Equestrian camping near Nolanville, Texas sits within the limestone hills of Central Texas, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F between June and September. The area receives approximately 35 inches of annual rainfall, primarily in spring and fall. Lake Belton and Stillhouse Hollow Lake provide water-based recreation options with fluctuating water levels depending on seasonal rainfall patterns.
What to Do
Trail riding at Shaffer Bend: Available for horses at this Lake Travis recreation area. Campsites accommodate equestrian visitors with space for trailers. "The campsite is good for equestrians. If you're a kayaker you can put in here and travel down and take out elsewhere," notes Kyle G. from Shaffer Bend Recreation Area.
Mountain biking on maintained trails: The region offers multiple trail systems suited for various skill levels. "With 10 miles of hiking/biking trails that are mostly under tree cover, the park offers a nice amount of day hiking," reports Tim W., who stayed at Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area.
Fishing from the shore: Bass and catfish are common catches at Lake Waco parks. "Lake Waco may not be the cleanest or prettiest lake, but when it comes to fishing, you can bring in a good amount of catfish and have a fish-fry to make up for it!" says Brittany S., who visited Reynolds Creek.
What Campers Like
Spacious sites with amenities: Many campgrounds feature developed sites with basic facilities. "The campsites are well maintained with asphalt parking, a covered picnic table, and nice gravel area. We stayed in Site 3 which was waterfront, but no water access, however was shaded and spacious," explains Lisa H. from Live Oak Ridge.
Private waterfront locations: Lakeside camping spots provide tranquil settings away from crowds. "We stayed on a spot right by the lake. The water was beautiful and it was very quiet. We loved everything about this spot," shares Lauren Z., who camped at Speegleville Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities enhance the camping experience. "The bathrooms are very clean and the park rangers are very helpful if you have any questions about what is near or things to do," notes Brittany S., describing facilities at Speegleville Park.
What You Should Know
Limited water access: Despite lakefront locations, not all sites provide easy water entry points. "High banks made it impossible to get to the water. No swimming area or fishing area that we found," reports Shane M. about his experience at Reynolds Creek.
Seasonal challenges: Summer heat and insects can be intense in this region. "We stayed here for 4 days before Memorial Day weekend and it was hot. There are no showers or bath houses," warns Kyle G. from Shaffer Bend Recreation Area.
Bathroom facilities vary: Some parks offer full facilities while others have minimal options. "The bathrooms need some work, but they do the job. There is no store at the campground, but there is a dollar general located in Speegleville about 4 minutes away," explains a reviewer at Reynolds Creek.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "There is a play ground in the center of the park in a field of beautiful yellow flowers," notes Olivia, who stayed at Live Oak Ridge with her family.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Area parks offer chances to observe native animals. "Going in the spring time is the best because of all the wildflowers. Trails are easy. Campsites are clean with a fire pit and a grill," recommends Candice C. about Shaffer Bend Recreation Area.
Educational exhibits: Wildlife experiences within driving distance provide learning opportunities. "The drive through safari is an extra $15 per car and worth it," notes Chris P. about Buena Vista Wildlife Safari and RV Park, offering an alternative day trip from Nolanville.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several parks offer complete RV connections. "Clean, rock covered sites, no real vegetation. Level, flat, and wide sites," reports Jeff about Buena Vista Wildlife Safari and RV Park.
Site selection strategy: Experienced campers recommend specific sites for optimal experiences. "Sites that we really like with lots of shade 40, 41. Booked 41 for early October," advises Dean H., who stayed at Live Oak Ridge.
Signal strength considerations: Cell coverage varies significantly across the region. "I had good enough service with AT&T to work with my phone's hotspot, but Verizon was pretty poor and even streaming videos was choppy, though you can call and text as usual," shares Cari E. about her stay at Live Oak Ridge.
