Tent camping at Marble Falls, Texas provides direct access to the Highland Lakes region where five consecutive reservoirs connect along the Colorado River. The area sits at approximately 800 feet elevation with limestone terrain creating diverse camping landscapes from riverfront sites to lake access points. Drought conditions frequently affect water levels throughout the area, impacting shoreline camping opportunities and water access during summer months.
What to do
Waterfront exploration: Cedar Point Recreation Area offers excellent lake access with only nine total campsites positioned right on the water. According to a visitor, "This is a small, quiet park w/ 9 total campsites all right on the lake. Sites 1-3 are larger and more secluded while 4-9 are closer together on a peninsula."
Wildlife observation: At Grelle - Lake Travis, campers frequently encounter diverse wildlife. One camper reported, "We loved the trails and all the birds and armadillos. Tried fishing along the river without much luck." Another visitor noted, "There were so many deer, really neat to look at. The deer didn't even seem bothered by us."
Spring swimming: Explore natural springs feeding into lakes and rivers. A camper at Grelle mentioned, "This was my first time swimming in a spring. As you walk into the lake (walk fast if you don't want to get bitten) you will find pockets of cooler water spouting up. It's kinda like stepping into a refrigerator but underwater."
Wildflower viewing: Spring visits to Shaffer Bend Recreation Area showcase Texas wildflowers. A reviewer notes, "This is a great little place on Lake Travis. Going in spring time is the best because of all the wildflowers. Trails are easy."
What campers like
Sandy beaches: Lake Travis shorelines feature natural sandy beaches at some campgrounds. At Shaffer Bend, a camper reported: "The site we had was walking distance to the sandy beach of lake Travis. Great fishing and the sand carrier up so it's a soft bedding for the evening."
River access: Turkey Bend provides both wooded camping and waterfront options. As one visitor noted, "Awesome place to camp! You can camp on the water or in secluded sites surrounded by trees. There are even a handful of sites that are separate and a little more private."
Site spacing: Campers appreciate campgrounds with well-spaced sites. At Tejas Park, a reviewer mentioned, "The sites are spaced out and each has a large tent pad capable of fitting multiple tents. Each spot has a table and fire pit."
Minimal light pollution: Stargazing opportunities are excellent at many Marble Falls area campgrounds. A visitor to Grelle Lake Travis shared, "It was delightful to sit in the water of Lake Travis and watch the stars on a warm Texas summer night."
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: Drought conditions significantly impact camping experiences. A Grelle visitor commented, "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!"
Self-registration process: Many campgrounds use honor system check-ins. A Camp Creek Recreation Area camper explained, "First come first serve, pick your spot, fill out the card, put it and 25 bucks in a drop box and good to go. Very easy system."
Shoreline hazards: Water access often includes natural hazards. At Cedar Point, a visitor warned, "The water was a little low but if you plan on doing a lot of swimming, bring water shoes. There are a ton of little shells that cut you everywhere they touch."
Limited amenities: Most tent sites lack modern conveniences. A camper at Shaffer Bend noted, "It is a primitive campground. The large camp area has a couple port-a-poties. At the gate entrance there are men's and women's rooms with running water. That's about 3 miles from the camp sites."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Tejas Park offers good first-time camping experiences. A parent reported, "My 5 year old wanted to go camping for the first time. This location is close enough to be near civilization, but feels remote to get the primitive camping experience."
Wildlife encounters: Children often enjoy the abundant wildlife at these campgrounds. At Tejas Park, a camper shared, "We saw about a 5 ft rattlesnake. Overall a great place!" Families should prepare children for wildlife sightings and safety protocols.
Heat management: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F. A Shaffer Bend visitor noted, "We stayed here for 4 days before Memorial Day weekend and it was hot. There are no showers or bath houses. Texas in summer can be unforgiving."
Alternative accommodations: For families hesitant about tent camping, North Area — Colorado Bend State Park offers drive-up sites with some amenities. A camper reported, "Our site had lots of shade, access to the Colorado river. Bathrooms are a quick 2 minute walk. There is a potable water station nearby."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds near Marble Falls lack full RV facilities. A Shaffer Bend camper mentioned, "Small RV and tent-dry camping. Relaxing and clean. Very windy, so no bugs!"
Access challenges: RV campers should research road conditions and site accessibility. Many roads to recreation areas include unpaved sections, tight turns, and steep grades unsuitable for larger rigs.
Generator restrictions: Most recreation areas prohibit generator use, requiring RVers to be self-sufficient with solar or battery power.
Site selection: RVers should select campsites based on shade needs and level ground. At Shaffer Bend, "Sites 1-13 closer together and more in site of each other but still ok. Great hiking and walking. Small RV plus tent for us."
