge dog park, pool, bathrooms with showers and a shared kitchen area.
Adam F.ScoutRiver Road Camp
Scam artist!
I recently visited this campground on July 3rd and when I got to the gate to discuss accessing the campground to meet up with a cousin who had reserved a spot I was greeted by a old Caucasian man who came off a little rude. I asked if they provide a military discount since I am in fact a disabled veteran and his response was no. Then I asked if I can just pay for a daily pass since I was only going to be there that evening and half the day the next day being the 4th of July and his response was no I can only purchase a 3 day pass at$12 per adult. Well I ended having to pay$99.62 to gain access to this campground and if you do the math 2 adults at$12 a person for 3 days does not equal$99.62. This place is a scam and take advantage of disabled military veterans! I would give this place a negative number of stars if there was that option!
- BBillie K.Guide
Cedar Sage Camping Area — Guadalupe River State Park
Beautiful
We stayed over night in one of there electric and water camp sites. Great walking trails down to the water. Bath house was nice and clean. We enjoyed our night there and we regret not staying longer.
- JJeff M.Scout
The Old El Camino Motorcourt & RV Resort
Nice but not nice
Come we’ll get you signed in and help get you hooked up. They switched me 3 times. The shire had problems , then I thought it was me, Ty hey moved me again. I needed help to get car off trailer “ no problem” , “ I gave no time sorry “ leave me on a can’t do this by myself, I need help. We can’t. Tomorrow morning I’ll have my ex-officer husband help first thing. No power for the night. Food gone bad. No husband came ever to help. Mechanic $200. For a shore power was tripping. Not my fault. Still paid it. Oh my god. If you didn’t follow . Think how I felt
- Yasmin S.Ranger
McKinney Falls State Park Campground
Mckinney State Park
We didnt experience the campsites as this was a stop on the 6 hour route trip back to East Texas.
We did roam the grounds and check it out. Campsites and Tolietries looked upkept. Standard sites for State Parks. Had a more urban vibe to it but thats likely it was near the city of austin.
When we went to night explore b4 leaving there were two sets of couples leaving. One in a austin vibe van ;).
We ended up having the location all to ourselves and got some cool clips for the brief stop.
Guide to Lockhart
Camping sites near Lockhart, Texas generally provide year-round access due to the region's moderate climate. The terrain features gentle rolling hills with elevation ranging from 400-500 feet above sea level. Winter overnight temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing from December through February, while summer camping often requires consideration of heat management strategies as daytime temperatures routinely exceed 95°F.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: McKinney Falls State Park offers two distinct swimming holes with varying water depths. "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," notes one visitor to McKinney Falls State Park Campground.
Golfing opportunities: Play a 9-hole golf course at Lockhart State Park for an affordable rate. "Cheap Golf. We golfed 18 one of the days, fun layout, not in the best shape right now but the price was right. With the Texas pass you also get a discount on golf and anything else you buy," reports a camper at Lockhart State Park Campground.
Hiking through unique ecosystems: Experience dwarf palmetto plants at Palmetto State 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. We decided next trip we would rent a canoe and head up the river," shares a visitor to Palmetto State Park.
What campers like
Proximity to barbecue destinations: Lockhart's reputation as a barbecue capital means easy access to renowned restaurants. "Small park close to town and be sure to get some BBQ, lots of choices in town!" recommends a camper at Lockhart State Park Campground.
Night sky viewing: Firefly displays create memorable camping experiences in the area. "A fun little part of the trip was the HUGE amount of fireflies we saw- very cool! Simple park with a couple unique features- seems like it would be a great place for a family gathering," according to a visitor at Lockhart State Park.
River access for cooling off: The San Marcos River provides relief from summer heat at several campgrounds. "Our side of the park was along the river and had great shade. Great river access and space to sit and watch the tubers go by," notes a guest at Pecan RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal variations in water levels: During drought periods, water features may be affected. "Nice pond a little low due to drought," reports a camper at Longhorn RV Resort.
Site spacing considerations: Many campgrounds have variable site spacing between loops. "Sites on the outer loop are spaced out a bit more then the sites on the inner loop," notes a visitor to Palmetto State Park Campground.
Water quality differences: Some campgrounds have distinctive water characteristics. "Water had a sulfur smell," reports one camper about Palmetto State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options for children: Several parks offer swimming facilities designed for various skill levels. "There's an extinct volcano nearby called Pilot Knob. That accounts for the flat rock near the main falls... Please be careful swimming. If you can't swim, please refrain or wear a life jacket," advises a visitor to McKinney Falls State Park.
Playground accessibility: Some campgrounds feature playgrounds positioned near family-friendly campsites. "We brought our 7 year old daughter and she really enjoyed playing at the playground. Our site was conveniently located in front of the playground and next to the shower/bathroom/laundry facility," shares a camper at San Marcos River Resort.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Evening wildlife spotting creates memorable experiences for children. "Coyotes howled every night. The only wildlife we saw were squirrels," notes a Palmetto State Park visitor about the ambient natural sounds.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Site conditions vary across campgrounds in the area. "The sites are not super level and our site #2 sloped back. Decent hiking trails and a creek with fish runs through the park," shares an RVer at Lockhart State Park.
Tree clearance considerations: Some campgrounds have vegetation that may impact larger RVs. "Getting in and out of the park was smooth for the most part just watch some overhanging limbs," advises a visitor to Austin Lone Star RV Community.
Utility connection placement: RVers should be prepared for varying hookup configurations. "My only real gripe is that the septic connection at my spot is at the same height as my RV connection - no matter what I do, I can't get it to have a slope. Most sites are better, but the connection at all of them is raised up about 6 inches," reports a camper at Longhorn RV Resort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Lockhart, TX?
What camping is available near Lockhart, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, Lockhart, TX offers a wide range of camping options, with 246 campgrounds and RV parks near Lockhart, TX and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Lockhart, TX?
Which is the most popular campground near Lockhart, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lockhart, TX is McKinney Falls State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 85 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lockhart, TX?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lockhart, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Lockhart, TX.
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