Best Campgrounds near New Braunfels, TX
Riverside camping dominates the New Braunfels landscape, with multiple established campgrounds offering direct access to the Guadalupe River. The region includes over a dozen developed campgrounds like Camp Huaco Springs, KL Ranch Camp Cliffside, and Lazy L & L Campground, all situated along riverfront property within 20 miles of downtown. Accommodation options range from basic tent sites to full-service RV hookups, with several properties including cabin rentals and glamping alternatives. Most campgrounds provide electricity, water hookups, and sanitary dumps for recreational vehicles, while also maintaining designated tent camping areas with picnic tables and fire rings.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact availability throughout the area, particularly during summer months when river activities draw crowds. Reservations become essential during warm weather weekends, with many campgrounds reaching capacity quickly. The river-centric nature of camping means water levels can affect the camping experience depending on upstream dam releases and recent rainfall. Facilities vary widely among properties, with some offering complete amenities including showers, restrooms and camp stores, while others provide more basic services. Road access generally requires no special vehicles, with most campgrounds easily accessible from main thoroughfares. According to one visitor, "The real reason to visit this campground is the quick and easy access to both the town and the river. You can walk or drive to restaurants, grocery stores, banks, etc."
Waterfront sites receive consistently high ratings from campers seeking direct river access for tubing, swimming and fishing. Many campgrounds offer tube rentals and shuttle services that transport guests upstream to float back to their campsites. Shaded camping areas are highly sought after, especially during hot summer months, with several reviews mentioning the importance of site selection for shade coverage. Noise levels can vary significantly, with riverside campgrounds along River Road experiencing motorcycle and weekend traffic. One camper noted, "If you want quiet look elsewhere, right on river road and motorcycles ride up and down!" Most campgrounds maintain moderate to good bathroom and shower facilities, though some reviews indicate facilities at certain locations could use updating. Proximity to New Braunfels provides convenient access to grocery stores, restaurants, and attractions like Schlitterbahn Waterpark.
