Camping options near Mountain Home, Texas provide varied terrain for outdoor exploration in the Texas Hill Country. Located approximately 20 miles northwest of Kerrville at 2,000 feet elevation, the area experiences milder temperatures than other parts of Texas, though summer days can still reach the 90s. Winter nights commonly drop into the 30s, and campers should prepare for occasional freezing conditions from November through February.
What to do
River recreation: By the River RV Park features clear water perfect for wading and wildlife viewing. "We watched the ducks fly in every evening, along with a lovely blue heron. Turtles have their own little island. We watched the bats swarm the evening sky eating their fill," notes one visitor to HTR TX Hill Country.
Hiking trails: Lost Maples State Natural Area offers multiple trail options for different skill levels, with distinctive limestone formations and seasonal foliage changes. "There are so few of them (30 total sites), so book early- in order to get a fall reservation, I booked nearly a year in advance," advises a camper at Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground.
Wildlife observation: Texas Hill Country Resort provides elevated observation points for valley views and wildlife spotting. A visitor reports, "Take the hiking trail to the observation deck and see the whole valley! Beautiful views and clean sites."
What campers like
Water features: Many campgrounds offer river or creek access. At By the River RV Park, campers appreciate the multiple water environments: "Walk across small rapids and crystal clear water to another side of the park with access to the main river for canoeing, kayaking, you name it."
Quiet atmosphere: Kerrville-Schreiner Park provides a peaceful setting away from city noise. "We stayed down by the river. The road was real close to the site that we stayed in. Overall the camp grounds are nice well maintained and not stacked on top of each other," notes one visitor.
Family facilities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Guadalupe River receives high marks for its extensive recreation options. "For water attractions there is a small water park with big slides, a fun water zone for the smaller kids, and a couple of regular pools, plus one indoor pool. There's also a small arcade, a mini golf area, two bounce areas, sports areas."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location. At Lost Maples, "it's in a complete deadzone for cellular. I had absolutely zero service on my cellphone, antenna TV, or wifi/4g. Be prepared for emergencies if you hike the trails."
Reservations required: Campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. For Kerrville-Schreiner Park, campers advise: "Took the family and had a blast. Fishing, hiking, and geocaching was great. We will be back." With 60 sites, booking in advance is recommended.
Water restrictions: During drought conditions, some campgrounds may have limited water features. At Texas Hill Country Resort, one camper noted: "Now if the drought could fill the two ponds, this would be a really great getaway."
Tips for camping with families
Water-based activities: Multiple camping sites near Mountain Home, Texas offer child-friendly water recreation. A visitor to Jellystone Park reports, "Huge campsite area with so many activities your family won't be bored. Water park, mini golf, River access and so much more."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Johnson Creek RV Resort & Park offers unique animal experiences. "There are goats and mini horses you can feed so our kids loved that. Fun playground for kids, too! We'll definitely be going back."
Structured activities: Some parks offer organized events for children. At Jellystone Park: "With all the structured activities crowds stay small, even in the same areas. For example cannon ball contests divert from water slides/other pools/play structures."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Buckhorn Lake Resort offers various site configurations. "They have several types of sites: back-in, pull through, head in. Long pull through sites," reports an RVer, who adds that while internet is "spotty," the location and amenities justify the price.
Hookup availability: Most RV camping sites near Mountain Home provide full hookups, but configurations vary. At Kerrville KOA, "Pull through and back in sites. Some with shade some not. It was 98 when we stopped today, but got in the shade after 5 so it helped."
Level sites: Some parks have uneven terrain. At Cowboys and Angels RV Park and Cabins, one camper noted: "Site was very small and very unlevel to the point no way to use levelers. Very close to other RVs. Nice owner, very pleased with that."
