Camping options near Marble Falls offer diverse outdoor experiences in the Texas Hill Country, where elevations range from 800 to 1,100 feet. The region features a moderate climate with summer temperatures averaging 94°F and winter lows around 44°F. Several campgrounds provide direct lake access with limestone shorelines that create unique swimming and fishing opportunities.
What to Do
Water recreation at Lake Travis: At Pace Bend Park - Lake Travis, campers can enjoy cliff jumping and swimming. "My favorite part about this campsite is the ability to cliff jump into a lake. I love the water and this campsite was perfect for me," shares Aaron S. The park features multiple swimming areas along its limestone shorelines.
Hiking through Hill Country terrain: Pedernales Falls State Park Campground offers extensive trail systems with varied difficulty levels. "Lots of hiking trails here. Good swimming. The falls are pretty. You can walk upriver from the falls, bouldering for quite a long way. Classic hill country terrain," notes Emily M. The park's trails wind through juniper and oak woodlands with elevation changes of 300-400 feet.
Primitive camping experiences: Camp Creek Recreation Area provides secluded sites along the Colorado River. "Free camping along the river. Sites are nicely spaced out. River access for boating," explains Linette G. Sites require no reservations but have a $25 fee collected through a self-service drop box system.
What Campers Like
Private, spacious sites: At McKinney Falls State Park, campers appreciate the site layout. "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," says Steph C. Most sites include 30-amp electrical hookups, water connections, and fire rings.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Grelle - Lake Travis offers chances to see native Texas wildlife. "Super clean park, 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," mentions Melissa P. Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing times.
Natural swimming holes: Krause Springs provides unique swimming experiences in 68-degree spring-fed waters. "This place was wonderful. Spent hours just floating in the springs and natural spring pool. Kids can jump off the small Cliffside or fly on the rope swing," reports Brandi W. The swimming areas include both man-made and natural pools fed by 32 springs on the property.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons (March-October). "With reservations made 153 days prior to arriving for our 4-night stay, we encountered confusion by a rude check-in clerk," notes one Napunani at Black Rock Park. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance through Texas Parks and Wildlife.
Water level considerations: Camp Creek Recreation Area experiences significant water level fluctuations. "Nice place. Easy drop box.. Expensive for no amenities," writes Mike L. During drought periods, waterfront sites may be far from actual water access points.
Primitive facilities at some locations: Several campgrounds offer limited amenities. "Primitive sites are a few miles hike in. Very doable. Beware of cayotes and curious deer," warns Jimmy R. about Pedernales Falls. Many primitive sites lack running water, requiring campers to pack in their own supplies.
Tips for Camping with Families
Bring appropriate footwear: Proper water shoes are essential for rocky swimming areas. "Bring your water shoes," advises Shelly S. from Pedernales Falls State Park. "You can backpack in to some of the primitive sites or stay in the HUGE camping spots. The sites are mostly private and have tent areas as well as pads for campers."
Consider seasonal variations: Temperatures vary significantly throughout the year. "Avoid July if possible and don't sleep with food in your tent," recommends R W. from Pedernales Falls. "The falls are beautiful, lots of trees to help provide shade, and typical nice state park trails for the area."
Look for educational opportunities: McKinney Falls State Park Campground offers historical and geological learning experiences. "There's an extinct volcano nearby called Pilot Knob. That accounts for the flat rock near the main falls," explains Emily M. The park features interpretive trails and remnants of a 19th-century homestead.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations at some parks: Many glamping sites near Marble Falls have restrictions on large rigs. "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," cautions Brandi W. from Krause Springs. Most sites accommodate RVs under 35 feet in length.
Hookup availability varies: RV campers should research utility connections before arrival. "The camp ground is wonderful. Very spread out and wooded for privacy between the campsites. Hook ups for both water and electricity, if needed," shares Kaitlyn M. about Pedernales Falls State Park. Some primitive sites offer no hookups, while developed campgrounds typically provide water and 30/50-amp electrical connections.
