Marble Falls camping options range from lakefront sites with water access to Hill Country settings with primitive facilities. Most campgrounds in the region maintain a consistent temperature range of 50-80°F in spring and fall, though summer heat regularly reaches 95-100°F. The limestone terrain creates varied elevation changes throughout area campgrounds, with many sites positioned on hillsides overlooking Lake Travis or the Colorado River system.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Camp Creek Recreation Area features hiking trails that connect camping areas to scenic overlooks. "Free camping along the river. Sites are nicely spaced out. River access for boating," notes Linette G. about Camp Creek Recreation Area.
Swimming in natural springs: Visitors can enjoy multiple swimming areas at Muleshoe Bend. "The hiking is ok. Most of it is pretty flat, but walking along the lake or along the river offers some nice views. Along the river are a few waterfalls which are pretty," shares Brian V. about Inks Lake State Park Campground.
Mountain biking: The trail system at Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area supports both hiking and biking. "There's a trail system that weaves around in a big circle mainly used by mountain bikes but perfectly good for hiking too," explains Emily M.
What campers like
Water recreation options: Lake Travis access points provide opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. "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," writes Emily M. about Pedernales Falls State Park Campground.
Spacious campsites: Many sites offer separation from neighboring campers. "The sites are mostly private and have tent areas as well as pads for campers. You could fit a group of people all one one site with room to spare! Well kept," states Shelly S.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse animal species. "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," describes Amy H. about Grelle Recreation Area.
What you should know
Flash flood awareness: The Hill Country experiences rapid water level changes. "Made me aware of how serious flash flooding is here. Respect weather warnings!" cautions Faith S.
Limited water access in drought periods: Lake levels fluctuate significantly. "I brought my family of four here for our first solo camping trip with two littles and we loved it! The drought caused the lake to be pretty dried up so our water front view didn't have much water!" reports Taylor about Grelle Recreation Area.
Plant hazards: Native vegetation includes stickers and burrs. "The only negative items I can mention are the various amounts of stickers everywhere we got plenty on our ankles and our hands," warns Steve L. about Shaffer Bend Recreation Area.
Noise considerations: Boat traffic affects waterfront sites. "If you stay at sites 1-12 you are right next to the boat ramp where people will be loading/unloading at all hours of the night. Its 5 am currently and I have been bombarded with diesel engines and bright lights directly into my campsite since 3 am," shares Shainna M.
Tips for camping with families
Select shaded sites: During summer months, tree cover is essential. "Our stay was pretty quite and there's a decent amount of space between camp grounds. It was $25/night and included a charcoal grill, a fire pit, and a picnic table. My campsite was pretty shaded and the outhouse wasn't too far of a walk," describes Kris V.
Visit during spring wildflower season: April offers special scenery. "This is a great little place on Lake Travis. Going in the spring time is the best because of all the wildflowers. Trails are easy. Campsites are clean with a fire pit and a grill," recommends Candice C. about Shaffer Bend.
Seek out dedicated kid-friendly swimming areas: Some locations have safer water entry points for children. "The best swimming place is the Devil's Waterhole. There are some rocks on the far side that people climb up on to jump off of," suggests Brian V.
Tips for RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Check clearance requirements. "GREAT PARK, HAS A MARINA, GREAT LAKE TO KAYAK, WONDERFUL STORE. SITES ARE CLEAN BUT A BIT CHALLENGING TO BACK INTO, INCLINE AND COULD BE BIGGER. NO PULL THROUGHS," warns Alice R.
Tree clearance awareness: Campgrounds have varying overhead clearance. "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. about Krause Springs.
Off-road recreation for RV campers: Multiple parks offer trail systems near RV sites. "This is an off roaders enthusiast's oasis. With 9ver 2200 acres of full size offroad trails there is surely something there for every vehicle and skill level. From mild stock level all the way to extreme rock crawling you can find it at HFAP," explains Chad L. about Hidden Falls Adventure Park.
