Dispersed camping opportunities near Nolanville, Texas offer budget-friendly options for outdoor enthusiasts in the central Texas region. These free camping areas sit at elevations ranging from 600-850 feet with limestone terrain characteristic of the Edwards Plateau. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing, requiring appropriate seasonal preparation.
What to do
Fishing access: Iron Bridge Park provides direct water access for anglers. "This place is kind of out of the way, around 20/30 mins of driving off of the nearest highway/interstate. The area consists of a medium sized gravel parking lot and grassy areas with covered cement picnic tables as well as a boat ramp at the end," notes reviewer Sav.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location of many dispersed camping areas creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. At Iron Bridge Park at Belton Lake, "It's far enough out of the way that the stars were beautiful, and despite being near a popular-ish waterway it did not smell like dead fish," according to one camper.
Trail exploration: The complete San Gabriel River Trail circuit offers extensive hiking opportunities. "The trail circles Lake Georgetown and is 26.2 miles. It passes through forests, grasslands, over some small hills and across a few tributaries," explains Troy W. about the San Gabriel River Trail.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Lakeside locations provide scenic views and water access. One visitor to Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites reported, "We ended up not following our AllTrails after a fork in the road heading towards the campsite, and were pretty pooped so decided to camp there off Sawyer Campsite Rd. People had clearly used the shore as a campsite before as there was a makeshift fire pit and some cleared areas for tents. Water and views were beautiful."
Weekday solitude: For those seeking quieter experiences, timing matters. "The trail is getting more and more popular with backpackers, so it is likely that you may see others on the trail. On weekends you may encounter scout troops practicing backpacking. During the weekdays you may not see a single person," notes one reviewer of the San Gabriel River Trail primitive sites.
No-cost outdoor recreation: Free camping near Nolanville offers budget-friendly options. "The park is open 24/7 and doesn't require a permit or pass of any kind," mentions a review about Iron Bridge Park, highlighting the accessibility of dispersed camping in the area.
What you should know
Pack-in water requirements: "There is no drinking water available at these sites. Pack in some water and bring a water filter to obtain more," advises a camper. The limited facilities at these primitive sites require self-sufficiency.
Bathroom situation: Toilet facilities range from rustic to nonexistent. At Iron Bridge, expect "two bathrooms (holes in the ground with four walls). Be prepared for no toilet paper," notes a camper. At Walnut Springs Primitive Campground, "No amenities; be prepared to dig cat hole, if drinking lake water be prepared to filter and sterilize."
Weather preparation: Central Texas weather can be extreme. "In the summer be aware that the combination of the temperature and the exposure can make this trail uncomfortable to hike. Take precautions, drink lots of water and stay in the shade all that you can," cautions a reviewer of the San Gabriel River sites.
Tips for camping with families
Short-hike options: For families with children, consider the more accessible camping areas. "This is possibly the easiest campgrounds on the good water trail to get to which may result in there being more people at this site than others," notes Guillermo L. about Walnut Springs Primitive Campground.
Tree coverage for shelter: When camping with children, locations with natural shade provide protection. One camper at Walnut Springs noted they "Enjoyed our stay during a thunderstorm under the big trees," highlighting the benefit of natural weather protection at certain sites.
Multiple access points: Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites can be reached from different trailheads. "The Sawyer Park site is only accessible by hiking or by a boat. It is about 5 miles from the Tejas Campground and 5 miles from Cedar Breaks Campground," explains Troy W., offering flexibility for families planning their route.
Tips from RVers
Limited vehicle access: Most dispersed camping requires either hiking or boat access. At Iron Bridge Park, reviewer Ethan B. advises, "When you get to the paved parking lot, take the gate to the right and follow the road. It does get rough, so be prepared."
Base camp options: For RV campers seeking proximity to primitive sites, parking at designated trailheads serves as a starting point. "Upon entering one of the access points, park your car for free near the trailhead. It is good to advise one of the park attendants that you will be hiking or place a note inside your car that you are hiking," recommends a reviewer of the San Gabriel River Trail.
