The Texas Hill Country near Lockhart sits at elevations between 400-600 feet, characterized by limestone bluffs and gentle slopes. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F, while spring brings moderate rainfall that creates ideal conditions for riverside camping. Winter camping remains viable with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing, though occasional cold fronts can bring unexpected temperature drops.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: Lockhart State Park offers multiple shorter trails ideal for novice hikers or families with young children. "It has different hiking trails to explore and tons of nice picnic areas," notes Erica H., who recommends the park for first-time hikers. The trails provide access to scenic overlooks of the surrounding hill country.
Visit nearby BBQ destinations: Lockhart is renowned for its barbecue restaurants, with multiple award-winning establishments within easy driving distance of local campgrounds. "Lockhart State park is a cute little park with a 9 hole golf course, a swimming pool and nearby #1 Texas barbeque," explains Lisa E. The town's BBQ joints make for perfect day trips from your camping base.
Try golfing: Lockhart State Park Campground features a unique 9-hole golf course that offers affordable rates and a relaxed atmosphere. "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," shares Cathy J., highlighting the value for campers.
Seasonal firefly viewing: Spring camping at Lockhart offers a natural light show. "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," reports Sara S. The firefly displays typically peak between April and June.
What campers like
Swimming options: While the San Marcos River provides natural swimming areas, Lake Bastrop North Shore Park offers a more controlled swimming environment. "There's also a community space in the center of the park which has picnic tables, a fishing pier, open water access and an area that is roped off for swimming," notes Troy W. The designated swimming areas provide safer options for families with young children.
River access for fishing: The area's waterways support various fishing opportunities without requiring special permits within park boundaries. "I came today to fish for trout. The park has 4G network with T-Mobile cell service. It worked pretty well," shares Red S. about Lockhart State Park. The creek that runs through the park is regularly stocked with fish.
Proximity to Austin: McKinney Falls State Park Campground provides convenient glamping near Lockhart with quick access to urban amenities. "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," explains Eat · See · RV L., emphasizing the park's accessibility.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers value the relative calm of Lockhart-area campgrounds compared to more crowded destinations. "This campground is located in my home county. We enjoy this park a lot though it is quite small so you can hike the trails and see the sites within the day. Really nice location though tucked away in a quiet part of the county!" writes Christina A.
What you should know
Flash flooding concerns: Central Texas waterways can rise rapidly during storms. "Respect weather warnings!" cautions Faith S. at Pedernales Falls State Park Campground, adding that the park "made me aware of how serious flash flooding is here." Always check weather forecasts and have evacuation plans when camping near rivers.
Limited site availability: Reservations are essential, especially during spring and fall peak seasons. "The park only has six campsites left. The rest have been converted to rentals of Airstreams or large tents for $150+ a night," reports Christopher P. about Lake Bastrop, highlighting the transition toward more glamping-focused options.
Seasonal water levels: Late summer can bring lower water levels to creeks and rivers. "The creek could use a better crossing at one spot from one trail to another, but it's passable in low water times," notes Emily M. about Lockhart State Park. Check recent rainfall reports before planning water activities.
Recovery from wildfires: Some areas are still recovering from past wildfires. "It is heartbreaking to see all the damage to the Pines, due to the wildfires, but it is recovering well," shares Jennifer J. about Bastrop State Park. The regrowth process provides educational opportunities about forest regeneration.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety precautions: Take appropriate safety measures at natural swimming areas. "Please be careful swimming. If you can't swim, please refrain or wear a life jacket. There have been several drownings here," warns Emily M. about McKinney Falls State Park. Life jackets are strongly recommended for children at all water sites.
Kid-friendly swimming spots: Austin Lone Star RV Community offers controlled swimming environments that work well for families with children of varying swimming abilities. "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," recommends Steph C.
Cool-weather camping: For families with small children, spring and fall camping provides more comfortable temperatures. "During our outing the temperatures reached 105F, but we were having so much fun that it really didn't matter," shares Troy W. about Lake Bastrop South Shore Park. Still, moderate weather periods offer easier camping conditions for young children.
Activity planning: Balance outdoor activities with downtime to prevent overtiring children. "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," notes Michael C. Group sites at many area parks provide space for children to play while adults socialize.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites away from highways when possible. "Getting in and out of the park was smooth for the most part just watch some overhanging limbs," advises Dan H. about McKinney Falls State Park. Many campsites accommodate larger RVs, but some parks have specific loops better suited for big rigs.
Hookup details: Pecan Park Riverside RV Park provides full hookups close to San Marcos. "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," notes Danarys E. The park's rules help maintain the quiet atmosphere many RVers seek.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven sites at some parks. "The sites are also not super level and our site #2 sloped back," mentions Karl W. about Lockhart State Park. Bringing additional leveling blocks can help address this common issue at hill country campgrounds.
Off-season advantages: Winter camping offers significant benefits. "We were here 2/8/21 to 2/13/21. We had 2 decent days and then the bad weather began," reports Cathy J. about Lockhart State Park. Despite weather risks, winter months provide much better availability and fewer crowds at popular glamping sites near Lockhart, Texas.
