The Guadalupe River and Canyon Lake create an ideal backdrop for glamping near New Braunfels, Texas. Located in the heart of Texas Hill Country at elevations ranging from 600-900 feet, the region features limestone bluffs and cypress-lined waterways. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F, making water activities essential for comfort during peak season, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with temperatures in the 70s-80s.
What to do
Riverside fishing access: At Summit Vacation Resort, water levels affect fishing conditions throughout the year. Campers can access the Guadalupe River via steps leading down to shallow, slow-moving water. "River access is down a series of steps. Water is beautifully shallow and slow moving," notes Kathy S.
Miniature golf and recreation: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Canyon Lake offers diverse activities beyond water recreation. "From the water park, pools, bouncy pillow, games, hay ride and the mini golf," reports C&J F., making it suitable for families seeking structured recreation options.
Shuttle service to concerts: Mystic Quarry provides transportation to nearby entertainment venues. "The shuttle service to Whitewater Amphitheater was awesome," shares TJ S., allowing campers to enjoy live music without driving. The campground's location creates convenient access to regional entertainment.
What campers like
Natural springs: Camp Huaco Springs offers unique water features beyond river access. "They even have a natural spring! People who work here are professional and very nice," reports Sara R., highlighting the distinctive geological features that complement the river experience.
Clean facilities: Cleanliness ranks high among camper priorities at Potter's Creek Park. "The bathrooms were very clean and I did use the nice roomy showers they have," writes Sheila C. Regular maintenance creates a comfortable camping experience even during peak seasons.
Level camping sites: At Cranes Mill Park, site conditions receive positive reviews. "Clean and quit. 35$ and a rather small park. Some sites have a shade. All hookups," notes Len L., emphasizing the practical aspects of comfortable camping that matter to visitors.
What you should know
Gate access restrictions: Summit Vacation Resort enforces specific rules regarding property access. "Gates close at 10pm and I saw the staff circle by a few times throughout the evening and morning to check in on us," reports Stephanie G., indicating security measures that affect late arrivals.
Reservation structure: Son's Guadalupe uses a different reservation system than typical campgrounds. "They rent everything a-la-carte, so if you plan to stay the night you need to rent a cabana or covered picnic table during the day," explains Byron R., noting this differs from standard camping arrangements.
Noise considerations: Traffic creates sound issues at some campgrounds. "The access road is right beside the camp sights. Lots of motorcycle traffic at all hours," reports Michael C. about Camp Huaco Springs, indicating that sound-sensitive campers should select sites away from roadways.
Tips for camping with families
Weather planning: Spring visits offer comfortable conditions for family activities. "Decided to head up for a quick trip and we had the most relaxing time. Although water is low there were folks who fished," notes Stephanie G. about Cranes Mill Park, indicating that water levels vary seasonally.
Security considerations: Family groups appreciate visible staff presence. "I let the office know it was just us ladies and they surveyed the area to see how many folks were staying in the area to make me feel more at ease," reports Stephanie G., highlighting the benefit of communicating specific needs to staff.
Site selection priorities: For glamping experiences, proximity to facilities matters. "I would pay the $15 and choose a site close to the Hill Country Hall and the waterpark, and save the $62 a day on the golf cart," advises Ashley C. about Mystic Quarry, noting that strategic site selection can reduce transportation costs.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal planning: RVers should consider timing when visiting popular New Braunfels glamping destinations. "When I say walk in, I mean that you park and then walk about 10 yards to your site," explains Jason G. about Camp Huaco Springs, describing the practical logistics of equipment transport.
Site drainage: Weather conditions affect site usability at some locations. "Sites are a good size, some bigger than ours and mostly well drained. Our site 21 could use more gravel or mulch but most other sites look like they had new gravel and mulch added to them," reports Karen B. about Mystic Quarry, providing specific site recommendations.
Hookup availability: Full-service hookups aren't universal at all glamping locations. "Gravel and mostly level, very few sites were unlevel. You're surrounded by hills so it is nice and quiet. They are full hook up sites," notes Laura H., describing the practical RV amenities that enhance the glamping experience near New Braunfels.
